Be Ready
But in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, ready at any time to give defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.
1 Peter 3:15 (CSB)
We never know when an evangelistic opportunity might arise. One day, while pumping gas, someone at another pump could ask a question that leads to a Gospel conversation. Or a co-worker might inquire why your lifestyle and actions differ from common societal norms, opening the door for sharing the Gospel. These moments are opportunities for evangelism. The Lord teaches us to stay prepared so we can seize these times and share the Good News.
We must get ready. The capacity to seize evangelistic opportunities starts with preparation. This readiness is rooted in a personal relationship with Jesus. We prepare by studying the Word of God, praying, and training ourselves to respond. As we grow spiritually, we better equip ourselves for the evangelistic tasks ahead and for the opportunities when they come.
We must always be prepared to provide a defense. Preparation involves practical application. When we only prepare alone, we gather knowledge without the intention to share with others. Living prepared means staying attentive to opportunities around us. We combat distractions and look for moments to share Christ, seeking ways to engage in Gospel conversations in everything we do. We pray for the Lord to open doors for these opportunities and to help us recognize them when they come. Being ready to defend our faith means always being prepared to share Jesus with others.
We need to be prepared to defend our faith. Peter wrote: “ready at any time to give defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.” This does not mean believers are excused from sharing Christ. Instead, it calls for preparation and faithfulness, expecting us to be willing and able to share Jesus whenever the opportunity arises. The defense we give is rooted in our personal experience with Jesus. We should provide this response whenever someone asks because all people need Jesus, and any encounter might be the last chance they have to hear the Gospel. Therefore, we must be ready to share when opportunities occur.
We must prepare ourselves and actively seek evangelistic opportunities. It's important to share our experience with the Lord openly, so others have the chance to accept Christ as their Lord and Savior. Let us commit to being ready to give a defense whenever needed.
QUESTIONS
Can you think of an evangelistic opportunity that the Lord provided and you faithfully provided a defense? Can you think of an opportunity that the Lord provided and you failed to give a defense?
How would you consider your preparation for giving a defense if asked? How can you deepen your preparation for future opportunities?
