The Message Bible MSG
English Standard Version ESV
13 If with heart and soul you're doing good, do you think you can be stopped?
13
Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good?
14 Even if you suffer for it, you're still better off. Don't give the opposition a second thought.
14
But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled,
15 Through thick and thin, keep your hearts at attention, in adoration before Christ, your Master. Be ready to speak up and tell anyone who asks why you're living the way you are, and always with the utmost courtesy.
15
but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,
16 Keep a clear conscience before God so that when people throw mud at you, none of it will stick. They'll end up realizing that they're the ones who need a bath.
16
having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.
17 It's better to suffer for doing good, if that's what God wants, than to be punished for doing bad.
17
For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God's will, than for doing evil.
Published by permission. Originally published by NavPress in English as THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson. All rights reserved.
The English Standard Version is published with the permission of Good News Publishers.