At the thought of this you are full of exultation, though (if it has been necessary) you have suffered for the moment somewhat from various trials;

It was this Salvation that the Prophets, who spoke long ago of the blessing intended for you, sought, and strove to comprehend;

Destined for this before the beginning of the world, he has been revealed in these last days for your sakes,

and 'a stumbling-block, and a rock which shall prove a hindrance.' They stumble because they do not accept the Message. This was the fate destined for them.

For God's will is this--that you should silence the ignorance of foolish people by doing what is right.

For this wins God's approval when, because conscious of God's presence, a man who is suffering unjustly bears his troubles patiently.

For it was to this that you were called! For Christ, too, suffered--on your behalf--and left you an example, that you should follow in his steps.

but the inner life with the imperishable beauty of a quiet and gentle spirit; for this is very precious in God's sight.

It was by this that the holy women of old, who rested their hopes on God, adorned themselves; submitting to their husbands,

never returning evil for evil, or abuse for abuse, but, on the contrary, blessing. It was to this that you were called--to obtain a blessing!

And baptism, which this foreshadowed, now saves you--not the mere cleansing of the body, but the search of a clear conscience after God--through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,