1 Peter 3:17

17 For it is better that you should suffer for doing right, if such be God's will, than for doing evil;

1 Peter 3:17 Meaning and Commentary

1 Peter 3:17

For it is better, if the will of God be so
For all things are ordered by the will of God, even all the sufferings and afflictions of the saints; and which is a reason why they ought to be patiently submitted to, and bore: and "better" it is, more honourable and profitable,

that ye suffer for well doing;
for believing in Christ, professing him and his Gospel, giving a free and open reason for so doing, and for exercising a good conscience, and living godly in Christ Jesus:

than for evil doing;
as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or a busy body in other men's matters, ( 1 Peter 4:15 1 Peter 4:16 ) .

1 Peter 3:17 In-Context

15 but in your hearts consecrate Christ as Lord, being always ready to make your defence to any one who asks from you a reason for the hope which you cherish.

16 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.

17 For it is better that you should suffer for doing right, if such be God's will, than for doing evil;

18 because Christ also once for all died for sins, the innocent One for the guilty many, in order to bring us to God. He was put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit,

19 in which He also went and proclaimed His Message to the spirits that were in prison,