Dec 24 - 1 Peter 4-5
1 Peter
1Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin,2so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God.3The time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry.4With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you;5but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.6For this is why the 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.7The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers.8Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.9Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.10As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace:11whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies--in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.12Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.13But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.14If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.15But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler.16Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.17For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?18And "If the righteous is scarcely saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?"19Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.
1So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed:2shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly;3not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.4And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.5Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."6Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,7casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.8Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.9Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.10And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.11To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.12By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it.13She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son.14Greet one another with the kiss of love.Peace to all of you who are in Christ.