¹⁴ But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed.^(A) “Do not fear their threats^[a]; do not be frightened.”^{[b](B) 15} But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer^(C) to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope^(D) that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,

⁹ When you hear of wars and uprisings, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away.”

⁴ “I tell you, my friends,^(A) do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. ⁵ But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.^(B)

Woe to the Obstinate Nation

⁵ Then Rezin^(A) king of Aram and Pekah son of Remaliah king of Israel marched up to fight against Jerusalem and besieged Ahaz, but they could not overpower him. ⁶ At that time, Rezin^(B) king of Aram recovered Elath^(C) for Aram by driving out the people of Judah. Edomites then moved into Elath and have lived there to this day.

⁷ Ahaz sent messengers to say to Tiglath-Pileser^(D) king of Assyria, “I am your servant and vassal. Come up and save^(E) me out of the hand of the king of Aram and of the king of Israel, who are attacking me.”

² There was a violent earthquake,^(A) for an angel^(B) of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone^(C) and sat on it. ³ His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow.^{(D) 4} The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.

⁵ The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid,^(E) for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified.