1 Peter 4
“Since therefore CHRIST SUFFERED IN THE FLESH, arm yourselves with the
same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has
ceased from sin,
2 so as to
live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human
passions but for the will of GOD.
3 For the
time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do,
living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and
lawless idolatry.
4 With
respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood
of debauchery, and they malign you;
5 but they
will give account to HIM
WHO IS READY TO JUDGE THE LIVING AND THE DEAD.
6 For this
is why THE GOSPEL
was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the
way people are, they might live in the spirit the way GOD does.
7 The end of all things is
at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake
of your prayers.
8 Above
all, keep loving one another earnestly, since LOVE covers a multitude of sins.
9 Show
hospitality to one another without grumbling.
10 As each
has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of GOD's varied grace:
11 whoever
speaks, as one who speaks oracles of GOD;
whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that GOD
supplies—in order that in everything GOD may be glorified
through JESUS CHRIST.
TO
HIM BELONG GLORY AND DOMINION FOREVER AND EVER.
Amen.
Suffering as a Christian
12 Beloved,
do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you,
as though something strange were happening to you.
13 But
rejoice insofar as you share CHRIST's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be
glad when HIS GLORY
IS REVEALED.
14 If you are insulted for the name of CHRIST, you are
blessed, because THE SPIRIT OF GLORY AND OF GOD rests upon you.
15 But let
none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler.
16 Yet if
anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify
GOD in that name.
17 For it
is time for judgment to begin at the household of GOD;
and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those
who do not obey THE
GOSPEL OF GOD?
18 And
‘If the righteous is
scarcely saved,
what
will become of the ungodly and the sinner?’
19 Therefore
let those who suffer according to GOD's will entrust their souls to A FAITHFUL CREATOR
while doing good.”
