5 1Now I have something to say to the eldersa in your group. I am also an elder. I myself have seen Christ's sufferings. And I will share in the gloryb that will be shown to us. I beg you to 2take care of the group of people you are responsible for. They are God's flockc. Watch over that flock because you want to, not because you are forced to do it. That is how God wants it. Do it because you are happy to serve, not because you want money. 3Don't be like a ruler over those you are responsible for. But be good examples to them. 4Then when Christ the Ruling Shepherd comes, you will get a crownd - one that will be glorious and never lose its beauty.5Young people, I have something to say to you too. You should accept the authority of the elders. You should all have a humble attitude in dealing with each other.
8Control yourselves and be careful! The devil is your enemy, and he goes around like a roaring lion looking for someone to attack and eat. 9Refuse to follow the devil. Stand strong in your faith. You know that your brothers and sisters all over the world are having the same sufferings that you have. 10Yes, you will suffer for a short time. But after that, God will make everything right. He will make you strong. He will support you and keep you from falling. He is the God who gives all grace. He chose you to share in his glory in Christ. That glory wil continue forever. 11All power is his forever. Amenf. 13The church in Babylonh sends you greetings. They were chosen just as you were. Mark, my son in Christ, also sends his greetings. 14Give each other a special greetingi of love when you meet. Peace to all of you who are in Christ. aelders (New Testament) Men chosen to lead a local group of believers (church). Also called “overseers” and “pastors” (shepherds), they have the work of caring for God’s people. See Acts 14:23; 20:17, 28; Eph. 4:11; Php. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:1-7; Tit. 1:5-9; 1 Pet. 5:1-3. bglory A word that refers to the special qualities of God. Often it means brightness, referring to the way he appears to people. Sometimes it means majesty or power, referring to a kind of greatness that cannot be compared to anything in human experience. It can also include the ideas of wealth, honor, fame, or respect, especially in expressions of praise. c5:2 God’s flock God’s people. They are like a flock of sheep that need to be cared for. dcrown Literally, “wreath,” a ring of leaves or branches that was placed on the head of the winners of athletic contests to honor them. It was a symbol of victory and reward. eProverbs 3:34 fAmen A Hebrew word meaning “That’s right,” “True,” or “Yes.” It is used to express strong agreement with what has been said. ggrace The love and kindness that God shows in his complete willingness to give people favors he does not owe them and blessings they don’t deserve. h5:13 The church in Babylon Literally, “She in Babylon.” i5:14 special greeting Literally, “kiss.” |