1 Peter 3:13–17 ‘Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.’ (v15)
If you love talking about the defence of Christianity over against alternative approaches, then verse 15 is your verse. Many Christian apologists, who give reasons for their hope, point to this verse as justification!
Giving reasons for faith is a necessary part of our walk with Christ, but the context is that the believers to whom Peter was writing were suffering for their faith. It was these believers that Peter says are ‘blessed’ and don’t need to be fearful (v14), but instead acknowledge Jesus is Lord.
With that attitude, which will be so distinctive, we are then prepared to give people reasons for the hope we have because they will ask questions of us. The powerful apologetic comes not so much as words defending the faith but from a life which speaks of God.
As outsiders to the faith see how you put Jesus first in your life in spite of suffering, and perhaps even in spite of suffering they have caused, they will have no grid for understanding how someone could behave in that way. Some will be impressed to ask you what’s going on.
Stories are told of Christians in Mozambique who were about to lose their lives and told their persecutors that if they killed them there will be many others prepared to take their place!
It is no surprise that revival gripped parts of Mozambique as many realised the reality of the truth that was being preached, and were prepared even to die for the cause and become believers themselves. Are you prepared to share the reason for your hope, even if it costs you?
A Prayer To Make:
‘Thank You, Lord, that You can do extraordinary things through the suffering of Your people. It isn’t easy, so please give me grace to stay sweet. Amen.’
An Action To Take:
If and when suffering comes, determine to make Jesus Lord and see what happens in the lives of others.
Scripture To Consider:
Dan. 6:16–28; Esther 4:9–17; Acts 17:22–34 & 26:24–32
