Ready to give a reason, gentle in the giving

1 Peter 3:15. In your hearts revere Christ as Lord, Peter writes. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.

The verse is often quoted as a call to know your arguments, and it is that. But look at what surrounds it. Verse 14 says do not fear their threats. Verse 16 says keep a clear conscience. The readiness Peter wants grows out of reverence, not out of debating skill, and it is meant to be delivered by someone who is not afraid and not rude.

Notice, too, what people are asking about. Not your opinions. Your hope. They have seen something in the way you carry suffering and they want to know why. The best preparation for that question is to actually have the hope, visibly, on a Monday morning. The answer then has something to point to.