We take the Bible seriously because we take the Gospels seriously.

We need a short and focused answer to the question of why we’ve chosen to follow Jesus. To do that we need to focus on the essentials of our faith and how we share that with others?

Sometimes we have been asked a question about our faith or why we would follow this guy named Jesus and maybe our focus is off. We know why we follow him for the most part, but the way we articulate our faith… comes out a little less than clear.

We often argue when we want to prove we’re right and the other person is wrong. None of us like to be told we’re wrong, especially when the other person is trying to prove they are right. Nobody wins.

Hebrews helps us FOCUS on the main thing and not get lost in some of the details that may not really matter.

1 Peter chapter 3:13-14; “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.”

I don’t know about you, but I don’t know of anyone who likes to suffer. In fact, most of us do not suffer well.

Suffering is the state of undergoing pain, distress, or hardship.

Peter goes on to share, “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared (have clear focus) to give an answer (a defense or reply) to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the HOPE that you have.” (revere – feel a deep respect or admiration for – something)

Peter is NOT saying be ready to defend your Christian world view, your religion, the Bible, or your church. Peter says stay focused, keep the main thing the main thing, and be laser focused to defend your decision to follow Christ and share the hope that you have in Jesus.

Peter relates two specifics to HOPE in earlier chapters of 1 Peter

Why does Peter tell us we have HOPE? Because Jesus died, came back to life, and said he’ll return.

1 Peter 1:3 “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living HOPE through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead”

1 Peter 1:13 “Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your HOPE on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.”

1 Peter 1:21 “Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and HOPE are in God.”

Prepare a defense, but don’t be defensive.