Israel’s Only Savior

⁷ The end of all things is near.^(A) Therefore be alert and of sober mind^(B) so that you may pray. ⁸ Above all, love each other deeply,^(C) because love covers over a multitude of sins.^{(D) 9} Offer hospitality^(E) to one another without grumbling.^{(F) 10} Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others,^(G) as faithful^(H) stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. ¹¹ If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God.^(I) If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides,^(J) so that in all things God may be praised^(K) through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.^(L)

Suffering for Being a Christian

¹² Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you^(M) to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. ¹³ But rejoice^(N) inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ,^(O) so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.^{(P) 14} If you are insulted because of the name of Christ,^(Q) you are blessed,^(R) for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. ¹⁵ If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. ¹⁶ However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.^{(S) 17} For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household;^(T) and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?^{(U) 18} And,

¹⁹ So then, those who suffer according to God’s will^(W) should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.