Dear friends, do not be astonished that a trial by fire is occurring among you, as though something strange were happening to you.

Give a shepherd’s care to God’s flock among you, exercising oversight not merely as a duty but willingly under God’s direction, not for shameful profit but eagerly.

Greet one another with a loving kiss. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.

They were shown that they were serving not themselves but you, in regard to the things now announced to you through those who proclaimed the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven – things angels long to catch a glimpse of.

according to the foreknowledge of God the Father by being set apart by the Spirit for obedience and for sprinkling with Jesus Christ’s blood. May grace and peace be yours in full measure!

Therefore, get your minds ready for action by being fully sober, and set your hope completely on the grace that will be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed.

So you who believe see his value, but for those who do not believe, the stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,

For to this you were called, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving an example for you to follow in his steps.

So as your fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings and as one who shares in the glory that will be revealed, I urge the elders among you:

But set Christ apart as Lord in your hearts and always be ready to give an answer to anyone who asks about the hope you possess.

Through Silvanus, whom I know to be a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, in order to encourage you and testify that this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it.