A Ready Answer
30 Days in 1st Peter - day 20
One of Peter’s primary concerns throughout this letter is evangelistic. He even sees suffering as an opportunity for witness. In this passage he exhorts Christians to “always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you.”
While no one wants to be criticized, mocked, or defamed for their faith, these kinds of attacks can become the best opportunity to display the reality of our Christian hope.
Peter calls us to certain attitudes and responses when persecution comes. If we respond well, our hope in Christ will become more evident. But our response will depend upon our spiritual preparation. We must resist the powerful temptation to give in to fear. Instead, we must take up the shield of faith.
When Peter asks, “Who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good?” he is not suggesting that no harm can come to you. That would contradict the whole tone of this letter. He is referring to ultimate or eternal harm. The very next verse clarifies this for us:
“But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed.”
In other words, no suffering—even suffering unto death—can remove the blessing of God in Christ. Eternity will prove that your faith was worth it all. When you believe that promise, you win the battle over fear, and your hope becomes visible to those who watch your life.
Then keep a clear conscience. Do not give your critics good reasons for their accusations. Do the will of God and conduct yourself honorably.
These things form a solid foundation on which you can build your case for Christ. A holy life is the best defense of your faith. This does not mean we never speak. It means our verbal witness is strengthened by a life filled with good works.
Out of this kind of life, Peter tells us to be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks why we have hope. The word he uses is the basis for our modern term apologetics. Apologetics is the work of giving a reasoned defense of the Christian faith.
Peter is not saying we must all go to seminary or become professional debaters. He is simply reminding us that our faith is reasonable and that every Christian should be prepared to explain why we trust Christ.
We have good reasons for our hope in Jesus Christ.
Be ready to explain them.
Not to win debates, but to win souls to Christ.
And never forget—the hope we defend is the hope that will one day prove true.
