Old Testament

1 Peter 4
Do Not Join in Immorality
41Therefore, because Christ suffered in flesh,[] arm yourselves with the same mindset, because the one who has suffered in flesh is done with sin. 2Do this so that you no longer live the rest of your time in the flesh for human desires but for God's will. 3Indeed, you have already spent enough time in the past doing what the Gentiles want to do: living in unbridled immorality, lusts, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and disgusting idolatry.
4For this reason, they are surprised that you do not plunge into the same overflowing river of filth with them, and they slander you. 5They will have to give an account to the one who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6In fact, it was for this reason that the gospel was preached also to those who are dead, so that they might be judged the way people are judged in flesh and that they might live the way God lives in spirit.
Love for Others in the End Times
7The end of all things is near. So have sound judgment and be self-controlled for the sake of your prayers. 8Above all, love each other constantly, because love covers a multitude of sins. 9Be hospitable to one another without complaining.
Gifts Meant for Service
10Serve one another, each according to the gift he has received, as good stewards of the many forms of God's grace. 11If anyone speaks, let him do it as one speaking the messages of God. If anyone serves, let him do it as one serving with the strength God supplies so that God may be glorified in every way through Jesus Christ. To him belong the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.
Sharing in the Sufferings of Christ
12Dear friends, do not be surprised by the fiery trial that is happening among you to test you, as if something strange were happening to you. 13Instead rejoice whenever you are sharing in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.
14If you are insulted in connection with 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, a thief, a criminal, or as a meddler. 16But if you suffer for being a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God in connection with this name.[] 17For the time has come for judgment to begin with the household of God. Now if it begins with us, what will be the end for those who disobey the gospel of God? 18And if it is hard for the righteous to be saved, where will the ungodly sinner end up? 19So let those who suffer according to the will of God entrust their souls to their faithful Creator while doing what is good.

Footnotes

  • 4:1 See the footnote on flesh at 1 Peter 3:18. Some witnesses to the text add for us.
  • 4:14 Some witnesses to the text add and of power.
  • 4:14 Some witnesses to the text add They blaspheme him, but you glorify him.
  • 4:16 Some witnesses to the text read in this matter.