"Know Why You Believe": Introduction

Know Why You Believe
By K. Scott Oliphant

Introduction

What is this study about?

• In this study we are essentially doing “Apologetics.”
• Apologetics – “a defense”
• An example would be Paul’s defense before the Jews in Acts 22.
• We are defending what we believe and offering reasons why others should believe as well.

1 Peter 3:15-16

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.

“Always be prepared to give an answer”

• More literally “be ready always with an “apology.”
• Apology – not in our standard usage of saying “sorry,” but a defense, a reasoned answer for our Christian hope.
• Peter’s audience was a group of scattered and persecuted Christians, probably living during the time of the reign of Caesar Nero (A.D. 62-64)
• They needed to know in their hearts why they believed and were willing to die, but they also needed to be ready to explain that hope to others.

“In your hearts, revere Christ as Lord.”

• The emphasis in the statement is on the “Lord.”
• Peter wanted his readers to be firm in their conviction of the absolute lordship of Christ.

“Always be prepared to give an answer.”

• Ready always with “an apologetic” (a defense).
• Addressed to all Christians
• What do we need to be prepared?
  • The Bible is the primary tool used to defend our faith and give reasons to others for our hope in Christ.

“To anyone who asks for a reason”

• “Reason” is the Greek word logos (λόγος) or “word.” It is also where we get our English word “logic” from. In this context we are to be ready to give “a reasoned word” or “a logical, reasoned response” for our Christian hope.
• Our ultimate “reason” is the reality of the Triune God. Christianity’s “logic” begins with the reality of God.
• Without God and his Word, we really can’t understand anything in his universe.

"I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else." (C. S. Lewis)

• As we give our reasons, we draw them from Scripture.
• Scripture alone has the power of God to change hearts and minds.
• It ultimately does not depend on our speaking ability, intelligence, or logical persuasion. It depends on God’s Spirit through his Word.

“With gentleness and respect”

• Even to those who persecute and mock and slander, our reasoned apologetic from Scripture should be clear but gentle and respectful.

Order of the Study

• We begin with Scripture, because it is God’s Word and by it we know him and his will.
• We then will discuss why we believe in the Triune God of the Bible.
• All the topics are important, but the first two (God and the Bible) are foundational.

Two Final Thoughts

• One concession: There is no amount of evidence, or discussion, or argument that will, by itself, change anyone’s mind to a belief in Christianity. Christianity is only properly understood by knowing and trusting Jesus Christ. It is ultimately a work of grace.
• One challenge: While reading the book, there may be things you simply cannot believe. If so, ask yourself this question: “What am I trusting in that will not allow me to believe this?” We all trust in something—or in some things.
• Do I believe this? Why or why not?