One casual afternoon, while scrolling through Pinterest, a captivating viral clip caught my attention. It featured a college student, identifying as agnostic, engaging in a heartfelt conversation with a campus preacher. The student earnestly sought an explanation for believing in God, showing a genuine desire to understand rather than provoke a debate. As I pondered this scenario, a thought emerged: If I were in the preacher’s shoes, could I effectively defend my faith and influence this individual? Would I possess the ability to articulate a compelling reason for my beliefs in that moment? This introspection prompts a crucial question for all of us: Are we truly prepared to defend our faith in a manner that resonates with others, or are we merely relying on surface-level knowledge and memorized verses (1 Corinthians 3:1-3)?
Proverbs 15:23 – To give a good answer is a joy to a man, and how pleasing is a word given at the right time!
Defending our faith transcends mere intellectual arguments; it requires a deep connection with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 6:19). By yielding to His guidance, we become vessels for God’s truth, capable of speaking words that not only convict but also transform hearts (Luke 24:32). Jesus entrusted us with a command to spread His word, acknowledging that some will reject while others will accept (Matthew 10:11-14). A good word to a yearning and attentive heart will transform, while the same word to a rebellious and hardened heart will judge. It is not our place to choose who gets to be saved by our word or not. Throughout Jesus’ ministry, and in the ministries of biblical figures like Stephen and Paul, we see the power and consequences of Spirit-led words.
Stephen delivered a powerful sermon to the Sanhedrin, recounting Israel’s history and highlighting their persistent disobedience. His words were undeniably true and convicting, but they also cut to the heart, leading his listeners to react with violence, ultimately resulting in his martyrdom (Acts 7). His speech condemned those who resisted the truth, illustrating how the Word of God can act as a double-edged sword, judging those who oppose it.
On the other hand, Peter preached with similar convicting words as Stephen, yet his message led to the salvation of about 3,000 people (Acts 2:14-42). Peter’s audience, unlike those who stoned Stephen, were not indignant but ignorant; they listened with open hearts, which led to their salvation. This reemphasizes Jesus’ parable of the sower(Matthew 13:1-9), in that we have no control over the heart of a person—whether they will receive or reject the word. Our responsibility is to speak it because of the necessity laid upon us(1 Corinthians 9:16). However, it is God who gives the growth(1 Corinthians 3:6-9). We must not fret or think the word we spoke has failed when an unbeliever rejects it, for it is their judgment. The word is true and is borne of God; it convicts to either judge or save. The stark differences in the outcomes of Stephen’s and Peter’s ministries highlight the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and empowering believers. Stephen’s words brought judgment to those who resisted the Spirit, while Peter’s words brought salvation to those whose hearts were open to the truth. Both men relied entirely on the Spirit’s wisdom and guidance, which is why their messages had such a profound impact, whether to condemn or to save.
Their examples teach us that our effectiveness in witnessing and preaching is not rooted in our own knowledge or eloquence but in our submission to the Holy Spirit. When we align our words with His divine influence, we can trust that they will accomplish God’s purposes, whether to transform, or judge.
This call to defend our faith extends beyond evangelists and pastors; it is a challenge that every believer must embrace, irrespective of their role or position (John 21:17). Are we actively nurturing our faith, delving deeper into God’s Word, and seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance in our lives (Acts 22:14)? Neglecting this preparation not only leaves others spiritually hungry but also risks hardening hearts to the truth (Ezekiel 34:1-10). However, by surrendering to the Holy Spirit, our words can become a potent force for conviction and salvation (Jeremiah 1:9-10).
Let this moment serve as a catalyst to deepen your faith, seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance, and equip yourself for the opportunities that await. Will you rise to the challenge, becoming a bold and Spirit-led witness for Christ in a world yearning for His presence? Here are practical steps to guide you on this transformative journey:
– Engage in introspection, identifying areas in your faith that require growth and development (2 Corinthians 13:5).
– Immerse yourself in resources such as Bible studies and devotional materials to enhance your understanding of God’s Word (2 Timothy 2:15).
– Dedicate time to prayer, seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance and preparing yourself for the divine opportunities that lie ahead (Ephesians 5:16).
Let us commit to becoming courageous ambassadors for Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit to speak words that not only convict but also inspire transformation. The world awaits our testimony, and the time for action is now. Are you prepared to defend your faith and impact the lives of those around you? Let us embark on this collective journey, guided by the Holy Spirit and anchored in the eternal truth of God’s Word.