12
Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is
to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; 13
but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that
when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.
14 If you are reproached for the name of Christ,
blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.
On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified. 15
But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer,
or as a busybody in other people’s matters. 16
Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let
him glorify God in this matter. 17 For the time
has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins
with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel
of God? 18 Now
“ If the righteous one is scarcely
saved,
Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?"
19
Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their
souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator."