1 Peter 4:12
New International Version
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.

New Living Translation
Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you.

English Standard Version
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.

Berean Standard Bible
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you.

Berean Literal Bible
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fire among you taking place for a trial to you, as if a strange thing were happening to you.

King James Bible
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:

New King James Version
Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you;

New American Standard Bible
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though something strange were happening to you;

NASB 1995
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you;

NASB 1977
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you;

Legacy Standard Bible
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you.

Amplified Bible
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal which is taking place to test you [that is, to test the quality of your faith], as though something strange or unusual were happening to you.

Christian Standard Bible
Dear friends, don’t be surprised when the fiery ordeal comes among you to test you, as if something unusual were happening to you.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Dear friends, don’t be surprised when the fiery ordeal comes among you to test you as if something unusual were happening to you.

American Standard Version
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial among you, which cometh upon you to prove you, as though a strange thing happened unto you:

Contemporary English Version
Dear friends, don't be surprised or shocked that you are going through testing that is like walking through fire.

English Revised Version
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial among you, which cometh upon you to prove you, as though a strange thing happened unto you:

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Dear friends, don't be surprised by the fiery troubles that are coming in order to test you. Don't feel as though something strange is happening to you,

Good News Translation
My dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful test you are suffering, as though something unusual were happening to you.

International Standard Version
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.

Majority Standard Bible
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you.

NET Bible
Dear friends, do not be astonished that a trial by fire is occurring among you, as though something strange were happening to you.

New Heart English Bible
Beloved, do not be astonished at the fiery trial which has come upon you, to test you, as though a strange thing happened to you.

Webster's Bible Translation
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you:

Weymouth New Testament
Dear friends, do not be surprised at finding that that scorching flame of persecution is raging among you to put you to the test--as though some surprising thing were accidentally happening to you.

World English Bible
Beloved, don’t be astonished at the fiery trial which has come upon you to test you, as though a strange thing happened to you.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
Beloved, do not think it strange at the fiery suffering among you that is coming to try you, as if a strange thing were happening to you,

Berean Literal Bible
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fire among you taking place for a trial to you, as if a strange thing were happening to you.

Young's Literal Translation
Beloved, think it not strange at the fiery suffering among you that is coming to try you, as if a strange thing were happening to you,

Smith's Literal Translation
Dearly beloved, be not astonished at the refining of fire in you, being for trial to you, as a strange thing happening to you:
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Dearly beloved, think not strange the burning heat which is to try you, as if some new thing happened to you;

Catholic Public Domain Version
Most beloved, do not choose to sojourn in the passion which is a temptation to you, as if something new might happen to you.

New American Bible
Beloved, do not be surprised that a trial by fire is occurring among you, as if something strange were happening to you.

New Revised Standard Version
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that is taking place among you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
My beloved, do not think it strange at the trials that come upon you, as though some strange thing happened to you: because these things are to prove you.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
Beloved, do not be astonished at the temptations that will come upon you, as if something strange happened to you, for they are for your proving.
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
Beloved, be not amazed at the fiery trial that has come on you to try you, as if some strange thing had happened to you.

Godbey New Testament
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial among you, coming upon you unto your testing: as some strange thing happening to you:

Haweis New Testament
Beloved, be not amazed at the fiery trial among you which is to bring you to the test, as though something strange happened to you;

Mace New Testament
My dear brethren, don't be surpriz'd at your being brought as it were to the test of fire; as if some strange thing had happen'd to you.

Weymouth New Testament
Dear friends, do not be surprised at finding that that scorching flame of persecution is raging among you to put you to the test--as though some surprising thing were accidentally happening to you.

Worrell New Testament
Beloved, be not surprised at the fiery-test taking place among you to prove you, as though a strange thing happened to you;

Worsley New Testament
Beloved, be not surprised at the fiery trial coming upon you, which is to try you, as if some strange thing befel you:

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Suffering as Christians
11If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the words of God. If anyone serves, he should serve with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. 12Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed at the revelation of His glory.…

Cross References
James 1:2-4
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, / because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. / Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

Romans 8:17-18
And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him. / I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us.

