“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.” — 1 Peter 3:15
Defense For The Hope
Have you ever heard the statement, “The best defense is a good offense”? It’s an old adage that has been applied to war and sports. It suggests that the best way to defend against your opponent is to provide a strong, proactive offense versus a more passive response. In most sports, teams need to have a balanced approach with their offense and defense, but the fans love to see a strong offense. Whether it’s runaway dunks, touchdowns or home runs, people love to see a good offense.
The Christian life does not parallel the way of the world. I’ve met many followers of Jesus that have chosen the route of consistently being on the offensive in their approach to proclaiming Jesus, and at times they become offensive. I believe we need to be initiators like Jesus was with others, but do so as 1 Peter 3:15 states: “with gentleness and respect.”
When we allow Jesus to be the Lord of our hearts, we will make ourselves ready to provide a great defense for the hope that is within us. We will study, know and memorize His Word so that the truth is in us. We will look for opportunities to love others so that we can point them to Jesus. The Lord will provide points of connection so they can see Jesus in us. Jesus will prod our hearts to pray continually for those who need to have their sins forgiven.
That’s our offense.
— Mickey Weston, Chicago White Sox chaplain
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