1 Peter 4
Stewards of God’s Grace
Since therefore aChrist suffered in the flesh, barm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for cwhoever has suffered in the flesh dhas ceased from sin, 2 aso as to live for bthe rest of the time in the flesh cno longer for human passions but dfor the will of God. 3 For the time that is past asuffices bfor doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. 4 With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of adebauchery, and bthey malign you; 5 but they will give account to him who is ready ato judge the living and the dead. 6 For this is why athe gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does.
7 aThe end of all things is at hand; therefore bbe self-controlled and sober-minded cfor the sake of your prayers. 8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since alove covers a multitude of sins. 9 aShow hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 aAs each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, bas good stewards of God’s varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks aoracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves bby the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything cGod may be glorified through Jesus Christ. dTo him belong glory and edominion forever and ever. Amen.
Suffering as a Christian
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at athe fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice ainsofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad bwhen his glory is revealed. 14 aIf you are insulted bfor the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. 15 But alet none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or bas a meddler. 16 Yet aif anyone suffers as a bChristian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God cin that name. 17 For it is time for judgment ato begin at the household of God; and bif it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who cdo not obey the gospel of God? 18 And
a“If the righteous is scarcely saved,
what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”
19 Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will aentrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good. The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway,
a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. ESV Text Edition: 2025.