Chapter III: Trials, Admonitions to Presbyters, Etc

1 [4:12]BELOVED, think not strange of the fiery trial which is to try you, as if some strange thing happened to you, [4:13]but as you partake of the sufferings of Christ rejoice, that you may also rejoice exulting at the revelation of his glory. [4:14]If you are reproached for the name of Christ, happy are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. [4:15]But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or an evil doer, or as a meddler in other men's affairs; [4:16]but as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, let him glorify God on this account. [4:17]For it is time for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it first begins with us, what will the end be of those that obey not the gospel of God? [4:18]And if the righteous man is scarcely saved, where will the ungodly and the sinner appear? [4:19]Let those therefore who suffer by the will of God, commit their souls to him in well doing as a faithful creator.

2 [5:1]The elders among you I exhort, who am a co-elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker of the glory to be revealed; [5:2]feed the flock of God which is among you, not by constraint but willingly, not for base gain but of a ready mind, [5:3]not as having a lordship over God's inheritance but being examples to the flock; [5:4]and when the chief shepherd shall appear, you shall receive an unfading crown of glory.

3 [5:5]Let the younger in like manner be subject to the elder, and do you all be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility; for God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. [5:6]Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time; [5:7]casting all your care upon him, for he cares for you.

4 [5:8]Be sober, be watchful. Your adversary the devil goes about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour; [5:9]whom resist, firm in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are accomplished by your brothers in the world. [5:10]And may the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ Jesus, when you have suffered a little while, himself make you perfect, confirm, strengthen, establish you. [5:11]To him be the glory and the power for ever; amen.

5 [5:12]I have written to you in a few words by Silvanus [Silas], a faithful brother as I suppose, exhorting you, and testifying that this is the true grace of God in which you stand. [5:13]The co-elect [church] at Babylon salutes you, and Mark my son. [5:14]Salute one another with a kiss of love. Peace be to you all in Christ.

SECOND EPISTLE OF PETER.

BABYLON, A.D. 67.