1 Peter 3

Conduct in marriage; suffering for righteousness' sake; ready to give an answer.

Peter instructs wives to be submissive to their own husbands, even those who do not obey the word, that they may be won without a word by the chaste conduct of their wives. True beauty is not external but "the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit." Husbands are to dwell with their wives with understanding, giving honor as to the weaker vessel and as fellow heirs of the grace of life. All believers are to be of one mind, having compassion, loving as brethren, tender-hearted, and courteous — not returning evil for evil. Peter encourages those who suffer for righteousness, saying believers should "sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear."