1 Peter 4

1So, since Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same way of thinking, because whoever has suffered in the flesh is finished with sin,

2so that you no longer live the rest of your time in the flesh for human desires, but for the will of God.

3For you have spent enough time in the past doing what the Gentiles like to do: living in sensuality, lust, drunkenness, wild parties, drinking bouts, and lawless idolatry.

4They are surprised that you no longer join them in the same flood of reckless living, and they slander you.

5But they will have to give an account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

6For this is why the gospel was proclaimed even to those who are dead, so that although they were judged in the flesh in the eyes of people, they might live in the spirit in the eyes of God.

7The end of all things is near. So be clear-minded and self-controlled, so that you can pray.

8Above all, keep loving one another deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins.

9Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.

10Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s grace in its many forms.

11Whoever speaks should speak as one who speaks the very words of God. Whoever serves should serve with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.

12Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.

13But rejoice to the extent that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.

14If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory, the Spirit of God, rests on you.

15For none of you should suffer as a murderer or thief or evildoer, or as a meddler.

16But if anyone suffers as a Christian, they should not be ashamed, but should glorify God because they bear that name.

17For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God. And if it begins first with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?

18And if it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?

19So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should entrust their souls to a faithful Creator and continue to do good.