Lutheran Vocational Evangelism

(Where Do You Get Your Answer?)

So, Peter tells us to “always be(ing) prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:5). How is it that we prepare ourselves? Where do we get the reason, the answer, the defense for the hope that is in us?

We get the answer from God. Jesus tells us, “And when they bring you to trial and deliver you over, do not be anxious beforehand what you are to say, but say whatever is given you in that hour, for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit” (Mark 13:11). Indeed, it is the Holy Spirit that will give you the words to say so that it is the Lord who is speaking and not you. But again, where does the Holy Spirit get the words He speaks through you?

There is no such thing as a coincidence; it is just God’s unseen hand in our lives. Have you ever noticed that the question you were asked had its answer in the devotion you read that morning? Coincidence? No, the hand of God gives you the answer He will speak through you at the right time.

Thus, we see the importance of being in the Word, reading the Bible on our own, having personal and family devotions, being in Bible Class and Divine Service. It is as we make regular (each and every day) and diligent (careful, conscientious, and purposeful) use of the Word of God that He fills us with the very Word He will use to speak through us to give an answer for the hope we have in Jesus.

Remember, Jesus gives us His authority to speak. He gives us His promise that He will be with us when we speak, giving us the courage to speak. And now we hear Him giving us His promise that He will also speak through us giving us the words, His Word to speak to give an answer, a defense for our faith and hope in Himself.

Just as an athlete or musician, or anyone who needs to hone their skills for their work and play, we Christians we need to hone our faith and knowledge so that we are ready to give an answer. And we rejoice that our skills are honed best by the One who is able to bring all things to fruition, the One who promises to speak through us.

7 of 52    © Rev. Dr. Ronald A. Bogs (2018)