never returning evil for evil or abuse for abuse, but blessing instead, because it was for this that you were called, to obtain the blessing of heirs.

and keep your conscience clear, so that those who bitterly abuse your excellent conduct as Christians may be ashamed of slandering you.

They are astonished that you are not still rushing hand in hand with them into the same excesses of profligate living, and they abuse you for it;

If you are suffering abuse because you bear the name of Christ, you are happy, because the glorious Spirit of God is resting upon you.