How should we respond when questioned about our faith, like in John 9:13? Seeing the Example in John 9:13 “They brought to the Pharisees the man who had been blind.” What Stands Out in the Passage • The man did not volunteer to stand trial; he was brought in. • Religious authorities, not casual onlookers, did the questioning. • The healed man had nothing to hide and nothing elaborate to prove—only a life-changing encounter with Jesus to report. Core Principles for Responding When Our Faith Is Challenged • Speak the simple truth of what Jesus has done. • Keep the focus on Christ, not on personal ability to argue. • Maintain honesty even when pressure intensifies. • Use Scripture and clear reasoning as the foundation. • Accept that obedience may bring social cost, yet trust God with the outcome. Scriptures That Reinforce the Model • 1 Peter 3:15 — “But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope you possess. But respond with gentleness and respect.” • Acts 4:19-20 — “Peter and John replied, ‘Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to listen to you rather than God. For we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.’” • Colossians 4:6 — “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” • 2 Timothy 4:2 — “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” • Psalm 119:46 — “I will speak of Your testimonies before kings and shall not be ashamed.” Practical Steps to Put This Into Action • Ground yourself daily in God’s Word so that truth naturally shapes your responses. • Recall your personal testimony in concise, Christ-centered terms. • Practice answering common objections with Scripture and calm reasoning. • Cultivate a respectful tone—bold yet gentle. • Pray beforehand for wisdom and courage, trusting the Holy Spirit to guide each conversation. Encouraging Reality Just as the formerly blind man’s healed sight was irrefutable evidence of Jesus’ power, a transformed life today powerfully testifies to Christ. When questioned, we simply present that living evidence, anchored in Scripture, confident that truth itself is persuasive. |
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