1 Peter 3
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1 Peter 3:15, 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…
If you haven’t done so already, it’s worth reading the whole text. Peter is outlining how believers should behave in order for nonbelievers to be won over to the faith. The first part of the chapter refers to wives of unbelieving husbands. Remember, this must all be taken in context. At the time and in that culture, women had few (if any) rights and were basically treated as possessions. Keeping that in mind, Peter implores the believing wives of unbelievers to submit to their husbands in a way that highlight the love and grace of Jesus Christ, so that these men might eventually believe. Peter isn’t condoning the patriarchal culture, nor is he trying to undo it (that would be pretty difficult in their setting) but he simply wants to create structures that lead more people to Jesus. That is his primary motivation – leading more people to Jesus Christ.
The rest of the chapter discusses the need to do good, to be compassionate, and be humble, so that people will be introduced to Jesus. Again, the motivation is leading more people to Jesus. This leads to our focus verse for today. When the believers were kind, loving, generous, compassionate, and hope-filled, people outside the church would certainly notice. Peter says to be ready to explain the source of the hope, that is a living relationship with Jesus Christ. Don’t be preachy about it (“…do this with gentleness and respect…”) but be clear and express the why behind the action.
That being said, are you ready to explain the source of your hope? If you did something incredibly kind for a neighbor and they asked why you did it, what would you say? Pray about this, maybe even practice your answer so you will be ready to explain the source of your hope, Jesus Christ!
Let’s pray…Dear Jesus, Our hope is built totally and completely on you. Please give us openings to share our hope in you. May your Spirit give us the right words at the right time and help us NEVER to shy away from sharing about you. In Your Name, Amen.