¹³ Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?^{(B) 14} But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed.^(C) “Do not fear their threats^[b]; do not be frightened.”^{[c](D) 15} But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer^(E) to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope^(F) that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, ¹⁶ keeping a clear conscience,^(G) so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.^{(H) 17} For it is better, if it is God’s will,^(I) to suffer for doing good^(J) than for doing evil. ¹⁸ For Christ also suffered once^(K) for sins,^(L) the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.^(M) He was put to death in the body^(N) but made alive in the Spirit.^(O)

¹⁶ But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear.^(A)