1 I warn and counsel the elders among you (the pastors and spiritual guides of the church) as a fellow elder and as an eyewitness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a sharer in the glory (the honor and splendor) that is to be revealed (disclosed, unfolded):

2 T end (nurture, guard, guide, and fold) the flock of God that is, not by coercion or constraint, but willingly; not dishonorably motivated by the advantages and profits, but eagerly and cheerfully;

3 N ot domineering over those in your charge, but being examples (patterns and models of Christian living) to the flock (the congregation).

4 A nd when the Chief Shepherd is revealed, you will win the conqueror’s crown of glory.

5 L ikewise, you who are younger and of lesser rank, be subject to the elders (the ministers and spiritual guides of the church)—. Clothe (apron) yourselves, all of you, with humility '> so that its covering cannot possibly be stripped from you, with freedom from pride and arrogance] toward one another. For God sets Himself against the proud (the insolent, the overbearing, the disdainful, the presumptuous, the boastful)—, but gives grace (favor, blessing) to the humble.

6 T herefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you,

7 C asting the whole of your care '> once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully.

8 B e well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring '> in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour.

9 W ithstand him; be firm in faith, knowing that the same ( identical) sufferings are appointed to your brotherhood (the whole body of Christians) throughout the world.

10 A nd after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, Who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will Himself complete and make you what you ought to be, establish and ground you securely, and strengthen, and settle you.

11 T o Him be the dominion (power, authority, rule) forever and ever. Amen (so be it).

12 B y Silvanus, a true (loyal, consistent, incorruptible) brother, as I consider him, I have written briefly to you, to counsel and urge and stimulate and to declare that this is the true grace (the undeserved favor) of God. Be steadfast and persevere in it.

13 S he in Babylon, elect (chosen) with, sends you greetings, and my son (disciple) Mark.

14 S alute one another with a kiss of love. To all of you that are in Christ Jesus (the Messiah), may there be peace ( every kind of peace and blessing, especially peace with God, and freedom from fears, agitating passions, and moral conflicts). Amen (so be it).