14. But even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear, and do not be intimidated,

15. but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you,

16. yet do it with gentleness and respect. Maintain a good conscience so that, when you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame.

17. For it is better to suffer for doing good, if suffering should be God’s will, than to suffer for doing evil.

18. For Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, in order to bring you to God. He was put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit,