Suffering for Being a Christian

¹² Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you^(A) to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. ¹³ But rejoice^(B) inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ,^(C) so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.^{(D) 14} If you are insulted because of the name of Christ,^(E) you are blessed,^(F) for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. ¹⁵ If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. ¹⁶ However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.^{(G) 17} For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household;^(H) and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?^{(I) 18} And,

¹⁹ So then, those who suffer according to God’s will^(K) should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.

To the Elders and the Flock

5 To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder^(L) and a witness^(M) of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed:^{(N) 2} Be shepherds of God’s flock^(O) that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be;^(P) not pursuing dishonest gain,^(Q) but eager to serve; ³ not lording it over^(R) those entrusted to you, but being examples^(S) to the flock. ⁴ And when the Chief Shepherd^(T) appears, you will receive the crown of glory^(U) that will never fade away.^(V)

⁵ In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves^(W) to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility^(X) toward one another, because,

⁶ Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.^{(Z) 7} Cast all your anxiety on him^(AA) because he cares for you.^(AB)

⁸ Be alert and of sober mind.^(AC) Your enemy the devil prowls around^(AD) like a roaring lion^(AE) looking for someone to devour. ⁹ Resist him,^(AF) standing firm in the faith,^(AG) because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.^(AH)

¹⁰ And the God of all grace, who called you^(AI) to his eternal glory^(AJ) in Christ, after you have suffered a little while,^(AK) will himself restore you and make you strong,^(AL) firm and steadfast. ¹¹ To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.^(AM)