This passage urges Christians to sanctify the Lord God in their hearts and to always be ready to give an answer to anyone who asks about the hope that is in them. Christians are called to do this with humility and fear, having a good conscience and maintaining a good way of life in Christ.
The first part of the passage, "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts," emphasizes the importance of honoring and revering God in our hearts. We are called to acknowledge God's holiness and set Him apart in our hearts as the One we worship and serve.
The second part of the passage, "and always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you a reason concerning the hope that is in you," emphasizes the importance of being prepared to share our faith with others. As Christians, we are called to be ready to share our hope and faith in Christ with others who may inquire about it.
The passage then goes on to say, "with humility and fear." This phrase emphasizes the importance of approaching others with a humble and respectful attitude when sharing our faith. We should not be arrogant or condescending, but rather approach others with a sense of humility and respect for their beliefs.
The next sentence, "having a good conscience," reminds us of the importance of living a life that is consistent with our faith. Our actions should reflect the love, compassion, and values of Christ, and we should strive to live our lives with a clear conscience, free from guilt or wrongdoing.
Finally, the passage says, "that, while you are spoken against as evildoers, they may be disappointed who curse your good way of life in Christ." This suggests that even when others may speak against us or criticize us for our faith, our good way of life in Christ will ultimately prevail. Our actions should be so consistently good and positive that those who speak against us will be disappointed and ashamed of their accusations.
Cross References:
Colossians 4:6: "Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one." This verse aligns with the idea of sharing our faith with humility and grace.
Matthew 10:22: "You will be hated by all men for my name’s sake, but he who endures to the end will be saved." This verse echoes the reality of believers facing opposition but encourages endurance.
Overall, this passage encourages Christians to sanctify God in their hearts, to be prepared to share their faith with others, to approach others with humility and respect, to live a life consistent with their faith, and to trust that their good way of life in Christ will ultimately prevail.
See also: vs 17-18
1 Peter 3:15-16. Sanctify the Lord God in your hearts; and always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you a reason concerning the hope that is in you, with humility and fear: having a good conscience; that, while you are spoken against as evildoers, they may be disappointed who curse your good way of life in Christ.