The apologist’s charter is without a doubt 1 Peter 3:15,…

The apologist’s charter is without a doubt 1 Peter 3:15, often referenced, “always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you,” but let us not neglect the context.

1 Peter 3:14–17
[14] But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, [15] but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, [16] having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. [17] For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil. (ESV)

If you are doing apologetics without first honoring Christ the Lord as holy, you aren’t doing apologetics the Lord’s way. To honor him as holy, you must know him intimately and must be doctrinally accurate: knowing that the Lord Jesus participates in the holiness of the Godhead and is uncreated and eternal in his glory.

Furthermore, we are to give a reason for the hope that *we have*. We need not have an answer for every speculative question. We need a defense for our faith.

Likewise, we must do it with gentleness and respect, not mocking and berating our opponents. I often see people being sassy and filled with swagger in their slamming of their opponents, but if you serve the Lord you must do apologetics the Lord’s way. You may disagree vehemently and argue deftly but you must do it respectfully and gently.