Apart from 4:12 and 16 which could indicate sudden violent antagonism towards Christians ('My dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful test you are suffering, as though something unusual were happening ... if you suffer because you are a Christian, don't be ashamed of it ... ') the impression given by the letter is that the readers are living in situations which were hostile to the Gospel (4:3-4). The transitory nature of the Christian life in this world is referred to (I: I, 5: 10). The Christian should always be prepared to meet opposition for the sake of Christ (4: 12-13). Suffering is not to be feared but can bring spiritual blessing (3: 13-14, 4:14,16). Trials are a testing of faith (I: 6-7); they will pass and give place to praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ returns (1 :6,7,5: 10, 4: 13). Persecution unites us with and conforms us to Christ (2:4,4: 1,4: 13). Strong emphasis is placed on the example given by Jesus Christ in his sufferings (2:21-24,3:15-18,4:1 and 13, .5:1). Only by the shedding of his blood was mankind freed from the power of sin (1 : 18-19). 'Be glad that you are sharing Christ's sufferings, so that you may be full of joy when his glory is revealed' (5:13). 'Be firm in your faith ... because you know that your fellow-believers in all the world are going through the same kind of sufferings. But after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace ... will himself perfect you and give you firmness, strength and a sure foundation' (5:9-10). Endurance not avoidance of suffering is asked of the Christian.