Following Christ

4 Therefore, since Christ suffered^[a] in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same understanding^[b]—because the one who suffers in the flesh is finished^(A) with sin^[c]— ² in order to live the remaining time in the flesh no longer for human desires, but for God’s will.^{(B) 3} For there has already been enough time spent in doing what the Gentiles choose to do: carrying on in unrestrained behavior, evil desires,^(C) drunkenness, orgies,^(D) carousing, and lawless idolatry. ⁴ They are surprised that you don’t join them in the same flood of wild living—and they slander^[d] you. ⁵ They will give an account to the one who stands ready to judge the living and the dead.^{(E) 6} For this reason the gospel was also preached to those who are now dead,^[e](F) so that, although they might be judged in the flesh according to human standards,^(G) they might live^(H) in the spirit according to God’s standards.

End-Time Ethics

⁷ The end of all things is near;^(I) therefore, be alert and sober-minded^(J) for prayer. ⁸ Above all, maintain constant love^(K) for one another, since love covers a multitude of sins.^{[f](L) 9} Be hospitable^(M) to one another without complaining. ¹⁰ Just as each one has received a gift, use it to serve others,^(N) as good stewards of the varied grace of God. ¹¹ If anyone speaks, let it be as one who speaks God’s words; if anyone serves, let it be from the strength God provides,^(O) so that God may be glorified through Jesus Christ in everything. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.

Christian Suffering

¹² Dear friends, don’t be surprised when the fiery ordeal comes among you to test you, as if something unusual were happening to you.^{(P) 13} Instead, rejoice as you share in the sufferings of Christ,^(Q) so that you may also rejoice with great joy when his glory is revealed.^{(R) 14} If you are ridiculed for the name of Christ,^(S) you are blessed, because the Spirit^(T) of glory and of God^[g] rests on you. ¹⁵ Let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or a meddler.^{[h] 16} But if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed but let him glorify God in having that name.^{[i] 17} For the time has come for judgment^(U) to begin with God’s household,^(V) and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who disobey the gospel of God?

¹⁹ So then, let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust themselves^(X) to a faithful Creator while doing what is good.