behavior in Christ may be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil” (1 Pet. 3:16–17). And so we end where we began. Remember, Peter opened this paragraph with the words, “Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed” (vv. 13–14). Now we have come full circle. By framing the discussion with suffering on either side, Peter makes it clear that
Page 47