2 Timothy 3:12
Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,

John 15:18-20
If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first. / If you were of the world, it would love you as its own. Instead, the world hates you, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. / Remember the word that I spoke to you: ‘No servant is greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you as well; if they kept My word, they will keep yours as well.

Matthew 5:11-12
Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. / Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you.

1 Peter 1:6-7
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in various trials / so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

2 Corinthians 4:17
For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory that is far beyond comparison.

Philippians 1:29
For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him,

Hebrews 12:7-11
Endure suffering as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? / If you do not experience discipline like everyone else, then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. / Furthermore, we have all had earthly fathers who disciplined us, and we respected them. Should we not much more submit to the Father of our spirits and live? ...

Acts 14:22
strengthening the souls of the disciples and encouraging them to continue in the faith. “We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said.

1 Thessalonians 3:3-4
so that none of you would be shaken by these trials. For you know that we are destined for this. / Indeed, when we were with you, we kept warning you that we would suffer persecution; and as you know, it has come to pass.

Matthew 10:22
You will be hated by everyone because of My name, but the one who perseveres to the end will be saved.

John 16:33
I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!”

2 Corinthians 1:5-7
For just as the sufferings of Christ overflow to us, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. / If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which accomplishes in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we experience. / And our hope for you is sure, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you will share in our comfort.

Isaiah 48:10
See, I have refined you, but not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.


Treasury of Scripture

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you:

think.

1 Peter 4:4
Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:

Isaiah 28:21
For the LORD shall rise up as in mount Perazim, he shall be wroth as in the valley of Gibeon, that he may do his work, his strange work; and bring to pass his act, his strange act.

the fiery.

1 Peter 1:7
That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

Daniel 11:35
And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is yet for a time appointed.

1 Corinthians 3:13
Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.

as.

1 Peter 5:9
Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

1 Corinthians 10:13
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

1 Thessalonians 3:2-4
And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith: …

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1 Peter 4
1. He exhorts them to cease from sin and live fore God,
12. and comforts them against persecution.














Beloved
The term "Beloved" is translated from the Greek word "ἀγαπητοί" (agapetoi), which is derived from "ἀγάπη" (agape), meaning divine love. This word is often used in the New Testament to address fellow believers, emphasizing their identity as cherished members of God's family. It reflects the deep, unconditional love that God has for His children and sets the tone for the exhortation that follows. In a historical context, this term would have been a comforting reminder to early Christians of their value and identity in Christ, especially amidst persecution.

do not be surprised
The phrase "do not be surprised" comes from the Greek "μὴ ξενίζεσθε" (mē xenizesthe), which implies not being caught off guard or astonished. The early Christians were often subjected to persecution and trials, and Peter is encouraging them to expect such challenges as a normal part of their faith journey. This instruction is rooted in the understanding that suffering for Christ is a shared experience among believers, aligning with Jesus' teachings that His followers would face tribulation in the world (John 16:33).

at the fiery trial
"Fiery trial" is translated from "τῇ ἐν ὑμῖν πυρώσει" (tē en hymin pyrōsei), with "πύρωσις" (pyrosis) meaning a burning or refining process. This metaphor suggests a process of purification, akin to the refining of metals. Historically, fire was used to remove impurities from gold and silver, symbolizing how trials serve to purify and strengthen the faith of believers. This imagery would resonate with Peter's audience, who were familiar with the refining process and its purpose of producing something pure and valuable.

that has come upon you
The phrase "that has come upon you" is from "πρὸς πειρασμὸν ὑμῖν γινομένη" (pros peirasmon hymin ginomenē), indicating an event or circumstance that is occurring. The use of the present participle "γινομένη" (ginomenē) suggests an ongoing process, emphasizing that trials are not a one-time event but a continual aspect of the Christian life. This reflects the early church's experience of persistent persecution and the need for steadfastness in faith.

as though something strange
"As though something strange" is derived from "ὡς ξένου" (hōs xenou), with "ξένου" (xenou) meaning foreign or alien. Peter is reminding believers that trials should not be viewed as unexpected or unusual. This perspective is rooted in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, who consistently warned that following Christ would entail suffering. The early Christians, therefore, were to see trials as an integral part of their spiritual journey, not as an anomaly.

were happening to you
The phrase "were happening to you" comes from "συμβαίνοντος ὑμῖν" (symbainontos hymin), with "συμβαίνοντος" (symbainontos) meaning to happen or occur. This conveys the idea that trials are events that God allows for a purpose. In the broader scriptural context, such experiences are seen as opportunities for growth, testing, and proving one's faith. The early church understood that these trials were not random but were under God's sovereign control, serving His greater purpose in their lives.

