14. and the leaders who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to praise those who do right.
15. It is God’s desire that by doing good you should stop foolish people from saying stupid things about you.
16. Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as an excuse to do evil. Live as servants of God.
17. Show respect for all people: Love the brothers and sisters of God’s family, respect God, honor the king.
18. Slaves, yield to the authority of your masters with all respect, not only those who are good and kind, but also those who are dishonest.
19. A person might have to suffer even when it is unfair, but if he thinks of God and can stand the pain, God is pleased.
20. If you are beaten for doing wrong, there is no reason to praise you for being patient in your punishment. But if you suffer for doing good, and you are patient, then God is pleased.
21. This is what you were called to do, because Christ suffered for you and gave you an example to follow. So you should do as he did.