Defending the Hope That Is In You

Early in my Christian experience, before I knew thedefinition of apologetics, I sensed the need for an adequate apologetic forevery accusation against, and question to, the Christian faith. There were somany people who did not know God, and there were so many questions that seemedto stand between them and God. If their questions could be answered clearly,rationally, intelligently, and kindly, these students would then standconvinced and would become believers.

I set myself the task of getting the right answers. Before Ibecame accomplished in this pursuit, I began to have doubts. The doubts aroseas I began to practice my growing knowledge in face-to-face encounters(arguments) or large bull sessions. It was great fun arguing. It was more funwinning the argument. But there weren’t any results. Part of the problem wasthat I found it difficult to be kind while I was being methodically rationaland clear in my presentation.

There was another problem. It seemed that most of the peoplewho had questions didn’t really want answers to their questions. Theyjust wanted to have questions. This contradicted an assumption I had made thatpeople who had questions wanted answers.

"But in your hearts reverence Christ as Lord. Always beprepared to make a defense to anyone who calls you to account for the hopethat is in you, yet do it with gentleness and reverence; and keep yourconscience clear, so that, when you are abused, those who revile your goodbehavior in Christ may be put to shame” (1 Peter 3:15-16).

This is the kind of question we should generate, answer, andanswer with gentleness and respect.

 

Written May 1986.

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How To Be Free From Bitterness and other essays on Christian relationships