As followers of Christ, we are called to make disciples (Matthew 28:19), and this requires that we open our mouths and share the Gospel with others. However, discipleship is most effective when it involves conversations - not lectures - and a conversation requires that at least two people be present and participating, taking turns speaking and listening.
I'm reading a book by Neil Tomba, The Listening Road (https://a.co/d/952Xkh7), in which Pastor Tomba and his team cycle across America seeking conversations on faith with ordinary citizens along the way. Relaying one of these encounters, the author references the following passage:
"... sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, but with gentleness and respect" (1 Peter 3:15, NASB; emphasis mine).
I spend a great deal of time working on the defense of my faith, but it occurred to me after re-reading this passage that we are prompted here not to initiate the defense but to do so in response to a request. In other words, don't force your defense (reasons, justification, etc.) on others; engage them in conversation, listen to their stories and their positions on life and faith, and be prepared to share your reasons for following Jesus if and when they ask you for them.
While we need to speak about our faith and tell others the good news of Jesus Christ, it's just as important that we listen to what others think, honestly and sincerely engage them in conversation, and wait until they invite us to share what on our hearts and minds.
Shalom,
Brian
I'm reading a book by Neil Tomba, The Listening Road (https://a.co/d/952Xkh7), in which Pastor Tomba and his team cycle across America seeking conversations on faith with ordinary citizens along the way. Relaying one of these encounters, the author references the following passage:
"... sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, but with gentleness and respect" (1 Peter 3:15, NASB; emphasis mine).
I spend a great deal of time working on the defense of my faith, but it occurred to me after re-reading this passage that we are prompted here not to initiate the defense but to do so in response to a request. In other words, don't force your defense (reasons, justification, etc.) on others; engage them in conversation, listen to their stories and their positions on life and faith, and be prepared to share your reasons for following Jesus if and when they ask you for them.
While we need to speak about our faith and tell others the good news of Jesus Christ, it's just as important that we listen to what others think, honestly and sincerely engage them in conversation, and wait until they invite us to share what on our hearts and minds.
Shalom,
Brian
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