CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 Peter 3:16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_peter/3-16.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/3/60_1Pe_03_16.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Peter 3:16 - Suffering for Righteousness" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/1_peter/3-16.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/1_peter/3-16.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/1_peter/">1 Peter</a> > <a href="/1_peter/3.htm">Chapter 3</a> > Verse 16</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad16.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/1_peter/3-15.htm" title="1 Peter 3:15">◄</a> 1 Peter 3:16 <a href="/1_peter/3-17.htm" title="1 Peter 3:17">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/1_peter/3.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/1_peter/3.htm">New International Version</a> keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. <a href="/nlt/1_peter/3.htm">New Living Translation</a> But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. <a href="/esv/1_peter/3.htm">English Standard Version</a> having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. <a href="/bsb/1_peter/3.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ. <a href="/blb/1_peter/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> having a good conscience, so that in the case that they might speak against you, those reviling your good manner of life in Christ, they shall be ashamed. <a href="/kjv/1_peter/3.htm">King James Bible</a> Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. <a href="/nkjv/1_peter/3.htm">New King James Version</a> having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. <a href="/nasb_/1_peter/3.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who disparage your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame. <a href="/nasb/1_peter/3.htm">NASB 1995</a> and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame. <a href="/nasb77/1_peter/3.htm">NASB 1977 </a> and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. <a href="/lsb/1_peter/3.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> having a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who disparage your good conduct in Christ will be put to shame. <a href="/amp/1_peter/3.htm">Amplified Bible</a> And see to it that your conscience is entirely clear, so that every time you are slandered or falsely accused, those who attack or disparage your good behavior in Christ will be shamed [by their own words]. <a href="/csb/1_peter/3.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Yet do this with gentleness and reverence, keeping a clear conscience, so that when you are accused, those who disparage your good conduct in Christ will be put to shame. <a href="/hcsb/1_peter/3.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> However, do this with gentleness and respect, keeping your conscience clear, so that when you are accused, those who denounce your Christian life will be put to shame. <a href="/asv/1_peter/3.htm">American Standard Version</a> having a good conscience; that, wherein ye are spoken against, they may be put to shame who revile your good manner of life in Christ. <a href="/cev/1_peter/3.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Give a kind and respectful answer and keep your conscience clear. This way you will make people ashamed for saying bad things about your good conduct as a follower of Christ. <a href="/erv/1_peter/3.htm">English Revised Version</a> having a good conscience; that, wherein ye are spoken against, they may be put to shame who revile your good manner of life in Christ. <a href="/gwt/1_peter/3.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Keep your conscience clear. Then those who treat the good Christian life you live with contempt will feel ashamed that they have ridiculed you. <a href="/gnt/1_peter/3.htm">Good News Translation</a> but do it with gentleness and respect. Keep your conscience clear, so that when you are insulted, those who speak evil of your good conduct as followers of Christ will become ashamed of what they say. <a href="/isv/1_peter/3.htm">International Standard Version</a> But do this gently and respectfully, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak evil of your good conduct in the Messiah will be ashamed of slandering you. <a href="/msb/1_peter/3.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you as evildoers may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ. <a href="/net/1_peter/3.htm">NET Bible</a> Yet do it with courtesy and respect, keeping a good conscience, so that those who slander your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame when they accuse you. <a href="/nheb/1_peter/3.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> having a good conscience; so that when they speak evil against you, they may be put to shame who slander your good manner of life in Christ. <a href="/wbt/1_peter/3.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evil-doers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good deportment in Christ. <a href="/wey/1_peter/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Yet argue modestly and cautiously, keeping your consciences free from guilt, so that, when you are spoken against, those who slander your good Christian lives may be put to shame. <a href="/web/1_peter/3.htm">World English Bible</a> having a good conscience. Thus, while you are spoken against as evildoers, they may be disappointed who curse your good way of life in Christ. