Answering with Hope

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. —1 Peter 3:15–16 (NIV)

Have you noticed how suspicion seems to shadow even the simplest acts of kindness? In a world saturated with spin and self-interest, genuine goodness often raises eyebrows. People wonder, “What’s the catch?” They assume there must be a hidden agenda. And sometimes, that cynicism turns into slander or hostility.

In rare but tragic cases, suspicion escalates beyond words into violence, as we’ve seen in recent days. We grieve the loss of life and the rising tide of hostility in our public discourse. As followers of Christ, we are called to respond not with fear or retaliation, but with gentleness, respect, and unwavering hope.

This struggle isn’t new to the people of God. Peter’s words remind us that even–perhaps especially–in the early church, believers faced skepticism and suffering for doing what was right. He asks, “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?” (v.13). It’s rhetorical, of course—there will always be someone.

Yet Peter doesn’t flinch. He continues, “Even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened” (v.14).

This is the paradox of Christian witness: we respond to hostility with grace, to suspicion with sincerity, to evil with good. 

Why? Because that’s what Christ has done for us. He met our sin with mercy. He answered our rebellion with redemption. He transforms our fear into faith.

So, when someone asks, “Why do you keep showing kindness when it’s not returned?” we must be ready—not with defensiveness, but with testimony. It’s not about us. It’s Christ in us. Our hope is not manufactured; it’s received. And it’s meant to be shared.

Peter further urges us to speak with “gentleness and respect.” That’s not just a tone—it’s a posture. Our words must echo our lives. If we respond with harshness, we confirm their doubts. But when our speech and actions align, we become living proof of Christ’s transforming love. The One who changed us longs to change them too.

Gracious God, by your Spirit, prepare us to live and speak with holy clarity. When others question our hope, may our answer be gentle, honest, and rooted in your love. Let our lives reflect your mercy, and our words invite others into your grace. May we never seek our own glory, but only yours. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

In Christ’s Hope,

Pastor Tim