In 4:12 the impression is given to us that something worse than general hostility to the Church from pagan society was happening. In the original Greek, the phrase meaning 'testing by fire' is used. We cannot know exactly what kind of persecution Peter was referring to but he tells his readers that they should not be surprised when they suffer but should understand it as sharing in Christ's sufferings (4:13). This means not only accepting suffering without resentment, in imitation of Christ, but understanding suffering as a sign of the approaching return of Jesus Christ and trusting completely in the will of God. In Mark 13:5-37, Jesus spoke of the troubles which would be seen in the world before the Last Judgement. Peter points beyond the suffering to the joy and glory of Christ's return (4:13).4:14 reflects Matthew 5:11-12. Those who are insulted because they follow Christ manifest the power of the Holy Spirit in their lives (4: 14). The person who suffers because he is an evil-doer deserves it (4: 15) but those who suffer for the sake of Christ should thank God (4: 16) because they can witness for Christ. Peter understands the present sufferings of his readers as a sign of the approaching end of the present age and Judgement. The people of God will be the first to be judged (which is why Peter has exhorted them to maintain holy living in their day-to-day lives). What will be the end of the Judgement for those who do not believe the Good News? In 4:19 there is encouragement to those who suffer to trust completely in God who always keeps his promises.