all those in authority: These are people with the power to either persecute or protect the church (see also Romans 13:1–7; 1 Peter 2:13–17).
lead tranquil and quiet lives: The goal is not that Christians hide. The goal is to show the beauty of the good news about Jesus through Christian living. It is also important to continue the church's mission without unnecessary problems (see 2 Timothy 3:12; 1 Peter 3:13–17).
in all godliness: The word godliness and its related terms summarize the beliefs, attitudes, and lifestyles that align with true knowledge of God, obeying him, and genuine worship (also at 1 Timothy 3:16; 4:7–8; 5:4; 6:3, 5–6, 11).