Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the elect who are sojourners of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Roman Asia, and Bithynia,

who, through faith, are continuously guarded by the power of God for a salvation, ready to be revealed in the last days.

These are in order that the test of your faith, more precious than gold that is perishable and yet is tested by fire, may redound to praise and glory and honor, at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Him you love, though you have never seen him; in him you ever believe, though even now you see him not, and you are rejoicing with joy unspeakable and full of glory,

Through him you believe in God who raised him from the dead and gave him glory; so that your faith and hope are now in God.

and, A stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense. They stumble over it because they are disobeying God's word, and to this they were also appointed.

But you are an elect race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a purchased people, that you may show forth the virtues of Him who has called you out of darkness into his marvelous light??10 you who once were not a people, but now are the people of God; who were once without mercy, but now you have found mercy.

Let your manner of life before the Gentiles be honest; so that, although they are now slandering you as evil-doers, they may, by beholding your noble conduct, come to glorify God, in the day of visitation.

For what credit is it if, when you are struck for a fault, you take it patiently? But if when you are doing well and suffer for it, you always take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.

For you were straying like lost sheep, but you are now returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls.

when they see how pure and reverent you are.

thus, for example, Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are daughters of Sarah, if you do what is right, and permit nothing to make you afraid.

For the eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, And his ears are open to their cry; But the face of the Lord is set against evil-doers.

But even if you should suffer in behalf of righteousness, you are happy. Do not be afraid of their terror, neither be troubled.

They are astonished at this, that you do not run into the same excesses of profligacy as they do; and they speak evil of you.

If you are being reproached for the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the spirit of glory and of God is resting upon you.

It is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it first begin with us, what shall be the end of those who are disobedient to the gospel?

So let those who are suffering according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well-doing, as unto a faithful Creator.

Now to you who are presbyters I make this appeal; for I am myself a presbyter, and was a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory about to be revealed.

Resist him, standing firm in the faith, knowing well that the same afflictions are being accomplished in your brothers that are in the world.

Salute one another with a kiss of love. Peace be to you all who are in Christ Jesus.