²⁰ But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.^{(A) 21} To this^(B) you were called,^(C) because Christ suffered for you,^(D) leaving you an example,^(E) that you should follow in his steps.

²³ When they hurled their insults at him,^(H) he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats.^(I) Instead, he entrusted himself^(J) to him who judges justly.^{(K) 24} “He himself bore our sins”^(L) in his body on the cross,^(M) so that we might die to sins^(N) and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.”^{(O) 25} For “you were like sheep going astray,”^[b](P) but now you have returned to the Shepherd^(Q) and Overseer of your souls.^(R)

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.