Chapter 4

Christ, then, having suffered for us in [the] flesh, do ye also arm yourselves with the same mind; for he that has suffered in [the] flesh has done with sin,

no longer to live the rest of [his] time in [the] flesh to men's lusts, but to God's will.

For the time past [is] sufficient [for us] to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, walking in lasciviousness, lusts, wine-drinking, revels, drinkings, and unhallowed idolatries.

Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with [them] to the same sink of corruption, speaking injuriously [of you];

who shall render account to him who is ready to judge [the] living and [the] dead.

For to this [end] were the glad tidings preached to [the] dead also, that they might be judged, as regards men, after [the] flesh, but live, as regards God, after [the] Spirit.

But the end of all things is drawn nigh: be sober therefore, and be watchful unto prayers;

but before all things having fervent love among yourselves, because love covers a multitude of sins;

hospitable one to another, without murmuring;

each according as he has received a gift, ministering it to one another, as good stewards of [the] various grace of God.

If any one speak -- as oracles of God; if any one minister -- as of strength which God supplies; that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom is the glory and the might for the ages of ages. Amen.

Beloved, take not [as] strange the fire [of persecution] which has taken place amongst you for [your] trial, as if a strange thing was happening to you;

but as ye have share in the sufferings of Christ, rejoice, that in the revelation of his glory also ye may rejoice with exultation.

If ye are reproached in [the] name of Christ, blessed [are ye]; for the [Spirit] of glory and the Spirit of God rests upon you: [on their part he is blasphemed, but on your part he is glorified.]

Let none of you suffer indeed as murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or as overseer of other people's matters;

but if as a christian, let him not be ashamed, but glorify God in this name.

For the time of having the judgment begin from the house of God [is come]; but if first from us, what [shall be] the end of those who obey not the glad tidings of God?

And if the righteous is difficultly saved, where shall the impious and [the] sinner appear?

Wherefore also let them who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls in well-doing to a faithful Creator.