1 Peter 4
Christians should arm themselves with the intention of suffering in the flesh, as Christ did, to live according to God's will and not by human desires. They should not indulge in sinful behaviors like the Gentiles, but instead live a life of love, hospitality, and service to one another. Believers should not be ashamed to suffer for being a Christian, but rather glorify God in that name, and commend their souls to the faithful Creator through good deeds.
Since Christ has suffered in the flesh, you also should be armed with the same intention. For he who suffers in the flesh desists from sinso that now he may live, for the remainder of his time in the flesh, not by the desires of men, but by the will of GodFor the time that has passed is sufficient to have fulfilled the will of the Gentiles, those who have walked in luxuries, lusts, intoxication, feasting, drinking, and the illicit worship of idolsAbout this, they wonder why you do not rush with them into the same confusion of indulgences, blasphemingBut they must render an account to him who is prepared to judge the living and the deadFor because of this, the Gospel was also preached to the dead, so that they might be judged, certainly, just like men in the flesh, yet also, so that they might live according to God, in the SpiritBut the end of everything draws near. And so, be prudent, and be vigilant in your prayersBut, before all things, have a constant mutual charity among yourselves. For love covers a multitude of sinsShow hospitality to one another without complainingJust as each of you has received grace, minister in the same way to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of GodWhen anyone speaks, it should be like words of God. When anyone ministers, it should be from the virtue that God provides, so that in all things God may be honored through Jesus Christ. To him is glory and dominion forever and ever. AmenMost beloved, do not choose to sojourn in the passion which is a temptation to you, as if something new might happen to youBut instead, commune in the Passion of Christ, and be glad that, when his glory will be revealed, you too may rejoice with exultationIf you are reproached for the name of Christ, you will be blessed, because that which is of the honor, glory, and power of God, and that which is of his Spirit, rests upon youBut let none of you suffer for being a murderer, or a thief, or a slanderer, or one who covets what belongs to anotherBut if one of you suffers for being a Christian, he should not be ashamed. Instead, he should glorify God in that nameFor it is time that judgment begin at the house of God. And if it is first from us, what shall be the end of those who do not believe the Gospel of GodAnd if the just man will scarcely be saved, where will the impious and the sinner appearTherefore, too, let those who suffer according to the will of God commend their souls by good deeds to the faithful Creator
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