Why do we as Christians need to give
a reason for our beliefs?
Writing
research papers are never fun; some decided to pull an “all-nighter” to get the
job done as close to the due date as possible.
The reason why research papers must require large amounts of time dedication
is because the conclusion the author is reaching requires proof; truth. In order for Christians to make the faith
their own, they must search for proof, not just to defend their faith against
others, but for them to become steadfast in their own beliefs. “Do not treat prophecies with contempt, but
test everything; hold fast what is good." 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21
Christians are instructed by
the Lord to give a reason for their beliefs; explain to others why they believe
what we believe, with love and compassion.
“But in your hearts set apart
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.” 1 Peter 3:15 Many
Christians force their beliefs on others, and, when defending their faith, are
rude and lack the compassionate character which is mandatory when sharing the
faith; the character of a Christian sharing their faith can possibly “scare”
others away from the faith. God puts the
words “gentleness and respect” in this verse for a reason. Jesus was gentle and respected others, and
that is how he won so many hearts over; his attitude was part of his mission.
Reasons for beliefs do not
just help one share the faith, but also keep it. After a couple weeks in Mr. Duffy’s
apologetics class, I can see my faith, already, becoming stronger. The sad truth is many American-made teenage
Christians lose their faith upon entering a liberal college; they do not know
how to answer these seemingly hard question about their faith, when, in
reality, these “hard” questions are nothing more than a simple answer. One of the main reasons I decided to attend
these classes is because I do not want to be apart of the large percentage of
those who “lose their faith.”
I never really had a reason
for my beliefs; to be honest, my reason was because it was the only thing I
knew, growing up in a Christian household, and knowing nothing but Christian
values. But, learning these reasons why
we believe certain things is helping me become closer to God, and grabbing more
of my attention, consequently making me more interested. We need to give reasons to prove to
ourselves, and to others, Christianity is truth.
Interested in Christianity? Visit my mission trip blog to see what my senior class has been doing and is doing to be ready for our mission trip SOON!
