⁴² Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him.^(A) But because of the Pharisees^(B) they would not openly acknowledge their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue;^(C)

²² His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders,^(A) who already had decided that anyone who acknowledged that Jesus was the Messiah would be put out^(B) of the synagogue.^(C)

¹³ But no one would say anything publicly about him for fear of the leaders.^(A)

³² “Whoever acknowledges me before others,^(A) I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven.

¹⁵ If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God,^(A) God lives in them and they in God.^(B)

² This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh^(A) is from God,^(B)

Suffering for Being a Christian

¹² Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you^(A) to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. ¹³ But rejoice^(B) inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ,^(C) so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.^{(D) 14} If you are insulted because of the name of Christ,^(E) you are blessed,^(F) for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. ¹⁵ If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. ¹⁶ However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.^(G)