1 Peter – Chapter 5

New Testament14 Verses

1The ancients therefore that are among you, I beseech who am myself also an ancient and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as also a partaker of that glory which is to be revealed in time to come:

2Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking care of it, not by constraint but willingly, according to God: not for filthy lucre's sake but voluntarily:

3Neither as lording it over the clergy but being made a pattern of the flock from the heart.

4And when the prince of pastors shall appear, you shall receive a never fading crown of glory.

5In like manner, ye young men, be subject to the ancients. And do you all insinuate humility one to another: for God resisteth the proud, but to the humble he giveth grace.

6Be you humbled therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in the time of visitation:

7Casting all your care upon him, for he hath care of you.

8Be sober and watch: because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, goeth about seeking whom he may devour.

9Whom resist ye, strong in faith: knowing that the same affliction befalls, your brethren who are in the world.

10But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory in Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a little, will himself perfect you and confirm you and establish you.

11To him be glory and empire, for ever and ever. Amen.

12By Sylvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I think, I have written briefly: beseeching and testifying that this is the true grace of God, wherein you stand.

13The church that is in Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you. And so doth my son, Mark.

14Salute one another with a holy kiss. Grace be to all you who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Reflection for Today

As you read 1 Peter Chapter 5, the Catholic Church invites you to encounter God's living Word through the lens of Sacred Tradition. The Catechism teaches that Scripture must be read "within the living Tradition of the whole Church" (CIC 113). The same Holy Spirit who inspired these words continues to guide the Church in understanding them today.

In Catholic theology, every passage of Scripture points ultimately to Christ and finds its fullest meaning in the Church's sacramental life. The Magisterium—the teaching authority of the Pope and bishops—guides the faithful in authentic interpretation. As you meditate on these verses, consider how the Church Fathers and saints have understood them.

Through lectio divina—the ancient Catholic practice of prayerful reading—allow these words to transform your mind and heart, drawing you deeper into communion with Christ and His Church. Ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate these verses and show you how they call you to deeper faith, hope, and love.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

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