Always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.
1 Peter 3:15
testimony of hope
Do you remember cramming (studying) for an exam? Are you trying to somehow connect your memory to all the details written in the textbook or recorded in your class notes? You knew that if you didn’t have a grasp on most of the material, you would bring home news of less than desirable test scores or perhaps failing grades.
Peter is not talking about a test when he says, “Always be ready to give an answer.” He’s talking about an opportunity! A God given! The Lord is bringing into your presence or opening the door to someone who doesn’t know what you have—Hope!
When your unbelieving neighbor sees you living your life for Christ – “letting your light shine” – he is amazed. “What is the reason for this apparent happiness?” “Where does this generosity of patience and love come from?” “Why are you so full of hope?” Aah! opportunity!
This passage addresses the topic of testimony! Of preaching religion! About sharing the good news that has brought you a certain and sure hope, but it is for everyone! And the apostle says, “Always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope you have.”
Are you ready to do this? You may be more prepared than you think! You know what Jesus has done for you. You know why He died on the cross. You know the meaning of His resurrection. You know that eternal life is already yours. You know that He is coming back to judge the living and the dead. You know that blessed are those who die in Christ. And that means you also know that those who die without Jesus have no hope.
Paul wrote to the Corinthian Christians, “We believe.” “And so speak.” Christian hope needs to find expression. There is a need to answer the questions raised by our unbelieving friends. Christ’s love compels us to share our hope with him. They must hear the gospel!
Prayer:
Lord, open my lips to share my hope in You. Amen.
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All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used with permission from Zondervan. All rights reserved world wide.
