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NASB | 1 Peter 3:15 but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence; |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 Peter 3:15 But in your hearts set Christ apart [as holy--acknowledging Him, giving Him first place in your lives] as Lord. Always be ready to give a [logical] defense to anyone who asks you to account for the hope and confident assurance [elicited by faith] that is within you, yet [do it] with gentleness and respect. [Is 8:12, 13] |
Subject: Apologetics for every Christian? |
Bible Note: Hello again, Lionstrong! I believe that every Christian should be involved in the work of apologetics. It is truly unfortunate that many Christians today seem to be secret-agent Christians who have never "blown their cover" before an unregenerate world. The fact is, many Christians have little or no impact on their world for Christ or for Christian values. The task of apologetics begins with a single person- you. "Apologetics" comes from the Greek word apologia, which means 'defense.' Apologetics focuses on the defense of Christianity. Apologetics provides well-reasoned evidences to the nonbeliever as to why he should choose Christianity. Apologetics can be used to show the unbeliever that all other options really aren't options at all, since they are false. Apologetics can remove the mental roadblocks that prevent nonbelievers from responding to the gospel. Not only does it provide a defense for the faith, it also provides security to Christians who need to be sure that their faith is not a blind leap, but faith founded on fact. It is grounds for our faith and demonstrates why we believe what we believe. No wonder God calls each of us to "contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints" (Jude 3). We must 'tell it like it is', taking Martin Luther's example. And you and I are called to give answers (1 Peter 3:15). The only way to be always prepared to give an answer is to have become equipped with answers. :) Nolan |