⁵ Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.^(A)

¹⁶ In the same way, let your light shine before others,^(A) that they may see your good deeds^(B) and glorify^(C) your Father in heaven.

⁹ “As the Father has loved me,^(A) so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. ¹⁰ If you keep my commands,^(B) you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.

¹² Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves^(A) with compassion, kindness, humility,^(B) gentleness and patience.^(C)

¹² No one has ever seen God;^(A) but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.^(B)

¹⁵ But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer^(A) to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope^(B) that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, ¹⁶ keeping a clear conscience,^(C) so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.^(D)

²¹ keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait^(A) for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.^(B)