The Testing Of A Christian's Faith

Peter continues to write to the believers to encourage and warn them. In our day, warning has been put away as great numbers of pastors and teachers choose to leave the warnings out so they can build big churches, have lots of money and the pride of their very temporary position.

1 Peter 4 ISV

12Dear friends, do not be surprised by the fiery ordeal that is taking place among you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 

• 13Instead, because you are participating in the sufferings of the Messiah,g keep on rejoicing, so that you may be glad and shout for joy when his glory is revealed. 
• 14If you are insulted because of the name of the Messiah,h you are blessed, for the glorious Spirit of God is resting on you.i

15Of course, none of you should suffer for being a murderer, thief, criminal, or troublemaker. 

• 16But if you suffer for being a Christian, do not feel ashamed, but glorify God with that name. 
• 17For the time has come for judgment to begin with the household of God. 
• And if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who refuse to obey the gospel of God?

18“If it is hard for the righteous person to be saved,

what will happen to the ungodly and sinful person?”j

19So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should entrust their souls to their faithful Creator and continue to do what is good.