Instructions to Elders
(1 Timothy 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9)

1As a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and a partaker of the glory {doxēs} to be revealed, I appeal to the elders [I appeal therefore to the elders]a among you⁺: 2Be shepherds of God’s {Theou} flock that is among you⁺, watching over themb not out of compulsion, but willingly, as God {Theon} would have you [but willingly];c not out of greed, but out of eagerness; 3not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you⁺ will receive the crown of glory {doxēs} that will never fade away.

Cast Your Cares on Him

5Young men, in the same way, submit yourselves to your elders. And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,

“God {Theos} opposes the proud,

but gives grace to the humble <Pro 3:34>.”d

6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s {Theou} mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you⁺. 7Cast all your⁺ anxiety on Him, because He cares for you⁺.

8Be sober-minded and alert. Your⁺ adversary the devil {diabolos} prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9Resist him, standing firm in your faith and in the knowledge that your⁺ brothers (and sisters) throughout the world are undergoing the same kinds of suffering.

Benediction and Farewell

10And after you have suffered for a little while, the God {Theos} of all grace, who has called you⁺ to His eternal glory {doxan} in Christ [in Christ Jesus],e will Himself restore you, secure you, strengthen you, and establish you. 11To Him be the power forever \to the ages/ and ever. Amen.

12Through Silvanus (Silas),f whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you⁺ briefly, encouraging you⁺ and testifying that this is the true grace of God {Theou}. Stand firm in it.

13The church in Babylon \She in Babylon/,g chosen together with you⁺, sends you⁺ greetings, as does my son Mark.

14Greet one another with a kiss of love {agapēs}.

Peace to all of you⁺ who are in Christ [Amen.].h