1 Peter 3:14-16 / Be Prepared

Be Resolute.

1 Peter 3:14 ESV

14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled,

Consider the probability of opposition.

That is true of any cause.

However, we have a promise.

You WILL BE BLESSED

WHO does the blessing. (God)

WHEN you will be blessed…

Is that blessing material or spiritual?

Which kind will last?

Your resolve should be expressed through your courage.

“Have nor fear of them”

Come to terms with the reality that…

Death is not the worst thing that can happen to you.

Seems over the top (some face fatal opposition)

Be Prepared.

1 Peter 3:15a ESV

15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,

“… but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you;…

Driving force that cancels out your fear?

Your honor for Christ’s holiness

If you want to have the courage of an apostle

Honor Christ as holy

ALWAYS

Makes demands in your life.

Demands you make it more than something you talk about.

Demands complete devotion

Makes it more than an attribute of your character

It demands it be foundational to your identity.

BE PREPARED to make a defense...

Spiritually

How are you and God doing?

Are your living righteously?

Intellectually

Do know what you believe and why.

… to give a defense for your faith

We owe the world an answer!!!!

Emotionally

Lose your pride! (its not about you)

You love them ….really!

“Dad, why don’t we pray for atheist instead of arguing with them?”

-Becca

The lie of: “I don’t really know enough.”

Jesus took a boys lunch and feed thousands!

GO with what you’ve got!

Be Kind.

1 Peter 3:15b ESV

15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,

Verse 14 is an encouragement not a dare.

We don’t need to entice arguments in search of a blessing.

Don’t see objections as a voice to be silenced

Behind that voice is a soul that needs Jesus.

Don’t argue with the voice. Speak to the soul.

Try to understand them

Understand their

hurt

anger

confusion

See them as Christ does

Don’t simple struggle to treat them lovingly.

But strive to actually love them.

Be Defended.

1 Peter 3:16 ESV

16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.

“… having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.”

Encouragement that...

Even those who disagree with your message can be moved by your kindness.

Keep your conscience clear

You may not win the argument with your words

But by your behavior… you can win the respect of those watching.