PODCAST
Loving Defense
May 28th, 2022
1 Peter 3:13-22
It may feel that in present days we are more challenged to defend our faith than ever before. Yet, more Christians than ever express that either they don’t know what to say, or they see very little point in saying anything. “No one ever changes their mind, anyway,” they argue.
Peter encourages those who are reading his letter to not only live out the gospel, but to be prepared to defend it. But almost more striking than Peter’s call to defense is his direction in how we must present our answer, “with gentleness and respect.”
Is this the same Peter who blurted out wrong answers and insolent comments to Jesus? Is this the same Peter who cut off the ear of the guard who came to arrest Jesus? Yes, and no.
Peter has been changed, made new. Gone is the rash man who speaks before he thinks and fights with vigor. Here is the leader who spoke with the wisdom of the Spirit and led thousands to Christ.
Peter has learned what we should learn, that if we argue intelligently, yet without love, we do more harm than good. Without love, we are defenseless.
Author: Sarah Kinzer