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_peter/3.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> having a good conscience, so that whenever they speak against you as evildoers, they may be ashamed—[those] who are maligning your good behavior in Christ; <a href="/blb/1_peter/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> having a good conscience, so that in the case that they might speak against you, those reviling your good manner of life in Christ, they shall be ashamed. <a href="/ylt/1_peter/3.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> having a good conscience, that in that in which they speak against you as evil-doers, they may be ashamed who are traducing your good behaviour in Christ; <a href="/slt/1_peter/3.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Having a good consciousness; that, in what they speak evil against you, as doing evil, they threatening your good turning round in Christ should be ashamed.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_peter/3.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> But with modesty and fear, having a good conscience: that whereas they speak evil of you, they may be ashamed who falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. <a href="/cpdv/1_peter/3.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> But do so with meekness and fear, having a good conscience, so that, in whatever matter they may slander you, they shall be confounded, since they falsely accuse your good behavior in Christ. <a href="/nabre/1_peter/3.htm">New American Bible</a> but do it with gentleness and reverence, keeping your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who defame your good conduct in Christ may themselves be put to shame. <a href="/nrsvce/1_peter/3.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> yet do it with gentleness and reverence. Keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_peter/3.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Having a good conscience; so that they who speak evil of you, as of evil doers, may be ashamed as men who belittle your good works in Christ. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/1_peter/3.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> As you have a good conscience, so that those who speak against you as against evil people, may be ashamed as people who reject your beautiful way of life, which is in The Messiah.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/1_peter/3.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> having a good conscience, that, inasmuch as they speak against you as evil-doers, they may be ashamed who traduce your good conduct in Christ.<CM> <a href="/godbey/1_peter/3.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> having a good conscience, in order that, in whatsoever you are calumniated, those traducing your good deportment in Christ may be ashamed. <a href="/haweis/1_peter/3.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> keeping a good conscience; that whereas they malign you, as evil doers, they may be confounded who take pleasure in ridiculing your good conduct in Christ. <a href="/mace/1_peter/3.htm">Mace New Testament</a> always maintaining a good conscience, that instead of inveighing against you as evildoers, they may be cover'd with confusion, who traduce your virtuous behaviour as Christians. <a href="/wey/1_peter/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Yet argue modestly and cautiously, keeping your consciences free from guilt, so that, when you are spoken against, those who slander your good Christian lives may be put to shame. <a href="/worrell/1_peter/3.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> having a good conscience; that, in whatever ye are spoken against, those who revile your good conduct may be put to shame. <a href="/worsley/1_peter/3.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> having a good conscience, that whereas they speak against you as evil-doers, they may be ashamed who calumniate your good conversation in Christ. <a href="/parallel/1_peter/3-16.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1h9-AlUcaGE?start=638" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_peter/3.htm">Suffering for Righteousness</a> …15But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect, 16<a href="/greek/2192.htm" title="2192: echontes (V-PPA-NMP) -- To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.">keeping</a> <a href="/greek/18.htm" title="18: agathēn (Adj-AFS) -- A primary word; good.">a clear</a> <a href="/greek/4893.htm" title="4893: syneidēsin (N-AFS) -- The conscience, a persisting notion. From a prolonged form of suneido; co-perception, i.e. Moral consciousness.">conscience,</a> <a href="/greek/2443.htm" title="2443: hina (Conj) -- In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.">so that</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/3739.htm" title="3739: hō (RelPro-DNS) -- Who, which, what, that. "></a> <a href="/greek/2635.htm" title="2635: katalaleisthe (V-PIM/P-2P) -- To speak evil of, rail at, slander. From katalalos; to be a traducer, i.e. To slander.">those who slander you</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hoi (Art-NMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/1908.htm" title="1908: epēreazontes (V-PPA-NMP) -- To insult, treat wrongfully, molest, revile. From a comparative of epi and areia; to insult, slander."