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However, they will have to render an account to him who stands ready to judge[a] the living and the dead.

And this is the reason why the gospel was preached even to the dead, so that, although they might be judged in the flesh like men, they might enjoy the life of God in the spirit.

Qualities of a Christian Community Waiting for Christ.[b] The end of all things is near. Therefore, lead disciplined lives and be watchful in prayer.

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Peter 4:5 Him who stands ready to judge: the New Testament assigns judgment to both the Father and the Son on the last day (see Jn 5:27; Acts 17:31). The living and the dead: i.e., those who are alive as well as those who have died when the last day arrives.
  2. 1 Peter 4:7 Living in expectation of the Lord’s Second Coming, Christian communities are characterized by a serious atmosphere, by relationships of responsibility and fraternity, and by concern for prayer and the Liturgy.