¹⁶ Live as free people,^(A) but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil;^(B) live as God’s slaves.^{(C) 17} Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers,^(D) fear God, honor the emperor.^(E)

¹⁸ Slaves, in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters,^(F) not only to those who are good and considerate,^(G) but also to those who are harsh. ¹⁹ For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God.^{(H) 20} But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.^{(I) 21} To this^(J) you were called,^(K) because Christ suffered for you,^(L) leaving you an example,^(M) that you should follow in his steps.