“But sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence” (1 Peter 3:15).
We began this series with the passage above. As Christians, we need to be ready to give an answer for what we believe and why we believe it. This requires not just a firm understanding of such things (which necessitates us studying the Scriptures), but also an idea of what type of questions we may face so that we can prepare as best we can.
The twelve questions we have discussed in this series are common questions that are fundamental to what we believe and practice as Christians. The answers we have discussed were not exhaustive, yet this was intentional. The purpose was to give all of us – regardless of whether we are mature Christians or new converts – some basic points that we can use to begin our discussions with others. Of course, follow-up questions may come up that will require additional study or help; but this material is meant to provide a good starting point for anyone.
There are many other potential questions that we might also face – questions about the nature of faith, God’s design for the home, principles of Christian living, etc. If we encounter a question we are unprepared to answer, there is nothing wrong with taking time to find the answer and get back with the one who asked the question – especially if it means we can show them in the Bible what the answer is.
How should we go about answering other potential questions? We can follow the same formula we have tried to follow throughout these lessons:
- Understand the question – We cannot give a helpful answer if we miss the point of someone’s query.
- Go to the Bible – The word of God is where we will find the truth (Psalm 119:160; John 17:17). If the topic is one in which God has revealed His will to man, it will be found in the Scriptures.
- Start with four (or so) basic points – If it is necessary to go deeper into a topic, we can always do so later. The main goal of the initial response should be to lay a foundation for further study and discussion.
Finally, remember the attitude that we are to have in this. Peter said we are to be “ready to make a defense…with gentleness and reverence” (1 Peter 3:15). Gentleness refers to our attitude toward the other person while reverence refers to our attitude toward God. As we answer questions about the Bible and the hope that we have as Christians, let us be mindful that in doing so we are trying to help the other person (by leading them to the truth) and honor God (by faithfully representing Him and His word).
We will never have an answer to every potential question that could be posed to us. However, let us not allow that to deter us from doing what Peter talked about in this verse. Let us be eager to answer, diligent to prepare, humble in our discussions, and faithful to the Lord as we try to lead others to the truth of His word.
