1 Peter 5 : Easy-to-Read Version
The Flock of God
5 1Now I have something to say to the elders* in your group. I am also an elder. I myself have seen Christ's sufferings. And I will share in the glory that will be shown to us. I beg you to 2take care of the group of people that you are responsible for. They are God's flock.* 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 people you are responsible for. But be good examples to those people. 4Then when the Ruling Shepherd (Christ) comes, you will get a crown. That crown will be very glorious, and it will never lose its beauty. 5Young men, I have something to say to you, too. You should accept the authority of the elders.* All of you should be very humble with each other. "God is against the proud people. But he gives grace (kindness) to the humble people." Proverbs 3:34
6So be humble under God's powerful hand. Then he will lift you up when the right time comes. 7Give all your worries to him, because he cares for you. 8Control yourselves and be careful! The devil is your enemy. And he goes around like a roaring lion looking for some person to 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 that gives all grace (kindness). He called you to share in his glory in Christ. That glory will continue forever. 11All power is his forever and ever. Amen.
Final Greetings
12Silas will bring this letter to you. I know that he is a faithful brother [in Christ]. I wrote this short letter to encourage you. I wanted to tell you that this is the true grace (kindness) of God. Stand strong in that grace. 13The church in Babylon* says hello to you. Those people were chosen the same as you. Mark, my son [in Christ], also says hello. 14Give each other a kiss of love when you meet. Peace to all of you that are in Christ.
elders A group of men chosen to lead a church. Also called "overseers" and "pastors" (shepherds), they have the work of caring for God's people (Acts 20:28; Eph. 4:11; Tit. 1:7,9). God's flock God's people. They are like a flock (group) of sheep that need to be cared for. church in Babylon Literally, "She in Babylon."