Bible In Poetry: Gospel Of St. Peter 1 (Chapter 5) Poem by Dr John Celes

The Elders and Young Men:

A fellow elder to elders,
A witness of Christ’s sufferings,
And one who’ll share glory to come,
I exhort you to all behold:

‘Be shepherds of the flock of God,
Under your care as overseers-
Not just because you’ve been compelled,
But that you’re willing as God wants.
Not after money but to serve;
Not lording o’er entrusted sheep,
Be examples unto your flock.
And when the Chief Shepherd appears,
You will be all in joyful tears,
Receiving crown of glory then.’

‘Be submissive to old, young men;
Be clothed in humility then;
God does not like the proud brethren,
But gives His grace to humble men! ’

‘Humble yourself under God’s hand,
And He will lift you in His time!
Cast off your anxieties on Him,
Because He is our caring God.’

‘Control your self and be alert;
Like roaring lions, devils prowl,
In search of someone to devour;
Stand firm in faith and resist them;
You know the world’s brethren suffer,
From all the devils’ overtures.’

‘The God of grace who called you all,
To live in glory eternal,
In Christ, after your strife awhile,
Will Himself make you strong and firm.
To Him be power, forever.’
Amen.

Final Greetings:

‘I have written to you in brief,
With faithful Silas brother’s help;
I testify the grace, that’s true
Of God, that encourages you, ’

‘Greet each other with love-kisses;
Peace be upon you in Christ’s name.
From Babylon and my son, Mark,
I send you greetings- Stand steadfast! ’

Copyright by Dr John Celes 6-22-2007