1 Peter 3:15: Arousing curiosity

5 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,NIV

I find it interesting that this statement comes in a section where Peter is writing about how we are to live in the world as believers (vv 8-17), and this may be summarised as ‘’doing good’’ (17). In that context, Peter implies, people will ask you questions. They will want to know why you are different.

I heard a lovely, faithful Christian man say quite unselfconsciously that, at work, people tend to ask him questions about his faith. Knowing this man a little, I’m not surprised. I’m sure he quietly shines, and there is something attractive about a genuine Christian life, even though many may hate and oppose the Christian. If we live as disciples of Jesus in this world, our lives will arouse curiosity.

However, it is unlikely that we will be prepared to speak about our faith, and possibly suffer for it, if we have not first yielded to the Lordship of Jesus.

‘In our hearts Christ must be the Lord. It must not be we who reign in our hearts, but Christ. No longer can we Christians do what we want; we must do only what He wants. We are no longer the ruler of our lives: He is…If someone shows even a little interest, let us be ready to share our faith with him.Many Christians remain silent. Why? Are we ashamed of our Lord? Are we afraid of man?’ Tom Hale: ‘The Applied New Testament Commentary’, p.915.

PRAYER: Lord, with your help, may we so live that people are drawn to you. Equip us, please, so that we say the right words at the right time.