1 Peter 4:12-19

Twentieth_Century(i) 12 Dear friends, do not be astonished at the fiery trials that you are passing through, to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 No, the more you share the sufferings of the Christ, the more may you rejoice, that, when the time comes for the manifestation of his Glory, you may rejoice and exult. 14 If you are reviled for bearing the name of Christ, count yourselves blessed; because the divine Glory and the Spirit of God are resting upon you. 15 I need hardly say that no one among you must suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or a criminal, or for interfering in matters which do not concern Christians. 16 But, if a man suffers as a Christian, do not let him be ashamed of it; let him bring honour to God even though he bears that name. 17 For the time has come for judgment to begin with the House of God; and, if it begins with us, what will be the end of those who reject God's Good News? 18 If 'a good man is saved only with difficulty, what will become of the godless and the sinful?' 19 Therefore, I say, let those who suffer, because God wills it so, commit their lives into the hands of a faithful Creator, and persevere in doing right.