[:en]LIVING FOR GOD (vs. 1-11)
As followers of Christ, we should be willing and prepared to suffer and do God’s will. A person whose life changes after conversion may experience abuse by his friends because his priorities has changed and he refuses to participate in certain activities. We must resist pressures of opposition and remain faithful to Christ.
The basis of salvation is our belief in Jesus, but the basis for judgment is how we have lived. Those who inflect persecutions are marked for punishment when they stand before God. Believers have nothing to fear because Jesus will be the final judge. The dead (both the faithful and their oppressors) will be judged fairly.
The end of all things is near because Christ is coming soon. Be ready by praying regularly, loving each other deeply, reaching out to the needy and offering hospitality to one another. Use your gift to serve others and administer God’s grace in various forms. If you have the gift of speech, speak the Words of God. If you have the gift of serving, do it with God’s strength for His glory.
SUFFERING FOR BEING A CHRISTIAN (vs. 12-19)
God will send His Spirit to strengthen those who are persecuted for their faith. When we suffer because of our loyalty to Christ, He will be with us all the way. Keep doing what is right. The creator of the world is faithful to fulfill His promise to see us through the trials that we face.
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