Keep Fervent in Your Love

1Therefore, 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— 2so as to no longer live the rest of the time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. 3For the time already past is sufficient for you to have worked out the desire of the Gentiles, [†]having pursued a course of sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, carousing, drinking parties, and [†]abominable idolatries. 4In all this, they are surprised that you do not run with them into the same excesses of dissipation, maligning you, 5but they will give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6For to this the gospel has been [†]proclaimed even to those who are now dead, so that though they were judged in the flesh as men, they live in the spirit according to the will of God.

7The end of all things is at hand; therefore, be of sound thinking and sober spirit for the purpose of [†]prayer. 8Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because LOVE COVERS A MULTITUDE OF SINS. 9Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. 10As each one has received a gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God— 11whoever speaks, [†]as one speaking the oracles of God; whoever serves, as one serving [†]by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and might forever and ever. Amen.

Sharing the Suffering of Christ

12Beloved, 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. 13But to the degree you are sharing the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation. 14If you are insulted [†]for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a [†]troublesome meddler; 16but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be put to shame, but is to glorify God in this name. 17For it is time for judgment to begin [†]with the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18AND IF IT IS WITH DIFFICULTY THAT THE RIGHTEOUS IS SAVED, [†]WHAT WILL BECOME OF THE GODLESS MAN AND THE SINNER? 19Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God must entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing good.