Peter (The First Epistle of )

Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin,

so as to live the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.

For the time already past is sufficient [for you] to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles, having pursued a course of sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, carousals, drinking parties and abominable idolatries.

And in [all] this, they are surprised that you do not run with [them] into the same excess of dissipation, and they malign [you];

but they shall give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

For the gospel has for this purpose been preached even to those who are dead, that though they are judged in the flesh as men, they may live in the spirit according to [the will of] God.

The end of all things is at hand; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober [spirit] for the purpose of prayer.

Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.

Be hospitable to one another without complaint.

As each one has received a [special] gift, employ it in serving one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

Whoever speaks, [let him speak,] as it were, the utterances of God; whoever serves, [let him do so] as by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing; so that also at the revelation of His glory, you may rejoice with exultation.

If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.

By no means let any of you suffer as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler;

but if [anyone suffers] as a Christian, let him not feel ashamed, but in that name let him glorify God.

For [it is] time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if [it begins] with us first, what [will be] the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?

And if it is with difficulty that the righteous is saved, what will become of the godless man and the sinner?

Therefore, let those also who suffer according to the will of God entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.