1 Peter
So then, since Messiah suffered in his body, arm yourselves with the
same mindset, because the one who has suffered in his body has finished with
sin;
so that you live the rest of your time in this life not pursuing human
desires, but the will of God.
For you have already spent enough of your past
time doing what non-believers desire, in debauchery, lusts, drunkenness,
carousing, drinking binges, and abominable idolatries.
They are shocked that
you no longer rush with them into the same flood of evil, and they malign
you.
They will have to give an account to Him who stands ready to judge the
living and the dead.
For this purpose the Gospel has been preached to those
who are now dead, so that though they were judged in the flesh by human
standards, they may live to God in the spirit.
The end of all things is approaching, so be clear-headed and self-controlled for prayer.
Most importantly, be earnest in your love for one
another, because love covers a multitude of sins.
Be hospitable to one
another without grumbling.
As each one has received a gift, use it to serve
one another, as good managers of the grace of God in its various forms.
Whoever speaks, speak the words of God; whoever serves, serve
with the strength which God supplies, so that in everything God may be
glorified through Jesus Messiah. To Him belong the glory and the dominion to the ages of the ages. Amen.
Dear friends, do not be shocked at the trial by fire which has come on
you to test you, as though some strange thing were happening to you.
But
rejoice to the extent that you share in Messiah’s sufferings, so that at the
revelation of his glory you may also rejoice with the greatest joy.
If you
are insulted for the name and agenda of Messiah, you are blessed, because the spirit of glory and of God rests on you.
Let none of you suffer as a
murderer, thief, criminal, or meddler in others’ affairs.
But if
you suffer for being a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God by
bearing that identity.
For the time has arrived for judgment to begin with the
household of God, and if it starts with us, what will be the end for those who
refuse to obey God’s Gospel?
“If it is with difficulty that the
upright are saved, what will become of the ungodly and sinners?”
So then
those who suffer in accord with the will of God should entrust themselves to the
faithful Creator, as they continue to do what is right.
1 Peter