1 Peter 4:12-13
What is written? (ESV)
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.
What does it say?
Brethren, don’t be caught off guard when extreme trials come upon you in order to test you. It’s not strange but to be expected. You should rejoice since you are sharing in Christ’s sufferings, and so rejoice when He returns in glory.
What is its immediate context?
Peter’s first letter to the “elect exiles” (brethren) who were faced with “various trials” (1:6). He wrote to strengthen and encourage them.
How 1 Peter 4:12-13 is applied across Bible answers
What happens next in the Bible?
Christians will suffer trials/persecutions as they live out their faith, but next comes Jesus returning in glory.
Peter has just declared that it is "the end of all things" (vs 7), which is in keeping with his broad sequencing of times/ages in his letter when he opened, stating that Jesus' appearance was in "the last times" (1:20).
