^{10 Ref} In the past you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; then there was no mercy for you, but now mercy has been given to you.

^{11 Ref} My loved ones, I make this request with all my heart, that, as those for whom this world is a strange country, you will keep yourselves from the desires of the flesh which make war against the soul;

^{12 Ref} Being of good behaviour among the Gentiles; so that though they say now that you are evil-doers, they may see your good works and give glory to God when he comes to be their judge.

^{13 Ref} Keep all the laws of men because of the Lord; those of the king, who is over all,

^{14 Ref} And those of the rulers who are sent by him for the punishment of evil-doers and for the praise of those who do well.

^{15 Ref} Because it is God's pleasure that foolish and narrow-minded men may be put to shame by your good behaviour:

^{16 Ref} As those who are free, not using your free position as a cover for wrongdoing, but living as the servants of God;

^{17 Ref} Have respect for all, loving the brothers, fearing God, honouring the king.

^{18 Ref} Servants, take orders from your masters with all respect; not only if they are good and gentle, but even if they are bad-humoured.

^{19 Ref} For it is a sign of grace if a man, desiring to do right in the eyes of God, undergoes pain as punishment for something which he has not done.