Scripture

If someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way.

Observation

We should be of one mind, loving each other as brothers and sisters in the Lord.

We should never repay evil for evil, but instead bless those who insult us. As it says in Psalm 34, we must turn away from evil and do good. The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, but the Lord turns His face against those who do evil.

If we suffer for doing what is right, God will reward us. If someone asks about the reason for our hope, we should be ready to explain it. We should do this in a loving and respectful way.

Application

Many christians are afraid to share their faith because they do not know how to do it or because they are unsure if they will be able to answer questions. This is understandable.

Peter says here that we should be always ready to explain the hope that we have in Christ. In other words, he is not talking about street preaching. This is about normal everyday conversations. We don’t want to harass a person with our beliefs, but if asked, we need to be ready.

A short testimony can be helpful. Your story cannot be dismissed as it is your story. Prepare in your head a brief description of how you became a Christian and the big difference that Christ has made in your life.

Many people these days have a wrong or distorted opinion of what Christians believe. Learn a brief summary of what salvation is about.

Remember not to argue. We want to win a person not an argument. Above all, ask God for the grace to share with your friends and family.

Prayer

Lord, thank you for saving me. Please help me to share the Good News with the people around me. Amen.