GIVE A DEFENSE OF YOUR HOPE
(By Joe R. Price)

The ability to “give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear” is not inborn (1 Pet. 3:15). “Defense” is translated from apologia which is a “speech in defense” (Thayer, 65). Such a defense of one's hope is to be “a reasoned statement or argument” (Online Bible Greek Lexicon). It requires deliberate faith and diligent study to learn the word of God (2 Tim. 2:15). God expects us to learn God's word, so we are equipped to answer those who challenge our hope in Christ. We need to prepare ourselves to give the answers God has revealed in the Scriptures to effectively persuade others to follow Christ and share in our hope (Eph. 6:15; 2 Tim. 3:16-17). To accomplish this, Christ must rule in our hearts so that our “defense” is not of ourselves but of the Savior (1 Pet. 3:15).

We will face many circumstances when we teach the gospel to others. God's word does not change due to cultural circumstances or societal situations. Everyone needs to hear the same truth. Nevertheless, the events of each person's life bring uniqueness to every encounter. For instance, Peter's “defense” to the Jews on Pentecost in Acts 2 differs significantly from the “defense” Paul gave the Athenians in Acts 17. The same need existed, and the same gospel was preached, but different issues were addressed. Both addressed the specific needs of their audiences. If we think there is a “one size fits all” approach to giving a defense of our hope, then we should ponder the guidance these examples give us.

Please notice: “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one” (Col. 4:6). Each opportunity to “give a defense” of the gospel requires us to grasp the need of the moment. If we are talking with an atheist, the defense of our hope will be much different from what we say to a fellow Christian who needs to be exhorted to greater faithfulness (Heb. 10:23-24). The Lord expects us to consider the needs of the hearer when we answer our hope. This is some of the “grace” and “salt” with which to flavor our speech when we speak to others about their souls (Col. 4:6; Eph. 4:29).

The way we “give a defense” depends in part on the person to whom the defense is being given. For example: “Do not answer a fool according to his folly, lest you also be like him. Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own eyes” (Prov. 26:4-5). This is not a contradiction. Instead, we are called upon to make judgments on which to proceed in teaching and answering a person. Such assessments require wisdom, a wisdom that often comes from experience. Paul provided an example of this when he responded to opponents of the truth (2 Cor. 11:1, 16-21).

We should also consider the nature of our defense when others ask about our hope. Do we appeal to personal emotions to support our beliefs and practices? If so, we are not defending the gospel; We are defending ourselves (Jer. 10:23; Prov. 14:12). Do we appeal to our tradition (“the way we've always done things”)? If so, we are not directing people to the apostolic tradition (2 Thess. 2:15). Do we defend a personal conviction without giving Biblical support? If so, we fail to follow the apostle's instruction.

The defense of our hope is only valid if it comes from a “thus saith the Lord” (1 Pet. 4:11; Phil. 1:7, 17-18). It must be a defense borne from inspired Scriptures, for they establish truth and are the sure foundation for saving faith (Rom. 1:16; 10:17; 2 Tim. 3:16-17). Our defense is intended to save the lost with the gospel of Jesus (Acts 8:31-35). Our defense includes contending for the faith against error and sin (Jude 3). Our defense warns souls of the dangers of sin and false teaching (Ezek. 3:17; Acts 20:20, 29-31). “Dumb (mute) dogs” that refuse to warn souls of the dangers of sin are irresponsible and harm the cause of Christ (Isa. 56:10-11).

The defense you make to others will affect their salvation and yours (1 Pet. 3:16; 1 Tim. 4:16). So, pay attention to the answers you give others and how you give them. Use wisdom, speak graciously, and meet the need of the moment with Scripture. With such answers, we seek the spiritual welfare of others. By speaking the truth in love, we “give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear” (Eph. 4:15; 1 Pet. 3:15). By doing so, you can have a good conscience even if they defame you and revile your good conduct in Christ (1 Pet. 3:16).