¹³ Be on your guard; stand firm^(A) in the faith; be courageous; be strong.^(B)

Life Worthy of the Gospel

²⁷ Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy^(A) of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm^(B) in the one Spirit,^[a] striving together^(C) as one for the faith of the gospel ²⁸ without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God.

⁷ For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid,^(A) but gives us power,^(B) love and self-discipline.

¹⁰ Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others,^(A) as faithful^(B) stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. ¹¹ If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God.^(C) If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides,^(D) so that in all things God may be praised^(E) through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.^(F)

Suffering for Being a Christian

¹² Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you^(G) to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. ¹³ But rejoice^(H) inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ,^(I) so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.^{(J) 14} If you are insulted because of the name of Christ,^(K) you are blessed,^(L) 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.^{(M) 17} For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household;^(N) and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?^{(O) 18} And,

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