⁹ “Then you will be handed over to be persecuted^(A) and put to death,^(B) and you will be hated by all nations because of me.^{(C) 10} At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, ¹¹ and many false prophets^(D) will appear and deceive many people.^{(E) 12} Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, ¹³ but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.^{(F) 14} And this gospel of the kingdom^(G) will be preached in the whole world^(H) as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.

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.