Living for God's Glory

1Christ therefore having suffered in the flesh, be you also armed with the same thought: for he that hath suffered in the flesh, hath ceased from sins: 2That now he may live the rest of his time in the flesh , not after the desires of men, but according to the will of God. 3For the time past is sufficient to have fulfilled the will of the Gentiles, for them who have walked in riotousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and unlawful worshipping of idols. 4Wherein they think it strange, that you run not with them into the same confusion of riotousness, speaking evil of you. 5Who shall render account to him, who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6For, for this cause was the gospel preached also to the dead: that they might be judged indeed according to men, in the flesh; but may live according to God, in the Spirit.

7But the end of all is at hand. Be prudent therefore, and watch in prayers. 8But before all things have a constant mutual charity among yourselves: for charity covereth a multitude of sins. 9Using hospitality one towards another, without murmuring, 10As every man hath received grace, ministering the same one to another: as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11If any man speak, let him speak, as the words of God. If any man minister, let him do it, as of the power, which God administereth: that in all things God may be honoured through Jesus Christ: to whom is glory and empire for ever and ever. Amen.

Suffering as Christians

12Dearly beloved, think not strange the burning heat which is to try you, as if some new thing happened to you; 13But if you partake of the sufferings of Christ, rejoice that when his glory shall be revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. 14If you be reproached for the name of Christ, you shall be blessed: for that which is of the honour, glory, and power of God, and that which is his Spirit, resteth upon you. 15But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or a railer, or a coveter of other men's things. 16But if as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. 17For the time is, that judgment should begin at the house of God. And if first at us, what shall be the end of them that believe not the gospel of God? 18And if the just man shall scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? 19Wherefore let them also that suffer according to the will of God, commend their souls in good deeds to the faithful Creator.