Suffering as a Christian

12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you to test you, as though a strange thing were happening to you. 13 But insofar as you share in the sufferings of Christ, rejoice, so that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are reproached for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of [fn]glory and of God [fn]rests upon you. [fn]On their part he is blasphemed, but on your part he is glorified. 15 None of you should suffer as a murderer, thief, evildoer, or meddler, 16 but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he should not be ashamed, but should glorify God in this [fn]matter. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God, and if it begins first with us, what will be the outcome for those who are disobedient to the gospel of God? 18 And,

“If the righteous man is scarcely saved,

what will become of the ungodly man and sinner?”

19 Therefore, those who suffer according to the will of God should entrust their souls to him as their faithful Creator while doing what is good.