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,

⁶ Let your conversation be always full of grace,^(A) seasoned with salt,^(B) so that you may know how to answer everyone.^(C)

²⁵ Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth,^{(A) 26} and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil,^(B) who has taken them captive to do his will.

¹⁴ But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves.^{(A) 15} For I will give you^(B) words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict.

² when they see the purity and reverence of your lives.

¹⁸ On my account you will be brought before governors and kings^(A) as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. ¹⁹ But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it.^(B) At that time you will be given what to say, ²⁰ for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father^(C) speaking through you.

⁷ Now then, stand^(A) here, because I am going to confront^(B) you with evidence before the Lord as to all the righteous acts^(C) performed by the Lord for you and your ancestors.

² in the hope of eternal life,^(A) which God, who does not lie,^(B) promised before the beginning of time,^(C)

²⁷ To them God has chosen to make known^(A) among the Gentiles the glorious riches^(B) of this mystery, which is Christ in you,^(C) the hope of glory.