16 You are free, but still you are God's servants, and you must not use your freedom as an excuse for doing wrong.
17 Respect everyone and show special love for God's people. Honor God and respect the Emperor.
18 Servants, you must obey your masters and always show respect to them. Do this, not only to those who are kind and thoughtful, but also to those who are cruel.
19 God will bless you, even if others treat you unfairly for being loyal to him.
20 You don't gain anything by being punished for some wrong you have done. But God will bless you, if you have to suffer for doing something good.
21 After all, God chose you to suffer as you follow in the footsteps of Christ, who set an example by suffering for you.
22 Christ did not sinor ever tell a lie.