How does 1 Peter 3:15 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? \A Clear Charge in 1 Peter 3:15\ “But sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect,” • The verse begins with an inward act—setting Christ apart as Lord. • Outwardly, it calls for constant readiness to explain our hope. • The manner matters: gentleness and respect keep the witness credible. \The Great Commission Echo in Matthew 28:19-20\ “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” • “Go” points to intentional engagement. • “Make disciples” mirrors “give a defense” by focusing on teaching and persuasion. • Jesus’ abiding presence empowers both the speaking and the living out of the message. \Shared Themes: What Links These Passages\ • Christ-centered authority – 1 Peter: “sanctify Christ as Lord.” – Matthew: “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” • Verbal proclamation – “Give a defense” (Greek apologia). – “Teach them to obey.” • Readiness and intentionality – “Always be prepared.” – “Go … make disciples.” • Audience-orientation – “Everyone who asks you.” – “All nations.” • God-given assurance – Confidence rooted in “the hope that is in you.” – “I am with you always.” \Other Verses that Build the Bridge\ • Romans 10:14 – “How then can they call on the One in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach?” • Colossians 4:5-6 – “Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of every opportunity. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you will know how to answer everyone.” • Acts 1:8 – “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses … to the ends of the earth.” These texts reinforce that explanation (1 Peter 3:15) and evangelization (Matthew 28) are two streams of the same Spirit-driven river. \Everyday Application\ • Cultivate devotion: daily sanctify Christ as Lord; private worship fuels public witness. • Stay informed: know Scripture well enough to express “the reason for the hope.” • Engage respectfully: tone should invite, not repel. • Actively “go”: look for opportunities—workplace, school, neighborhood—to disciple others. • Trust the promise: Christ’s presence secures courage for every conversation. |
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