[12] Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.
[13] But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
[14] If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.
[15] If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler.
[16] However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.
[17] For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?
[18] And, “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”
[19] So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
1 Peter 5
[1] To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed:
[2] Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve;
[3] not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
[4] And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
[5] Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
[6] Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.
[7] Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
[8] Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
[9] Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
[10] And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.
[11] To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.
[12] With the help of Silas, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it.
[13] She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you her greetings, and so does my son Mark.
[14] Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.
