Introductory Thoughts
If a believer lives a life to the glory of God, there will come a time when the world wants to know “a reason of the hope” that lies within him. Simon Peter addressed this within the context of times of persecution. When believers were known to “suffer for righteousness’ sake” (1 Peter 3:14), the world would want to question their hope. Simon Peter reminded them of the importance of knowing how to answer their persecutors. Likewise, believers should know how to answer those curious about the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. How shameful is it for believers who do not even know how to explain the need for and plan of salvation?
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): 1 Timothy 1:1 says the Lord Jesus Christ is our hope. Paul and Silas were beaten and put into prison. Instead of complaining about their circumstances, they chose to pray and sing. The jailor witnessed their unexpected hope and wanted it for himself too. When the jailor asked how to be saved, Paul and Silas were ready with the answer for a man who had already repented. It was to Believe (Acts 16:30-31).
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(For everyone): Do those around you know that you are saved by the grace of God? When is the last time someone saw something in your life that led them to ask you of the hope that is in you?
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If someone were to ask you how to be saved, what would you tell him? To what scriptures would you lead him to explain what Christ has done and what that individual needs to do to be saved?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to teach you how to be a better witness for Him.
- Ask the Lord to help you be diligent knowing the scriptures.
Song
Rescue the Perishing
