1 Peter 3:16 But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ.How can we keep a clear conscience?
In 1 Pet. 3:15 it tells us two ways to do this:
1. By setting apart Christ Jesus as Holy in our hearts.
2. By acknowledging Christ as Lord
1. By setting apart Christ Jesus as Holy in our hearts:
This means that “it is not that I liveth but Christ that liveth in me”, who is Holy, Blameless and Righteous. As for me I am hidden behind Christ and when accusation and problems come upon us it is Christ who deals with it. For it says in verse 18 that “For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous,”
2. By acknowledging Christ as Lord:
We should acknowledge the Lord at all time which will become the source for you defense. For example John 8:1-11, when Christ asked anyone without sin should throw the first stone and no one did. 1 Peter3:12 & 13 its says For the eyes of the Lord is upon the righteous (those who are upright and in right stand with God) and his ears are attentive to their prayers. Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?
Verse 14 and 15 reminds us that But even in case you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, [you are] blessed (happy, to be envied). Do not dread or be afraid of their threats, nor be disturbed [by their opposition]. But in your hearts set Christ apart as holy [and acknowledge Him] as Lord. Always be ready to give a logical defense to anyone who asks you to account for the hope that is in you, but do it courteously and respectfully.
When set Christ as Holy in our hearts we will find that our lives will be changed. We will find ourselves trying to lead a clear conscience life. And when we set Christ as the Lord in our life he will take over every aspect of our lives. He will defend our cause in front of the people who accuse us and try to put us down. Only Lord who is all and sole controller of your life can aid you in the midst of accusations and trials. Let us then acknowledge him as Lord and anchor our trust on him. But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. (1 Pet 3:16)
Verses taken from Amplified Version as well as New Living Translation.