Now this is that word which has been proclaimed as glad tidings to you.

For this is acceptable, if any one, from conscience of God, sustain sorrows, suffering unjustly.

But what praise is due, if, when you commit faults and are buffeted, you bear it patiently? Yet if, when you do well, and suffer, you bear it patiently, this is acceptable with God.

Besides, to this you were called; for even Christ suffered for us, leaving us a pattern, that you should follow his footsteps;

not returning evil for evil, or railing for railing; but, on the contrary, bless: knowing that to this you were called, that you might inherit the blessing.

For, to this end of the gospel was preached to the dead, that they might, indeed, be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.

By Sylvanus, a faithful brother, (as I conclude,) I have written to you in few words, exhorting you, and strongly testifying that this is the true favor of God, in which you stand.