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15 But regard the Lord, the Christ,[a] as holy in your hearts.[b] Always be prepared to give an answer[c] to everyone who asks you to give a reason for the hope that is in you. 16 But speak with gentleness and respect, while maintaining a clear conscience, so that those who attack your good way of life in Christ may be put to shame because they slandered you as evildoers.[d]

The Suffering and Exaltation of Christ

17 Indeed, it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil,

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Peter 3:15 A few witnesses to the text read God instead of the Christ.
  2. 1 Peter 3:15 See Isaiah 8:12-13.
  3. 1 Peter 3:15 Or to give a defense
  4. 1 Peter 3:16 A few witnesses to the text omit as evildoers.

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) 17 For it is better, if it is God’s will,(E) to suffer for doing good(F) than for doing evil.

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