Why Do You Believe?

By Jesse LeMay

Why do you believe in Christ? Has anyone ever asked you that question? Have you ever personally thought about it? Does it even matter if we know why, and can tell others the reason for our faith? Knowing why we believe is crucial. Christianity is not a blind faith. Furthermore, being able to share such evidence with others is something we are called to do as Christians. Preparation plays a major role in our daily “walk” as members of the body of Christ. In what way though does this preparation manifest itself?

            Peter, an apostle of the Lord, knew the value and importance of being prepared. He said, “but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, …” (1 Peter 3:15). The apostle knew that there would be skeptics and doubters that Christians would encounter. This is no different today than it was in the first century. It is our responsibility as Christians to “always” be “ready to make a defense to everyone who asks” about our beliefs. To tell others why we have that confident expectation of eternal life with God. So, how do we prepare ourselves? By making it a priority to know the Scriptures. If we aren’t prepared, we can’t give a “defense.” Spend more time truly studying (not just reading) God’s word. As we learn and grow, our confidence and readiness will grow also.

            Equally as important as Peter’s instruction to be ready to make a defense, is the last part of the same verse. He ends by saying, “yet with gentleness and reverence.” This is something that all Christians must remember when defending their faith. Our goal is not to prove wrong the one with doubt, but to help bring them to an understanding of the truth of God’s word. We must remember that their eternal soul is at stake, as was ours when we came to accept and obey the truth of the gospel. So, let us always be prepared to defend the Holy Scriptures in which we have placed our eternal hope. When others ask, “Why do you believe?” may we know with certainty the answer to be given.