13 And who is he who will harm you if you become
followers of what is good? 14 But even if you
should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “And do not
be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.” 15 But
sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a
defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you,
with meekness and fear; 16 having a good conscience,
that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct
in Christ may be ashamed. 17 For it is better,
if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil