and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory,

who through Him are believers in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.

And coming to Him as to a living stone which has been rejected by men, but is choice and precious in the sight of God,

For this is contained in Scripture:
“Behold, I lay in Zion a choice stone, a precious corner stone,
And he who believes in Him will not be disappointed.”

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;

or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right.

and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously;

just as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, and you have become her children if you do what is right without being frightened by any fear.

who is at the right hand of God, having gone into heaven, after angels and authorities and powers had been subjected to Him.

but they will give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.

But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world.

To Him be dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Through Silvanus, our faithful brother (for so I regard him), I have written to you briefly, exhorting and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it!