Always Ready (6th Sunday of Easter)

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Click here for this Sunday’s Acts reflection (The Laying on of Hands)

In this continuation of St. Peter’s epistle, he instructs believers to expect persecution for their faith. Such persecution should not surprise them, since Jesus taught that the world would hate those who follow Him (John 15:18-25). Rather than complaining, the proper response to such persecution is to continue to show kindness even to persecutors, since this would cause the to feel shame for their behaviour, or perhaps even convert them.

Peter also exhorts readers to always be prepared to answer anyone who might question them about their faith, since one never knows when they’ll be called to account (v. 15). The word “defence” (Gk. Apologia) denotes a legal defence in a court of law, and is the origin of the term “apologetics.” Thus, this verse becomes the foundation for the practice of Christian apologetics. Christians must expect that outsiders will have questions about their faith, and thus must know not just what they believe, but why.

Such answers, however, should not be given in a spirit of arrogance or hostility, but as Peter writes, “with gentleness and reverence.” Outsiders will not be convinced even by a good answer if the one delivering the message does not show sincere care for them. Likewise, St. Paul states: “Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person” (Colossians 4:5-6).

Although we face a world hostile to the Christian faith, through our gentleness, willingness to suffer for our faith, and readiness to answer all queries, many will be convinced to accept the Gospel and be saved.