></a> <a href="/greek/2617.htm" title="2617: kataischynthōsin (V-ASP-3P) -- From kata and aischunomai; to shame down, i.e. Disgrace or put to the blush.">may be put to shame</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymōn (PPro-G2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">by your</a> <a href="/greek/18.htm" title="18: agathēn (Adj-AFS) -- A primary word; good.">good</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/391.htm" title="391: anastrophēn (N-AFS) -- Dealing with other men, conduct, life, behavior, manner of life. From anastrepho; behavior.">behavior</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/5547.htm" title="5547: Christō (N-DMS) -- Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.">Christ.</a> 17For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/matthew/5-10.htm">Matthew 5:10-12</a> Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. / Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. / Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you. <a href="/romans/12-17.htm">Romans 12:17-21</a> Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody. / If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone. / Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.” ... <a href="/2_timothy/2-24.htm">2 Timothy 2:24-25</a> And a servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome, but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, and forbearing. / He must gently reprove those who oppose him, in the hope that God may grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth. <a href="/titus/2-7.htm">Titus 2:7-8</a> In everything, show yourself to be an example by doing good works. In your teaching show integrity, dignity, / and wholesome speech that is above reproach, so that anyone who opposes us will be ashamed, having nothing bad to say about us. <a href="/colossians/4-5.htm">Colossians 4:5-6</a> Act wisely toward outsiders, redeeming the time. / Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. <a href="/james/3-13.htm">James 3:13-17</a> Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good conduct, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. / But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth. / Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. ... <a href="/1_corinthians/4-12.htm">1 Corinthians 4:12-13</a> We work hard with our own hands. When we are vilified, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; / when we are slandered, we answer gently. Up to this moment we have become the scum of the earth, the refuse of the world. <a href="/ephesians/4-1.htm">Ephesians 4:1-3</a> As a prisoner in the Lord, then, I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received: / with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, / and with diligence to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. <a href="/philippians/1-27.htm">Philippians 1:27-28</a> Nevertheless, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending together as one for the faith of the gospel, / without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a clear sign of their destruction but of your salvation, and it is from God. <a href="/2_corinthians/8-21.htm">2 Corinthians 8:21</a> For we are taking great care to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord, but also in the eyes of men. <a href="/proverbs/25-21.htm">Proverbs 25:21-22</a> If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. / For in so doing, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you. <a href="/isaiah/50-7.htm">Isaiah 50:7-9</a> Because the Lord GOD helps Me, I have not been disgraced; therefore I have set My face like flint, and I know that I will not be put to shame. / The One who vindicates Me is near. Who will dare to contend with Me? Let us confront each other! Who has a case against Me? Let him approach Me! / Surely the Lord GOD helps Me. Who is there to condemn Me? See, they will all wear out like a garment; the moths will devour them. <a href="/psalms/37-5.htm">Psalm 37:5-6</a> Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it. / He will bring forth your righteousness like the dawn, your justice like the noonday sun. <a href="/proverbs/15-1.htm">Proverbs 15:1</a> A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. <a href="/psalms/34-13.htm">Psalm 34:13-14</a> Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from deceitful speech. / Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.a good.<a href="/1_peter/3-21.htm">1 Peter 3:21</a> The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:<a href="/1_peter/2-19.htm">1 Peter 2:19</a> For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.<a href="/acts/24-16.htm">Acts 24:16</a> And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.whereas.<a href="/1_peter/2-12.htm">1 Peter 2:12</a> Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.<a href="/titus/2-8.htm">Titus 2:8</a> Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.falsely.<a href="/matthew/5-11.htm">Matthew 5:11</a> Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.good.<a href="/1_peter/3-1.htm">1 Peter 3:1,2</a> Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; … <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_peter/2-12.htm">Accuse</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-14.htm">Argue</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-16.htm">Ashamed</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-2.htm">Behaviour</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-15.