THEREFORE, as Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: Because he that suffers in the flesh, ceases from sin;
2 In that, he no longer lives the rest of his time in the flesh in the desires of men, rather by the will of God.
3 ¶ Because it is enough for us, that our life brought about the will of the Gentiles in times past; walking in lasciviousness, desires, excess of wine, orgies, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries;
4 In which, they are surprised that you do not run with them in the same flood of dissipation, speaking evil of you;
5 Whom, will give an accounting to him that is ready to judge the living and the dead.
6 Because, for this cause also was the gospel proclaimed to those that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.
Be Good Stewarts of God’s Grace
7 ¶ But the end of all things is drawing near; therefore, be of sound mind, and self controlled in order to pray.
8 And above all things have constant and earnest love among yourselves: because love covers over a multitude of sins.
9 ¶ Be hospitable, to one another without murmuring.
10 As every man has received a gift, so minister the same to one another: as good stewards of the various kinds of God’s grace.
11 If any man speak, let him speak as the words of God; if any man serve, let him do it as from the ability which God gives: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion in all ages and forever. Amen.
Judgement Begins as the House of God
12 ¶ Beloved, do not be surprised in your fiery trial which is to test you, as though some strange thing has happened to you:
13 Rather rejoice, to the degree that you are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that also, when his glory is revealed, you may rejoice with jubilant exultation.
14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, blessed are you; that the spirit of glory and of God rests on you. On their part he is blasphemed, but on your part he is glorified.
15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s affairs.
16 ¶ Yet if any man suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
17 Because, it is time that judgment begins at the house of God: and if first with us; what will the end be, of those that do not obey the gospel of God?
18 And if the righteous are scarcely saved, where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?
19 Therefore, let those that suffer according to the will of God, entrust the keeping of their souls to him, as a faithful creator, by means of good works.