1 Peter 3:15 ~ One simple verse that encompasses the essence of this ministry
How often do we read something without comprehending the full meaning? 1st Peter 3:15 may be the ultimate example that brevity is the soul of wit because this verse encompasses the very essence of what God expects from each of us. Let's look more closely at 1st Peter 3:15 from the RSV bible:
1st Peter 3:15 then is a command from God through St. Peter to worship Jesus Christ as Lord, learn our faith and how to explain and defend our faith, and then to share what we have learned with others.
Based then on our love and devotion to Christ, the focus of this ministry then is:
- but in your hearts reverence Christ as Lord: Christ is God and as so must be revered.
- Always be prepared: This we should consider as a commandment, not a suggestion.
- to make a defense to anyone who calls you to account for the hope that is in you: After preparing ourselves properly, we must be able to explain & defend the church by enlightening those who don’t understand her teachings.
- yet do it with gentleness and reverence: St. Peter cautions us not to be confrontational or judgmental, but to educate others with the gentleness and respect a brother or sister in Christ deserves.
1st Peter 3:15 then is a command from God through St. Peter to worship Jesus Christ as Lord, learn our faith and how to explain and defend our faith, and then to share what we have learned with others.
Based then on our love and devotion to Christ, the focus of this ministry then is:
- Faith Formation: ensure that we understand our faith
- Apologetics: ensure that we know how to defend our faith
- Evangelization: ensure that we know how to share our faith