¹⁶ However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.^(A)

¹⁷ For it is better, if it is God’s will,^(A) to suffer for doing good^(B) than for doing evil. ¹⁸ For Christ also suffered once^(C) for sins,^(D) the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.^(E) He was put to death in the body^(F) but made alive in the Spirit.^(G)

Trials and Temptations

² Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,^[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds,^{(A) 3} because you know that the testing of your faith^(B) produces perseverance.^{(C) 4} Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature^(D) and complete, not lacking anything.

²⁹ For it has been granted to you^(A) on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer^(B) for him,

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

¹² That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame,^(A) because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard^(B) what I have entrusted to him until that day.^(C)

⁴¹ The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing^(A) because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.^(B)

²⁰ I eagerly expect^(A) and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage^(B) so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body,^(C) whether by life or by death.^(D)

¹³ I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.

A Prayer for the Ephesians

¹⁴ For this reason I kneel^(A) before the Father, ¹⁵ from whom every family^[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name.