Two Needs (1 Peter 3:15-16)

1 Peter 3:15-16

15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.

            The above passage is often one we go to when we think about defending our faith.  Christians need to be able to give an account of their faith.  It is important that we know how to answer questions that people have about the hope we have.

            But it seems that we often miss the ending of this passage.  We are to be able and ready to give an answer to those who question our faith, but we are to do so with gentleness and respect.  That means that we are not snotty when we answer the questions and objections of those who have genuine questions and objections.  We are not harsh.  We must not be rude.  We are to be respectful and kind.

            So, ask yourself which category most needs help in your life.  Do you need help to be able to answer those who have questions about your faith?  Is study your need?  Or, is it more that you need to learn to treat others with greater kindness and respect?  Is God calling you to find ways to present your answers with greater gentleness and respect?