I've often wondered how many people in the church can really give a reason for the hope they have in Christ when asked, at least without relying on vague emotions. I put it that way because the context of the passage is about suffering for doing good. A very relevant passage, since we live in days where the selfless are criticized, and the selfish are uplifted. The worldly will not respond to vague answers that revolve around feelings that are very different from their own. Abstract feelings are very difficult to relay than we give them credit. It can be sort of like trying to describe the Grand Canyon to someone who has never seen it first hand. No matter how good we are with words, there is just no replacing experiencing it for yourself. If we fail to recognize that when expressing our feelings, we can end up judging them unfairly when they don't comprehend. Then, the gentleness and respect Peter mentions goes out the door. I dare say the only way to get through to them is to understand where they are coming from, including their brokenness. Who can really do that but those who experienced brokenness themselves and found wholeness through Christ? They are the ones that will be able to give a tangible reason for the hope they have. Only they will be spiritually mature enough not to take these unrighteous attacks personally, and fight fire with fire. Notice also that the verse specifically says that we should answer those who ask; instead of offering these proverbial pearls unsolicited. (Matthew 7:6)
My point being, when Peter says, be prepared, I don't think he's referring to logical arguments about doctrine alone. Rather, something much deeper and personal than that. Something that only those who have found genuine three-dimensional holiness can offer. In the end, they are the most effective evangelists and missionaries. Instead of just, teaching people to be fakes like the whitewashed tombs do. (Matthew 23:27-28)
As you can see, wholeness isn't just good for self, but it benefits the entire church. Yet, if we try to bypass this critical part of holiness, there is a very negative trickle-down effect that adversely affects the body of Christ's purpose and outreach efforts. Without that, a church cannot sustain itself very well.
I think most in ministry understand the latter part, that's why there is so much emphasis put on outreach these days. However, I'm skeptical that most understood how wholeness is an important part of the foundation of a mission-based community. Otherwise, I wouldn't see so many people relying on vague emotion, and cold doctrinal answers, in place of genuinely hopeful answers.
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