The elect exiles suffered greatly for their faith in Christ which Peter admonished was not to surprise them as though something strange were happening (4:12). In sharing Christ’s sufferings, they were to rejoice (4:13). When insulted for the name of Christ, they were blessed (4:14). While suffering according to God’s will, they were to entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good (4:19). But those so persecuted were also to be cared for by their shepherds. Peter’s exhortation to the elders to shepherd the flock of God among them is linked to the preceding passage and enjoins willing and eager pastoral care as humble examples to the flock in ministering to them amidst their sanctifying suffering.