having good behavior among the nations, so in that of which they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they see, glorify God in the day of visitation.

or to governors, as sent by him for vengeance on evildoers and for praise to those who do well.

Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.

For it is better, if the will of God should will it, to suffer as well-doers than as evildoers;

But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or an evildoer, or a meddler in the affairs of others.

not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing; but, on the contrary, blessing the evildoer; because for this end ye were called, that ye might inherit blessing.