In our Western world the term shame
refers to a sense of embarrassment or even guilt. In Peter’s day (as also in the Old Testament), the term implied a loss of social status so as to be vulnerable to an enemy’s ridicule. The reference, then, is not to emotion (what you feel) but to standing (how others see you). As the Christian gives his explanation for the hope within, his interrogator is meant to come away from the discussion with a sense of his own weakness and of the Christian’s strength in Christ. That in turn will prompt the reviler to think twice before he continues his reviling. It may even lead to his seeking the same hope you have.
16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.