3:15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2001). (1 Pe 3:15). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.
Does your life produce the necesssary evidence to be convicted of being a Christian? This commonly used apologetics question comes to life in 1 Peter 3:15. As the increasing threat of persecution becomes more of a reality, the opportunity for the Christ-follower to live out the Gospel will increase. The critical starting point, according to 1 Peter 3:15, is the heart!
The heart-felt submission to Christ as King spurs one on toward actions that hold His name in the highest regard. The fear of the Lord and the Lordship of Christ will rule and define one’s actions and intentions. The motivation to share the Gospel, and the endurance to withstand persecution are rooted in a sincere passion for Christ and His Word. Since it is His love that compels and saves us, we should be driven to share Jesus with love.
Being able to share Jesus calls for preparation. Every beleiver should be a student of the Word, and be aware of culture. The defense that Peter mentions is similar in verbage to a legal defense offered to a judge. Our life and words should be so convincing and solid in our position that our faith can be defended.
Many extremists damage our name by their conduct in a failure to recognize the spirit of our defense, as described in 1 Peter 3;15. Defending with gentleness and respect does not accommodate physical attacks, abuse, etc. The grace which we can communicate and exhibit is often the key ingredient that religions are missing. It is our grace and love that can compel people of other religions to be open to the Gospel. This does not mean that Christians should be defenseless and quiet. This does not mean that Christians should be tolerant of all religions and sin to the extent that we do not stand for truth. It does mean that our words and methods should be covered with grace.
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