Following Christ

4 Therefore, since Christ suffered^[a] in the flesh,^[b] equip^[c] yourselves also with the same resolve^[d]—because the one who suffered in the flesh has finished^(A) with sin^[e]— ² in order to live the remaining time in the flesh, no longer for human desires,^[f] but for God’s will.^{(B) 3} For there has already been enough time spent in doing what the pagans choose to do:^[g] carrying on in unrestrained behavior, evil desires,^(C) drunkenness, orgies,^(D) carousing, and lawless idolatry. ⁴ So they are surprised that you don’t plunge with them into the same flood^[h] of wild living—and they slander 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,^(F) so that, although they might be judged by men in the fleshly^(G) realm,^[i] they might live^(H) by God in the spiritual realm.^[j]

End-Time Ethics

⁷ Now the end of all things is near;^(I) therefore, be serious and disciplined^(J) for prayer. ⁸ Above all, maintain an intense love^(K) for each other, since love covers a multitude of sins.^{(L)[k] 9} Be hospitable^(M) to one another without complaining. ¹⁰ Based on the gift each one has received, use it to serve others,^(N) as good managers of the varied grace of God. ¹¹ If anyone speaks, it should be as one who speaks God’s words; if anyone serves, it should be from the strength God provides,^(O) so that God may be glorified through Jesus Christ in everything. To Him belong the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.

Christian Suffering

¹² Dear friends, don’t be surprised when the fiery ordeal^[l] 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 the Messiah,^(Q) so that you may also rejoice with great joy at the revelation^(R) of His glory. ¹⁴ If you are ridiculed for the name of Christ,^(S) you are blessed, because the Spirit^(T) of glory and of God rests on you.^{[m] 15} None of you, however, should suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or a meddler.^{[n] 16} But if anyone suffers as a “Christian,” he should not be ashamed but should glorify God in having that name. 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 those who suffer according to God’s will should, while doing what is good, entrust themselves^(X) to a faithful Creator.