“For it is the will of God that by your good conduct you should put ignorance and stupidity to silence. Live as free men; not however as though your freedom were there to provide a screen for wrongdoing, but as slaves in God’s service.”
Don’t do wrong in your freedom. As you conduct yourselves well, you silence ignorance. Not only that, but “who is going to do you wrong if you are devoted to what is good?” asks Peter. “And yet if you should suffer for your virtues, you may count yourselves happy. Have no fear of them: do not be perturbed, but hold the Lord Christ in reverence in your hearts.” (1 Peter 3: 13-14)
Don’t live in fear. “Be always ready with your defence whenever you are called to account for the hope that is in you, but make that defence with modesty and respect. Keep your conscience clear, so that when you are abused, those who malign your Christian conduct may be put to shame. It is better to suffer for well-doing.” (1 Peter 3: 15-17)
Don’t live in anger. “If Christ’s Name is flung in your teeth as an insult, count yourselves happy, because then that glorious Spirit which is the Spirit of God is resting upon you.” (1 Peter 4: 14)
