Our scripture this morning is 1 Peter 3:13-18.
Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats. Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. Remember, it is better to suffer for doing good, if that is what God wants, than to suffer for doing wrong! Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit.
Peter brings up a very important point in verse 15 – “And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it.” Jesus has called every one of us to be part of His ministry, sharing the Gospel with the world. It is especially important that we be ready to explain our faith when asked.
People often say “this is hard for me, I’m not a public speaker.” Perhaps whoever is asking doesn’t need a sermon, just a personal response from one who knows the savior. An explanation of your relationship with Jesus may mean more to them than a lesson from a religious scholar. Those who are seeking need to be told “in a gentle and respectful way” as Peter says.
Think about how you would testify to your connection to Christ and be ready to share a simple statement about what your faith means to you. Pray about being able to share your belief, knowing the Holy Spirit is always with you for help and guidance. Always be ready to use the gifts we are all given to make disciples of all nations.
Loving Lord, we are sorry when our faith is timid and silent. Help us to be bold believers, going in Your name to tell the world of Your saving grace. Amen.