« | 1 Peter 4 | » |
1 Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, you also arm yourselves [with] the same mind, because he who suffered in [the] flesh has ceased from sin,
2 that he no longer should live the remaining time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.
3 For we have spent enough of our past lifetime to accomplish the will of the Gentiles--having walked in wantonness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries.
4 In regard to these, they are surprised that you do not run with them in the same flood of debauchery, reviling you.
5 They will render an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.
6 Unto this [end] was the gospel proclaimed also to those who are dead, in order that they might be judged according to men in [the] flesh, but [that] they might live according to God in [the] spirit.
7 Now the end of all things is at hand; therefore be of sound mind and self-controlled in your prayers.
8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, because "love will cover a multitude of sins."
9 Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.
10 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
11 If anyone speaks, [let him speak] as the utterances of God. If anyone serves, [let him serve] as from strength, as God supplies, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom is the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.
12 Beloved, do not be surprised by the fiery trial among you, taking place to test you, as though some strange thing [was] happening to you;
13 but inasmuch as you partake in the sufferings of Christ, rejoice, in order that also at the unveiling of His glory, you may rejoice with great happiness.
14 If you are reviled in the name of Christ, blessed are you, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On the one hand He is blasphemed, but on the other He is glorified.
15 For let not anyone of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or an evildoer, or as a meddler in other people's affairs;
16 but if anyone [suffers] as a Christian, let him not be put to shame, but let him glorify God in this matter.
17 For the time [has come] for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if [it begins] with us first, what will be the end of those who are disobedient to the gospel of God?
18 And "If the righteous [one] is scarcely saved, where will the godless and the sinner appear?"
19 Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God entrust their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.
The Apostles’ Bible Complete (ABC)
The Apostles’ Bible Complete (ABC) is a modern translation of the Bible that strives to offer a clear and faithful rendering of the scriptures in contemporary language. This translation is designed to be accessible to a wide audience, providing an easy-to-read yet accurate version of the biblical text. The ABC translation aims to bridge the gap between the ancient languages in which the Bible was originally written and the modern vernacular, making it an ideal choice for both personal study and public reading.
One of the notable features of the Apostles’ Bible Complete is its dedication to maintaining the integrity of the original manuscripts. The translators of the ABC worked meticulously with the Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts to ensure that their translation accurately reflects the original meaning and intent of the scriptures. By employing a balance of formal equivalence (word-for-word) and dynamic equivalence (thought-for-thought) translation techniques, the ABC aims to preserve the nuances and richness of the original languages while ensuring readability and clarity for modern readers.
The ABC also incorporates extensive cross-references and study aids to enhance the reader’s understanding of the biblical text. These tools include footnotes that provide historical and cultural context, as well as explanations of difficult or ambiguous passages. This approach helps readers to grasp the deeper meanings of the scriptures and to see how different parts of the Bible interconnect. The inclusion of these study aids makes the ABC particularly useful for those who are new to the Bible, as well as for more experienced readers who are looking to deepen their understanding of the text.
Despite its strengths, the Apostles’ Bible Complete has faced some criticisms. Some readers feel that the translation could benefit from further refinement in certain passages, as the balance between formal and dynamic equivalence can sometimes lead to inconsistencies in style and tone. Others have noted that while the study aids are helpful, they can occasionally overwhelm the main text, making it difficult to focus on the scripture itself. Nonetheless, the ABC remains a valuable and respected translation, appreciated for its commitment to accuracy, clarity, and accessibility, and for its ability to bring the ancient words of the Bible to life for contemporary readers.