You once were not a people, but now you are God’s people. You were shown no mercy, but now you have received mercy.

You know that from your empty way of life inherited from your ancestors you were ransomed – not by perishable things like silver or gold,

Slaves, be subject to your masters with all reverence, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are perverse.

For it says in scripture, “Look, I lay in Zion a stone, a chosen and priceless cornerstone, and whoever believes in him will never be put to shame.”

And this prefigured baptism, which now saves you – not the washing off of physical dirt but the pledge of a good conscience to God – through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,

He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we may cease from sinning and live for righteousness. By his wounds you were healed.