1 Peter 3:15-17 KJV: A Call to Holiness and Witness
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing. (1 Peter 3:15-17 KJV)
In this passage, the apostle Peter is emphasizing the importance of living a life of holiness and being prepared to share the gospel with others. As followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to set apart God in our hearts and to be ready to give an answer to anyone who asks about the hope that lies within us.
The Importance of Sanctification
The phrase "sanctify the Lord God in your hearts" (v. 15) is a call to set apart God in our lives. This means recognizing His supreme authority and submitting to His will. As believers, we are called to live a life that is pleasing to God, and this requires a heart that is surrendered to Him.
Being Ready to Give an Answer
Peter also encourages believers to "be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you" (v. 15). This means that we should be prepared to share the gospel with others, whether it be through words or through our actions. As believers, we have a responsibility to share the message of salvation with those around us.
A Good Conscience
In verse 16, Peter writes that we should have a good conscience, so that those who speak evil of us may be ashamed. This is a call to live a life of integrity and moral excellence. When we live a life that is pleasing to God, we can expect that others may criticize or persecute us. However, if we have a clear conscience, we can stand confidently before God and before others.
Suffering for Doing Good
Finally, Peter writes that it is better to suffer for doing good than for doing evil (v. 17). This is a call to perseverance and faithfulness, even in the face of persecution or hardship. As believers, we are called to follow Jesus, even if it means suffering or facing difficulties.
Conclusion
In 1 Peter 3:15-17, we are reminded of the importance of living a life of holiness, being prepared to share the gospel, and persevering in the face of hardship. May we be encouraged to set apart God in our hearts, to share the message of salvation with others, and to live a life that is pleasing to God.
