12 Dear friends, don’t be surprised as the fiery trials that you all will have to face as a test, as though it’s something unusual that’s happening to you, 13 but rather as you all share in the sufferings of the messiah, stay positive so that you will all be happy as you’re also glad to see his honour revealed. 14 You all will be blessed if you are derided in the name of the messiah because God’s spirit rests on you all—the spirit that honours him. 15 None of you should suffer persecution because you’re a murderer or a thief or a troublemaker or nosey-parker, 16 but if you suffer for being a follower of the messiah, then there’s no need to feel ashamed but instead be praising God in that name.

17 It’s time to begin judgement and to begin with God’s people, and if we’re judged first, what will the outcome be for those who refuse to believe in God’s good message? 18 [ref]Yes,

‘if it’s difficult for godly people to be saved,

what will it be like for the ungodly and for sinners.’

19 So for anyone who’s suffering according to God’s will, let them entrust the well-being of their souls to the faithful creator.