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,

I Peter 3:15

Defending the Faith with Biblical Authority In a world filled with competing ideologies, the authority of Scripture equips you to defend your faith. 1 Peter 3:15 urges, “Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you.” Understanding and articulating your beliefs based on the authority of God’s Word is essential in your witness as a Christian.

Peter tells us to be prepared to give an answer for the hope that we have. The most powerful way to share your faith is to simply share what God has done in your life. It’s not having perfect, polished words and theology that works. Being too polished can actually turn people off. Giving an answer shouldn’t feel like pressure to perform or produce a specific outcome. Remember, you are not the one who can change someone’s heart. Only Jesus can do that, so take that pressure off of yourself. 

Most of us can think of powerful experiences we’ve had when there is no question God was at work – because nothing you did could have produced that result. Some of your blessings may have come as a result of the most difficult times in your life. Sharing those stories to encourage and bless others is one of the ways in which God redeems those difficult experiences. And don’t discount the less sensational, daily experiences you have with the Lord – the answered prayers and simple coincidences, or God-incidences – that you just know were a love tap from Him. 

Keep a journal of both small and big ways in which God has worked in your life. Those personal, vulnerable stories of life change are more likely to resonate with the people God places in your path than any eloquent presentation of theology. It puts the gospel into a context that’s relatable and brings it to life – your life and theirs. 

By recalling all of the ways God has worked in your life you will be able to share a story that is relevant to the person in front of you. The investment you make in prayer, building a relationship to understand that person, and your commitment to being a light for Christ will help you be effective in sharing your faith. Then you can let Jesus do the rest.