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/james/2-15.htm">Christian</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-10.htm">Christians</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-19.htm">Conscience</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-18.htm">Consciences</a> <a href="/1_peter/1-18.htm">Conscious</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-2.htm">Conversation</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-9.htm">Curse</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-1.htm">Deportment</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-6.htm">Disappointed</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-13.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-14.htm">Evildoers</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-12.htm">Evil-Doers</a> <a href="/james/5-4.htm">Falsely</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-7.htm">Free</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-13.htm">Good</a> <a href="/james/2-10.htm">Guilt</a> <a href="/james/5-8.htm">Keeping</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-2.htm">Life</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-7.htm">Manner</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-9.htm">Modestly</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-15.htm">Shame</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-1.htm">Slander</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-10.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-6.htm">Way</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-12.htm">Whereas</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-12.htm">Wherein</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-20.htm">Wrong</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/revelation/12-10.htm">Accuse</a> <a href="/jude/1-22.htm">Argue</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-16.htm">Ashamed</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-7.htm">Behaviour</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-18.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-16.htm">Christian</a> <a href="/acts/11-26.htm">Christians</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-21.htm">Conscience</a> <a href="/1_john/3-19.htm">Consciences</a> <a href="/2_peter/1-14.htm">Conscious</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-7.htm">Conversation</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-14.htm">Curse</a> <a href="/2_peter/3-11.htm">Deportment</a> <a href="/job/6-20.htm">Disappointed</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-17.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-17.htm">Evildoers</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-5.htm">Evil-Doers</a> <a href="/1_john/1-6.htm">Falsely</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-19.htm">Free</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-17.htm">Good</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-13.htm">Guilt</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-19.htm">Keeping</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-2.htm">Life</a> <a href="/2_peter/3-11.htm">Manner</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-9.htm">Modestly</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-16.htm">Shame</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-10.htm">Slander</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-4.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/1_peter/5-5.htm">Way</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-11.htm">Whereas</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-20.htm">Wherein</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-17.htm">Wrong</a><div class="vheading2">1 Peter 3</div>1. <a href="/1_peter/3-1.htm">He teaches the duty of wives and husbands to each other;</a> 8. <a href="/1_peter/3-8.htm">exhorting all men to unity and love;</a> 14. <a href="/1_peter/3-14.htm">and to suffer persecution.</a> 19. <a href="/1_peter/3-19.htm">He declares also the benefits of Christ toward the old world.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_peter/3.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_peter/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_peter/3.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>keeping a clear conscience A clear conscience is essential for a believer, as it reflects a life lived in accordance with God's will. In the biblical context, the conscience is the inner sense of right and wrong, informed by the Holy Spirit. Paul also emphasizes the importance of a clear conscience in <a href="/acts/24-16.htm">Acts 24:16</a>, where he strives to maintain a blameless conscience before God and man. The idea is that a clear conscience allows believers to stand firm in their faith, even when facing opposition or persecution.so that those who slander you Slander was a common issue faced by early Christians, as they were often misunderstood and misrepresented by the surrounding pagan culture. The Roman Empire, with its diverse religious practices, viewed Christianity with suspicion. Christians were sometimes accused of atheism for not worshiping the Roman gods, and of subversion for their allegiance to Christ as King. This phrase acknowledges the reality of false accusations and the need for believers to be prepared to respond with integrity.may be put to shame The concept of being put to shame is rooted in the idea of vindication. In the biblical narrative, God often vindicates His people by revealing the truth and exposing falsehood. This is seen in the story of Daniel, where his accusers are ultimately shamed when God delivers Daniel from the lions' den (Daniel 6). The shame here is not about personal revenge but about the hope that the truth of the Gospel will be evident, leading to the repentance and transformation of the accusers.by your good behavior in Christ Good behavior in Christ refers to living a life that reflects the teachings and character of Jesus. This includes the fruits of the Spirit as outlined in <a href="/galatians/5-22.htm">Galatians 5:22-23</a>, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The early church was known for its acts of charity and moral integrity, which often stood in stark contrast to the surrounding culture. This behavior serves as a testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel and can lead others to glorify God, as seen in <a href="/matthew/5-16.htm">Matthew 5:16</a>.