1 Peter Chapter 5

In the last chapter of 1 Peter, chapter 5, he exhorted the elders to shepherd the flock of Christ as an example, not because they have to, or for financial gain, or so they can have power over people. He reminded them that Jesus is the Chief Shepherd over them, and He will give an unfading crown of glory to those who are faithful. He reminded the young men to honor their elders, and then he reminded all believers to clothe ourselves with humility. The picture image is to put on an apron to serve others. Peter quoted from Proverbs 3:34 which said, "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble." When we humble ourselves to God, we can cast all of our cares upon Him because he cares for us (vs. 6-7). Peter warned us that we have an adversary, the Devil who wants to devour us, so we need to be on our guard, but we are also to remember that we are not alone in our attacks, for believers all over the world also suffer. While we wait for Christ's return, God is with us as He makes us complete. He will guide us, strengthen us, and will keep us steadfast until His return. Silas brought the letter to the churches in modern day Turkey. The phrase, "She who is in Babylon," is traditionally interpreted as the church in Rome, and Mark is thought to be John Mark, the writer of the gospel of  Mark. They were to greet one another with a kiss of love, and then Peter ended his letter with a blessing of peace.