who are being guarded by God's power, through faith unto a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time;

ye yourselves also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

But ye are "an elect race, a kingly priesthood, a holy nation," a people for a possession, that ye may show forth the excellencies of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;

who once were not a people, but are now God's people; who had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.

because the eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and His ears are toward their supplication; but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."

But, if ye should even suffer for righteousness sake, happy are ye. But fear not their fear, neither be troubled;

having a good conscience; that, in whatever ye are spoken against, those who revile your good conduct may be put to shame.

at which they are surprised, since ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you;

If ye are reproached in Christ's name, happy are ye, because the Spirit of glory and that of God rests upon you.

whom resist, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same kinds of sufferings are being accomplished in your brethren who are in the world.

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