1 Peter 4:6-17

English Standard Version

⁶For this is why ^(A)the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does.

⁷^(B)The end of all things is at hand; therefore ^(C)be self-controlled and sober-minded ^(D)for the sake of your prayers. ⁸Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since ^(E)love covers a multitude of sins. ⁹^(F)Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. ¹⁰^(G)As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, ^(H)as good stewards of God's varied grace: ¹¹whoever speaks, as one who speaks ^(I)oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves ^(J)by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything ^(K)God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. ^(L)To him belong glory and ^(M)dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Suffering as a Christian

¹²Beloved, do not be surprised at ^(N)the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. ¹³But rejoice ^(O)insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad ^(P)when his glory is revealed. ¹⁴^(Q)If you are insulted ^(R)for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory^[a] and of God rests upon you. ¹⁵But ^(S)let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or ^(T)as a meddler. ¹⁶Yet ^(U)if anyone suffers as a ^(V)Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God ^(W)in that name. ¹⁷For it is time for judgment ^(X)to begin at the household of God; and ^(Y)if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who ^(Z)do not obey the gospel of God?