1 Keep Fervent in Your Love Therefore, since Christ has 4:1Suffered death suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose—because he who has 4:1Suffered death suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin—
2 so as to no longer live the rest of the time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.
3 For the time already past is sufficientfor youto have worked out the desire of the Gentiles, 4:3Lit having gone in having pursued a course of sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, carousing, drinking parties, and 4:3Lit lawless abominable idolatries.
4 Inallthis, they are surprised that you do not run withtheminto the same excesses of dissipation, maligningyou,
5 but they will give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.
6 For to this the gospel has been 4:6 Proclaimed in their lifetimes proclaimed even to those who arenowdead, so that though they were judged in the flesh as men, they live in the spirit according tothe will ofGod.
7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore, be of sound thinking and soberspiritfor the purpose of 4:7Lit prayers prayer.
8 Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, becauselove covers a multitude of sins.
9 Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.
10 As each one has received a gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God—
11 whoever speaks, 4:11Lit as utterances as onespeakingthe oracles of God; whoever serves, as oneserving 4:11Lit from 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
12 Beloved, 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.
13 But 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.
14 If you are insulted 4:14Lit in for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.
15 Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a 4:15 Lit one who oversees others’ affairs troublesome meddler;
16 but ifanyone suffersas a Christian, he is not to be put to shame, but is to glorify God in this name.
17 Forit istime for judgment to begin 4:17 Lit from with the house of God; and ifit beginswith us first, whatwill bethe outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?
18 And if it is with difficulty that the righteous is saved, 4:18Lit where will appear what will become of the godless man and the sinner?
19 Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God must entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing good.