1 Peter 4
Stewards of God's Grace
1 Since therefore z Christ suffered in the flesh, 1 a arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for b whoever has suffered in the flesh c has ceased from sin, 2 d so as to live for e the rest of the time in the flesh f no longer for human passions but g for the will of God. 3 For the time that is past h suffices i 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 j debauchery, and k they malign you; 5 but they will give account to him who is ready l to judge the living and the dead. 6 For this is why m 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 n The end of all things is at hand; therefore o be self-controlled and sober-minded p for the sake of your prayers. 8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since q love covers a multitude of sins. 9 r Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 s As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, t as good stewards of God's varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks u oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves v by the strength that God supplies - in order that in everything w God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. x To him belong glory and y dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Suffering as a Christian
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at z the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice a insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad b when his glory is revealed. 14 c If you are insulted d for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory 2 and of God rests upon you. 15 But e let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or f as a meddler. 16 Yet e if anyone suffers as a g Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God d in that name. 17 For it is time for judgment h to begin at the household of God; and i if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who j do not obey the gospel of God?
18
And k "If the righteous is scarcely saved,
what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?" 3
19 Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will l entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.