Following Christ

1Therefore, since Christ sufferedA in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same understandingB — because the one who suffers in the flesh is finisheda with sinC —  2in order to live the remaining time in the flesh no longer for human desires, but for God’s will.a 3For there has already been enough time spent in doing what the Gentiles choose to do: carrying on in unrestrained behavior, evil desires,a drunkenness, orgies,b carousing, and lawless idolatry. 4They are surprised that you don’t join them in the same flood of wild living — and they slanderA you. 5They will give an account to the one who stands ready to judge the living and the dead.a 6For this reason the gospel was also preached to those who are now dead,a a so that, although they might be judged in the flesh according to human standards,b they might livec in the spirit according to God’s standards.

End-Time Ethics

7The end of all things is near;a therefore, be alert and sober-mindedb for prayer. 8Above all, maintain constant lovea for one another, since love covers a multitude of sins.b c 9Be hospitablea to one another without complaining. 10Just as each one has received a gift, use it to serve others,a as good stewards of the varied grace of God. 11If anyone speaks, let it be as one who speaks God’s words; if anyone serves, let it be from the strength God provides,a so that God may be glorified through Jesus Christ in everything. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.

Christian Suffering

12Dear friends, don’t be surprised when the fiery ordeal comes among you to test you, as if something unusual were happening to you.a 13Instead, rejoice as you share in the sufferings of Christ,a so that you may also rejoice with great joy when his glory is revealed.b 14If you are ridiculed for the name of Christ,a you are blessed, because the Spiritb of glory and of GodA rests on you. 15Let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or a meddler.A 16But if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed but let him glorify God in having that name.A 17For the time has come for judgmenta to begin with God’s household,b and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who disobey the gospel of God?

18And if a righteous person is saved with difficulty,

what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?a b

19So then, let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust themselvesa to a faithful Creator while doing what is good.