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/peter.htm">Peter</a> The apostle Peter, one of Jesus' closest disciples, is the author of this epistle. He writes to encourage and instruct believers facing persecution. 2. <a href="/topical/r/recipients_of_the_epistle.htm">Recipients of the Epistle</a> The letter is addressed to the "elect exiles" scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, regions in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). 3. <a href="/topical/p/persecution_of_early_christians.htm">Persecution of Early Christians</a> The context of this passage is the persecution faced by early Christians, who were often slandered and maligned for their faith.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/m/maintaining_a_clear_conscience.htm">Maintaining a Clear Conscience</a> A clear conscience is vital for a believer's integrity and witness. It involves living in a way that aligns with God's standards, ensuring that our actions and motives are pure. <a href="/topical/r/responding_to_slander_with_good_behavior.htm">Responding to Slander with Good Behavior</a> When faced with slander or false accusations, our response should be characterized by Christ-like behavior. This not only honors God but also serves as a testimony to others. <a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_a_good_testimony.htm">The Power of a Good Testimony</a> A consistent and godly lifestyle can silence critics and bring shame to those who falsely accuse us. Our actions should reflect the transformative power of the Gospel. <a href="/topical/l/living_in_christ.htm">Living in Christ</a> Our behavior should be rooted in our identity in Christ. As we abide in Him, our lives will naturally reflect His character, even in the face of opposition.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_peter_3.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Peter 3</a> <a href="/q/what_is_a_clear_conscience.htm">What defines having a clear conscience?</a> <a href="/q/who_is_the_author_of_genesis.htm">What defines a good conscience?</a> <a href="/q/why_does_christianity_cause_guilt.htm">Why does Christianity make people feel guilty?</a> <a href="/q/what_defines_a_good_conscience.htm">What defines a good conscience?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_peter/3.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(16) Having a good conscience.--This strikes the key-note of the paragraph. How vigorously St. Peter repeats it! "Zealous for that which is good," "for righteousness' sake," "sanctify the Lord," "with meekness and fear," "a good conscience," "your good conversation."Whereas.--The word means precisely the same as in <a href="/1_peter/2-12.htm" title="Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.">1Peter 2:12</a>, where see Note.They speak evil of you, as of evil doers.--Tischendorf follows one of the best manuscripts and the Pesehito-Syriac version in reading whereas ye are evil spoken of. It is easy to see how the ordinary reading would come in, from the similarity of <a href="/1_peter/2-12.htm" title="Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.">1Peter 2:12</a>; and we may pretty confidently adopt the emendation. In any case, the words "as of evil doers" should be removed.They may be ashamed (or, confounded).--When? St. Peter is evidently thinking of the Christian at the bar of the curator or pro-consul, and the mortification of the delator, or spy, who had given information against him.Falsely accuse.--Literally, insult, that is, "odiously calumniate." The word occurs again only in <a href="/luke/6-28.htm" title="Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which spitefully use you.">Luke 6:28</a>.In Christ.--This is the nearest approach in St. Peter to a use of this word as a proper name. Still, it is not so. Other Hebrews, he reminds them in this word, were safe from persecution only by rejecting the national hope of a Messiah. It is simply because these men are "in Christ" that the heathens (perhaps also their fellow Jews) insult their conversation. The phrase "in Christ," i.e., as members of the Church, occurs again in <a href="/1_peter/5-10.htm" title="But the God of all grace, who has called us to his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that you have suffered a while, make you perfect, establish, strengthen, settle you.">1Peter 5:10</a>; <a href="/1_peter/5-14.htm" title="Greet you one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen.">1Peter 5:14</a>, and the thought is common enough in St. John (e.g. <a href="/1_john/5-20.htm" title="And we know that the Son of God is come, and has given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.">1John 5:20</a>), but it does not come in 2 Peter, nor in Hebrews, St. James, or St. Jude. Of course, St. Paul's writings teem with it. It contains the converse side of the Incarnation doctrine to that involved in <a href="/1_peter/3-15.htm" title="But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asks you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:">1Peter 3:15</a>; we not only have the whole Christ dwelling in us, but He embraces us all; "Ye in me, and I in you" (<a href="/john/14-20.htm" title="At that day you shall know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you.">John 14:20</a>). . