51 Therefore , I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ , and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed , 2 shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion , but voluntarily , according to the will of God ; and not for sordid gain , but with eagerness ; 3 nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge , but proving to be examples to the flock . 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears , you will receive the unfading crown of glory .
5 You younger men , likewise , be subject to your elders ; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another , for GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD , BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE . 6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God , that He may exalt you at the proper time , 7 casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.
8 Be of sober spirit, be on the alert . Your adversary , the devil , prowls around like a roaring lion , seeking someone to devour . 9 But resist him, firm in your faith , knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world .
10 After you have suffered for a little while , the God of all grace , who called you to His eternal glory in Christ , will Himself perfect , confirm , strengthen and establish you. 11 To Him be dominion forever and ever . Amen .
12 Through Silvanus , our faithful brother (for so I regard him), I have written to you briefly , exhorting and testifying that this is the true grace of God . Stand firm in it! 13 She who is in Babylon , chosen together with you, sends you greetings , and so does my son , Mark . 14 Greet one another with a kiss of love . Peace be to you all who are in Christ .
