In 1 Peter 2:12, Christians are instructed to keep their behavior excellent among those who are not yet Christians so that they will glorify God. These Christians were being mistreated at the time of this writing, so some might ask, “What do you mean by ‘excellent?’” From 1 Peter 2:13 to 1 Peter 3:12, Peter describes what excellence looks like for various groups of Christians:
All people should submit to the governing authorities that are in place over them (1 Pet. 2:13-17).
Slaves should submit to their masters (1 Pet. 2:18-20).
Wives should submit to the leadership of their husbands (1 Pet. 3:1-6).
Husbands should show honor to their wives as they lead them (1 Pet. 3:7).
Rather than continuing to detail every possible relationship, Peter summarizes the way every relationship should be handled, beginning in 1 Peter 3:8:
To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing. For, “The one who desires life, to love and see good days, must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit. He must turn away from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous, and His ears attend to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” (1 Peter 3:8-12, NASB95).
This description of excellence is still what guides Christian behavior today. Those who desire to be heard by God and inherit His blessings in eternity will choose this excellence. Consider your relationships, think about your mission with the gospel, and behave excellently toward all for the glory of God.