body, that is, the church” (Col 1:24). He claimed that his entire life embodied a kind of martyrdom. “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me” (Gal 2:19–20). He saw life in Christ as nothing but gain, even if it required death. “For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain” (Phil 1:21). Peter exhorted the churches in Asia Minor to prepare for the inevitable. “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that is taking place among you