1 Peter 4:12-19

International Standard Version

Suffering as a Christian

¹² Dear friends, do not be surprised by the fiery ordeal that is taking place among you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. ¹³ Instead, because you are participating in the sufferings of the Messiah,^[a] keep on rejoicing, so that you may be glad and shout for joy when his glory is revealed. ¹⁴ If you are insulted because of the name of the Messiah,^[b] you are blessed, for the glorious Spirit of God is resting on you.^[c]

¹⁵ Of course, none of you should suffer for being a murderer, thief, criminal, or troublemaker. ¹⁶ But if you suffer for being a Christian, do not feel ashamed, but glorify God with that name. ¹⁷ For the time has come for judgment to begin with the household of God. And if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who refuse to obey the gospel of God?

¹⁹ So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should entrust their souls to their faithful Creator and continue to do what is good.