31 It is a terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
32 Remember those earlier days after you received the light. At that time you stood firm in a great struggle. You did it even in the face of suffering.
33 Sometimes you were made fun of in front of others. You were treated badly. At other times you stood side by side with people who were being treated like that.
34 You suffered together with people in prison. When your property was taken from you, you accepted it with joy. You knew that God had given you better and more lasting things.
35 So don't throw away your bold faith. It will bring you rich rewards.
36 You need to be faithful. Then you will do what God wants. You will receive what he has promised.
37 In just a very little while, "The one who is coming will come. He will not wait.