1 Peter 3:9

not rendering evil for evil We may probably see in the words a verbal reproduction of the precept of Romans 12:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:15, an echo of the spirit of the teaching of Matthew 5:39. As this clause forbids retaliation in act, so that which follows forbids retaliation in words.

that ye are thereunto called Better, were called, as referring definitely to the fact and time of their conversion.

that ye should inherit a blessing It is not without significance that this is given as the reason for not retaliating. God blesses, therefore we should bless. He forgives us, and therefore we should forgive others. Vindictiveness, in any form, whether in word or act, is at variance with the conditions on which that inheritance is offered and involves therefore its certain forfeiture.