¹⁵ But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer^(A) to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope^(B) that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, ¹⁶ keeping a clear conscience,^(C) so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.^(D)