trying to learn for what possible time the spirit of Christ within them in predicting the sufferings destined for Christ intended them and the glories that were to follow them.

It was disclosed to them that they were serving not themselves but you in dealing with these things, which have now been told you by those who through the holy Spirit sent from heaven brought you the good news; things into which angels long to look!

Like obedient children, do not adapt yourselves to the cravings you used to follow when you were ignorant,

for you know that you have not been ransomed with anything perishable like silver or gold, from the futile way of living in which you were brought up,

you who were once "no people" but are now "God's people"; once "unpitied" but now "pitied indeed."

For you were astray like sheep, but now you have returned to the shepherd and guardian of your souls.

It was in that way in ancient times that those pious women who set their hopes on God made themselves attractive. They were submissive to their husbands,

not returning evil for evil, or abuse for abuse. You must bless people instead. It is for this that you were called??o obtain blessing.

In it Enoch went and preached even to those spirits that were in prison,

who had once been disobedient, when in Noah's time God in his patience waited for the ark to be made ready, in which a few people, eight in all, were brought safely through the water.

Dear friends, do not be surprised that a test of fire is being applied to you, as though a strange thing were happening to you,

I appeal therefore to those who are elders among you; I am their brother-elder and a witness to what the Christ suffered, and I am to share in the glory that is to be revealed??2 be shepherds of the flock of God that is among you, not as though it were forced upon you but of your own free will, and not from base love of gain but freely,