Defending the Hope That Is In You

Early in my Christian experience, before I knew the definition of apologetics, I sensed the need for an adequate apologetic for every accusation against, and question to, the Christian faith. There were so many people who did not know God, and there were so many questions that seemed to stand between them and God. If their questions could be answered clearly, rationally, intelligently, and kindly, these students would then stand convinced and would become believers.

I set myself the task of getting the right answers. Before I became accomplished in this pursuit, I began to have doubts. The doubts arose as I began to practice my growing knowledge in face-to-face encounters (arguments) or large bull sessions. It was great fun arguing. It was more fun winning the argument. But there weren’t any results. Part of the problem was that I found it difficult to be kind while I was being methodically rational and clear in my presentation.

There was another problem. It seemed that most of the people who had questions didn’t really want answers to their questions. They just wanted to have questions. This contradicted an assumption I had made that people who had questions wanted answers.

"But in your hearts reverence Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who calls you to account for the hope that is in you, yet do it with gentleness and reverence; and keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are abused, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame” (1 Peter 3:15-16).

This is the kind of question we should generate, answer, and answer with gentleness and respect.

Written May 1986.

This post coordinates with today's reading in the Same Page Summer Bible Reading Challenge. If you are not in a daily reading plan, please join us at TotheWord.com. We would love to have you reading with us.

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