¶ The seniors which are among you I exhort, which am also an senior, and a witness of the afflictions of Christ, and also a part taker of the glory that shall be opened: see that ye feed Christe's flock, which is among you, taking the oversight of them, not as though ye were compelled thereto: but willingly: Not for the desire of filthy lucre: but of a good mind. Not as though ye were lords over the parishes: but that ye be an ensample to the flock. And when the chief shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive an incorruptible crown of glory.
¶ Likewise ye younger submit your selves unto the elder. Submit yourselves every man, one to another. Knit yourselves together in lowliness of mind. For God resisteth the proud and giveth grace to the humble. Submit your selves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you, when the time is come. Cast all your care to him: for he careth for you.
¶ Be sober and watch, for your adversary the devil as a roaring lion walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: whom resist steadfast in the faith, remembering that ye do but fulfil the same afflictions which are appointed to your brethren that are in the world. The God of all grace, which called you unto his eternal glory by Christ Iesus, shall his own self after a little affliction make you perfect: shall settle, strengthe, and establishe you. To him be glory and dominion for ever, and while the world endureth Amen.
¶ By Silvanus a faithful brother unto you (as I suppose) have I written brevely, exhorting and testifying how that this is the true grace of God, wherein ye stand. The congregation that is gathered together in Babylon, saluteth you, and Marcus my son. Greet ye one another with the kiss of love. Peace be with you all which are in Christ Iesus, Amen.
© Faith of God
William Tyndale 1526