Peter makes a final application to the elders of the church. He reminds them he is also an elder, and a witness of Christ’s sufferings and His glorious transfiguration. Church elders are not to lead with bad motives to exploit the church. They are instead to shepherd the church with the right motives as good examples of servant leaders. Then when Christ comes they have the promise that He will greatly reward them.

Church members are to submit to the church elders and humbly live in submission to one another. God gives favor to humble people. God will lift us up if we humble ourselves. God cares for us; we can throw away our fears and worries. We can live humbly and harmoniously by God’s power.

Peter exhorts us to keep our wits about us. We need to be mentally fit, to guard ourselves against Satan’s temptations. Satan is like a dangerous lion hunting for us to destroy us. We can withstand his attacks by having strong faith. We can take courage that we aren’t alone in our suffering; all faithful Christians suffer for their faith. But it is to God’s purpose.

Our suffering is temporary. God is still in control. He has brought us into His favor. He is growing us, building us up, preparing us through our suffering. He is sovereign over everything.

Peter concludes this letter by commending Silvanus for carrying his letter to his readers. He testifies that its contents are about God’s grace in which his readers are to stand firm. Greetings are given and exhorted as the letter ends with a prayer for peace among believers.