The Bible in Basic English BBE
New International Version NIV
12 Dear brothers, do not be surprised, as if it was something strange, if your faith is tested as by fire:
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Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.
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.
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But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
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.
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If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests 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;
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If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler.
16 But if he undergoes punishment as a Christian, that is no shame to him; let him give glory to God in this name.
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However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that 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?
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For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel 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?
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And, “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and 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.
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So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
The Bible in Basic English is in the public domain.
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.