1 Peter 3:16
New International Version
keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.

New Living Translation
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.

English Standard Version
having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.

Berean Standard Bible
keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ.

Berean Literal Bible
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.

King James Bible
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.

New King James Version
having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.

New American Standard Bible
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.

NASB 1995
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.

NASB 1977
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.

Legacy Standard Bible
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.

Amplified Bible
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].

Christian Standard Bible
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.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
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.

American Standard Version
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.

Contemporary English Version
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.

English Revised Version
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.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Keep your conscience clear. Then those who treat the good Christian life you live with contempt will feel ashamed that they have ridiculed you.

Good News Translation
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.

International Standard Version
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.

Majority Standard Bible
keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you as evildoers may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ.

NET Bible
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.

New Heart English Bible
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.

Webster's Bible Translation
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.

Weymouth New Testament
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.

World English Bible
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.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
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;

Berean Literal Bible
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.

Young's Literal Translation
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;

Smith's Literal Translation
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.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
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.

Catholic Public Domain Version
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.

New American Bible
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.

New Revised Standard Version
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.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
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.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
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.
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
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.

Godbey New Testament
having a good conscience, in order that, in whatsoever you are calumniated, those traducing your good deportment in Christ may be ashamed.

Haweis New Testament
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.

Mace New Testament
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.

Weymouth New Testament
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.

Worrell New Testament
having a good conscience; that, in whatever ye are spoken against, those who revile your good conduct may be put to shame.

Worsley New Testament
having a good conscience, that whereas they speak against you as evil-doers, they may be ashamed who calumniate your good conversation in Christ.
Audio Bible



Context
Suffering for Righteousness
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, 16keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ. 17For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.…

Cross References
Matthew 5:10-12
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.

Romans 12:17-21
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.” ...

2 Timothy 2:24-25
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.

Titus 2:7-8
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.

Colossians 4:5-6
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.

James 3:13-17
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. ...

1 Corinthians 4:12-13
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.

Ephesians 4:1-3
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.

Philippians 1:27-28
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.

2 Corinthians 8:21
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.

Proverbs 25:21-22
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.

Isaiah 50:7-9
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.

Psalm 37:5-6
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.

Proverbs 15:1
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Psalm 34:13-14
Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from deceitful speech. / Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.


Treasury of Scripture

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.

1 Peter 3:21
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:

1 Peter 2:19
For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.

Acts 24:16
And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.

whereas.

1 Peter 2:12
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.

Titus 2:8
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.

Matthew 5:11
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.

1 Peter 3:1,2
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; …

Jump to Previous
Accuse Argue Ashamed Behaviour Christ Christian Christians Conscience Consciences Conscious Conversation Curse Deportment Disappointed Evil Evildoers Evil-Doers Falsely Free Good Guilt Keeping Life Manner Modestly Shame Slander Speak Way Whereas Wherein Wrong
Jump to Next
Accuse Argue Ashamed Behaviour Christ Christian Christians Conscience Consciences Conscious Conversation Curse Deportment Disappointed Evil Evildoers Evil-Doers Falsely Free Good Guilt Keeping Life Manner Modestly Shame Slander Speak Way Whereas Wherein Wrong
1 Peter 3
1. He teaches the duty of wives and husbands to each other;
8. exhorting all men to unity and love;
14. and to suffer persecution.
19. He declares also the benefits of Christ toward the old world.














keeping a clear conscience
The phrase "keeping a clear conscience" emphasizes the importance of maintaining moral integrity and purity of heart. The Greek word for "conscience" is "syneidēsis," which refers to an internal awareness of moral or ethical standards. In the context of early Christianity, maintaining a clear conscience was crucial for believers facing persecution and false accusations. A clear conscience before God and man serves as a powerful testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel. It reflects a life lived in accordance with God's commandments and the teachings of Jesus Christ, providing inner peace and confidence in the face of external challenges.

so that those who slander you
The phrase "so that those who slander you" acknowledges the reality of opposition and false accusations that Christians may face. The Greek word for "slander" is "katalaleō," meaning to speak against or defame. In the historical context of 1 Peter, early Christians were often misunderstood and maligned by their contemporaries. This phrase serves as a reminder that living a godly life does not exempt believers from criticism or hostility. However, it also implies that the conduct of Christians should be so exemplary that any accusations against them would be unfounded and ultimately discredit the accusers.

may be put to shame
The phrase "may be put to shame" suggests a reversal of roles where the accusers, rather than the accused, are disgraced. The Greek word "kataischunō" means to dishonor or humiliate. In a biblical sense, this shame is not merely about personal embarrassment but a recognition of the truth and righteousness of the believer's conduct. The idea is that the integrity and good works of Christians will eventually reveal the baselessness of the slander, leading to the accusers' own discredit. This reflects a broader biblical principle that God vindicates His people and that truth ultimately prevails over falsehood.

by your good behavior
The phrase "by your good behavior" underscores the importance of living a life that reflects the teachings of Christ. The Greek word for "behavior" is "anastrophē," which refers to one's conduct or way of life. This term is used throughout the New Testament to describe the ethical and moral standards expected of believers. In the context of 1 Peter, "good behavior" is not just about avoiding wrongdoing but actively doing good, demonstrating love, kindness, and integrity. Such behavior serves as a powerful witness to the transformative power of the Gospel and can lead others to glorify God.

in Christ
The phrase "in Christ" is central to understanding the source and motivation for the believer's conduct. The Greek preposition "en" denotes a position or state of being, indicating that the believer's identity and actions are rooted in their relationship with Jesus Christ. This union with Christ is foundational to the Christian life, providing the strength and guidance needed to live righteously. It is through Christ that believers receive the grace and power to maintain a clear conscience and exhibit good behavior. This phrase also highlights the communal aspect of the Christian faith, as believers are united with Christ and with one another in their pursuit of holiness and witness to the world.

(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 1Peter 2:12, 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 1Peter 2:12; 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 Luke 6:28.

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 1Peter 5:10; 1Peter 5:14, and the thought is common enough in St. John (e.g. 1John 5:20), 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 1Peter 3:15; we not only have the whole Christ dwelling in us, but He embraces us all; "Ye in me, and I in you" (John 14:20). . . .

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 1 Peter 2:12, 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. 2 Corinthians 7:14). The word translated "falsely accuse" is that which is rendered "despitefully use" in Matthew 5:44. Luke 6:28. 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 1 Peter 1:15, 18. The Christian's life is in Christ, in the sphere of his presence, he dwelling in us, and we in him (comp. 2 Corinthians 5:17, etc.).

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
keeping
ἔχοντες (echontes)
Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 2192: To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.

a clear
ἀγαθήν (agathēn)
Adjective - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 18: A primary word; 'good'.

conscience,
συνείδησιν (syneidēsin)
Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4893: The conscience, a persisting notion. From a prolonged form of suneido; co-perception, i.e. Moral consciousness.

so that
ἵνα (hina)
Conjunction
Strong's 2443: 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
Strong's 2635: 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
Strong's 2617: 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
Strong's 4771: You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.

good
ἀγαθὴν (agathēn)
Adjective - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 18: A primary word; 'good'.

behavior
ἀναστροφήν (anastrophēn)
Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 391: Dealing with other men, conduct, life, behavior, manner of life. From anastrepho; behavior.

in
ἐν (en)
Preposition
Strong's 1722: 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
Strong's 5547: Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.


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NT Letters: 1 Peter 3:16 Having a good conscience (1 Pet. 1P iP i Pet)
1 Peter 3:15
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