12 Your conduct among the heathen should be so good that when they accuse you of being evildoers, they will have to recognize your good deeds and so praise God on the Day of his coming.
13 For the sake of the Lord submit to every human authority: to the Emperor, who is the supreme authority,
14 and to the governors, who have been appointed by him to punish the evildoers and to praise those who do good.
15 For God wants you to silence the ignorant talk of foolish people by the good things you do.
16 Live as free people; do not, however, use your freedom to cover up any evil, but live as God's slaves.
17 Respect everyone, love your fellow-believers, honour God, and respect the Emperor.
18 You servants must submit to your masters and show them complete respect, not only to those who are kind and considerate, but also to those who are harsh.