1 Peter 3:15
“but 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, yet with gentleness and reverence;”
Peter tells us that when we share Christ we are to do it with gentleness and reverence. Gentleness seems to indicate our focus on people, while reverence is keeping God in mind.
We need to be gentle with people in talking of God for several reasons. People are nervous to talk of God. Almost like scared rabbits. They are easily frightened and chased off. Adam and Eve had to be pursued. They were hiding and they double hid, due to the clothes which were now necessary.
Adam and Eve felt the shame from their guilt. They assumed they were in trouble. Their guilt caused their god sensor to be damaged and inaccurate. Their assumptions about God were wrong.
God was gentle with Adam and Eve. God had questions for them. However, He was more heartbroken, than angry. He made them more suitable clothes. He spoke of their problem, but helped them with their discomfort. We need to be gentle in telling others about Christ. It’s best done as Peter described; “sharing the hope with in”. People would rather hear our story, than to answer questions. Sometimes both are necessary.
This is tough, because I sense their discomfort, which makes me more uncomfortable. Sometimes I proceed in spite of the discomfort. It rarely seems to go well. This may be seed sown or just an awkward time. This is an area where I need to grow.
The second topic is about reverence. We are to fear The Lord. Our attitude towards God needs to be respectful.
Lord, help us in the area of speaking about You. Open the doors for us. Help us to be courageous to speak and to be gentle and reverent.