Our scripture this morning is 1 Peter 3:15-18.
But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit.
Peter writes that we must “always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” Speaking about our faith and telling everyone what Jesus has done springs from the forgiveness we have received through His sacrifice. We want everyone to know Jesus and accept the salvation He bought for us.
Our testimony to the world is not done timidly but “with gentleness and respect”, as Jesus taught us. While Jesus always had the right answer, He was patient with us, especially with those who struggled to understand. We must share our faith in the same way, inviting and explaining, not arguing or condemning.
Jesus was “put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit.” He was innocent but suffered for us willingly. We are called to bear the suffering of the world in patient perseverance as He did, knowing that He has prepared a place for us in His Father’s house.
Loving Lord, in Your mercy You sent Jesus to love and save and free us. Bless us to be the face of Your love, sharing the joy of redemption with all. Amen.