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_peter/3.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 16. - Having a good conscience. This word "conscience" (συνείδησις) is one of the many links between this Epistle and the writings of St. Paul. St. Peter uses it three times; St. Paul, very frequently. There is a close connection between this clause and the preceding verse. A good conscience is the best reason of the hope that is in us. An apology may be learned, well-expressed, eloquent; but it will not be convincing unless it comes from the heart, and is backed up by the life. Calvin (quoted by Huther) says, "Quid parum auctoritatis habet sermo absque vita." That, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers. The Revised Version follows the Sinaitic Manuscript in reading, "Wherein ye are spoken against," and omitting "as of evil-doers? It is possible that the received reading may have been interpolated from <a href="/1_peter/2-12.htm">1 Peter 2:12</a>, where the same words occur; except that there the mood is indicative, here, conjunctive, "wherein they may possibly speak evil of you." They may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ; rather, as the Revised Version, they may be put to shame; that is, "proved to be liars" (comp. <a href="/2_corinthians/7-14.htm">2 Corinthians 7:14</a>). The word translated "falsely accuse" is that which is rendered "despitefully use" in <a href="/matthew/5-44.htm">Matthew 5:44</a>. <a href="/luke/6-28.htm">Luke 6:28</a>. It is a strong word. Aristotle defines the corresponding substantive as a thwarting of the wishes of others out of gratuitous malice ('Rhet.,' 2:2). For "good conversation," see <a href="/1_peter/1-15.htm">1 Peter 1:15, 18</a>. The Christian's life is in Christ, in the sphere of his presence, he dwelling in us, and we in him (comp. <a href="/2_corinthians/5-17.htm">2 Corinthians 5:17</a>, etc.). <a href="/commentaries/1_peter/3-16.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>keeping ἔχοντες (echontes) Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2192.htm">Strong's 2192: </a> To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold. a clear ἀγαθήν (agathēn) Adjective - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_18.htm">Strong's 18: </a> A primary word; 'good'. conscience, συνείδησιν (syneidēsin) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4893.htm">Strong's 4893: </a> The conscience, a persisting notion. From a prolonged form of suneido; co-perception, i.e. Moral consciousness. so that ἵνα (hina) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2443.htm">Strong's 2443: </a> In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that. those who slander you καταλαλεῖσθε (katalaleisthe) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2635.htm">Strong's 2635: </a> To speak evil of, rail at, slander. From katalalos; to be a traducer, i.e. To slander. will be put to shame καταισχυνθῶσιν (kataischynthōsin) Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Passive - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2617.htm">Strong's 2617: </a> From kata and aischunomai; to shame down, i.e. Disgrace or put to the blush. by your ὑμῶν (hymōn) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. good ἀγαθὴν (agathēn) Adjective - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_18.htm">Strong's 18: </a> A primary word; 'good'. behavior ἀναστροφήν (anastrophēn) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_391.htm">Strong's 391: </a> Dealing with other men, conduct, life, behavior, manner of life. From anastrepho; behavior. in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. Christ. Χριστῷ (Christō) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5547.htm">Strong's 5547: </a> Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_peter/3-16.htm">1 Peter 3:16 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_peter/3-16.htm">1 Peter 3:16 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_peter/3-16.htm">1 Peter 3:16 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_peter/3-16.htm">1 Peter 3:16 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_peter/3-16.htm">1 Peter 3:16 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_peter/3-16.htm">1 Peter 3:16 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_peter/3-16.htm">1 Peter 3:16 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_peter/3-16.htm">1 Peter 3:16 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_peter/3-16.htm">1 Peter 3:16 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_peter/3-16.htm">1 Peter 3:16 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-16.htm">NT Letters: 1 Peter 3:16 Having a good conscience (1 Pet. 1P iP i Pet) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_peter/3-15.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Peter 3:15"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Peter 3:15" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_peter/3-17.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Peter 3:17"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Peter 3:17" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>