Suffering as Christians

12 Beloved, {do} not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed at the revelation of His glory.

14 If you are insulted for [the] name of Christ, [you are] blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. Indeed, on their [part] He is blasphemed, but on your [part] He is glorified.[fn] 15 Indeed, [none] of you should suffer as a murderer or thief or wrongdoer, or even as a meddler. 16 But if [you suffer] as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God in this matter.[fn] 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 disobey 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?”[fn]

19 So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should entrust their souls to [their] faithful Creator and continue to do good.