(12-19) EXHORTATION TO COURAGE AND STEADFASTNESS IN PERSECUTION.--All ought to be prepared for persecution. It is a blessed and glorious thing to have to bear it. A criminal's death and a Christian martyrdom are the exact opposites of each other. Vengeance is speedily coming.

(12) Beloved.--See Note on 1Peter 2:11.

Think it not strange.--The same word as in 1Peter 4:4. It means, literally, to feel like people in a strange country, lost and bewildered. It is. further explained by the clause "as though some strange thing were (by bad luck) happening unto you." These Hebrew Christians felt at first it was not what was to be expected, that those who attached themselves to the Messiah should have a life of sorrow and persecution in the world.

The fiery trial which is to try you.--This rendering is not only slovenly, but conveys a false impression, for the fiery trial was not future, but actually present. Literally it runs, Be not bewildered at the conflagration among you taking place for a trial to you. Already, then, the Asiatic Christians are enduring a fierce persecution. The word which describes it is only found besides in Revelation 18:9; Revelation 18:18, "burning." (Comp. 1Peter 1:7.) . . .

Verse 12. - Beloved, thank it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you; literally, be not astonished at the burning among you, which is coming to you for a trial, as though a strange thing were happening to you. St. Peter returns to the sufferings of his readers. The address, "beloved," as in 1 Peter 2:11, shows the depth of his sympathy with them. He resumes the thought of 1 Peter 1:7; the persecution is a burning, a fiery furnace, which is being kindled among them for a trial, to try the strength of their faith. The present participles imply that the persecution was already beginning; the word πύρωσις, a burning (see Revelation 18:9, 18), shows the severity. St. Peter tells them its meaning: it was to prove them; it would turn to their good. Persecution was not to be regarded as a strange thing. The Lord had foretold its coming. St. Paul, in his first visit to Asia Minor, had warned them that "we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God." (On the word ξένιζεσθαι, see note on ver. 4.) The thing was not strange; they were not to count it as strange; they must learn, so to speak, to acclimatize themselves to it; it would brace their energies and strengthen their faith.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
Beloved,
Ἀγαπητοί (Agapētoi)
Adjective - Vocative Masculine Plural
Strong's 27: From agapao; beloved.

{do} not
μὴ (mē)
Adverb
Strong's 3361: Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether.

be surprised at
ξενίζεσθε (xenizesthe)
Verb - Present Imperative Middle or Passive - 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 3579: (a) I entertain a stranger, (b) I startle, bewilder. From xenos; to be a host; by implication, be strange.

the
τῇ (tē)
Article - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

fiery
πυρώσει (pyrōsei)
Noun - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4451: A burning, trial, fiery test. From puroo; ignition, i.e., smelting.

trial
πειρασμὸν (peirasmon)
Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3986: From peirazo; a putting to proof (of good), experience (of evil), solicitation, discipline or provocation); by implication, adversity.

that has come
γινομένῃ (ginomenē)
Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 1096: A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude.

upon
ἐν (en)
Preposition
Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.

you,
ὑμῖν (hymin)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 4771: You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.

as though
ὡς (hōs)
Adverb
Strong's 5613: Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner.

something strange
ξένου (xenou)
Adjective - Genitive Neuter Singular
Strong's 3581: Apparently a primary word; foreign; by implication, a guest or entertainer.

were happening
συμβαίνοντος (symbainontos)
Verb - Present Participle Active - Genitive Neuter Singular
Strong's 4819: To happen, occur, meet. From sun and the base of basis; to walk together, i.e. Concur.

to you.
ὑμῖν (hymin)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 4771: You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.


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NT Letters: 1 Peter 4:12 Beloved don't be astonished at the fiery (1 Pet. 1P iP i Pet)
1 Peter 4:11
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