12

Dear brothers, do not be surprised, as if it was something strange, if your faith is tested as by fire:

13

But be glad that you are given a part in the pains of Christ so that at the revelation of his glory you may have great joy.

14

If men say evil things of you because of the name of Christ, happy are you for the Spirit of glory and of God is resting on you.

15

Let no one among you undergo punishment as a taker of life, or as a thief, or as an evil-doer, or as one who is over-interested in other men's business

16

But if he undergoes punishment as a Christian, that is no shame to him let him give glory to God in this name.

17

For the time has come for the judging, starting with the church of God but if it makes a start with us, what will be the end of those who are not under the rule of God?

18

And if it is hard for even the good man to get salvation, what chance has the man without religion or the sinner?

19

For this reason let those who by the purpose of God undergo punishment, keep on in well-doing and put their souls into the safe hands of their Maker.