In what ways can we prepare to answer those who taunt our beliefs? Opening the Text Psalm 119:42 says, “Then I can answer him who taunts me, for I trust in Your word.” The psalmist ties a confident reply directly to unwavering trust in God’s revealed, literal Word. When ridicule comes, Scripture itself is both our foundation and our response. Seeing the Pattern in Scripture • Psalm 119:46 — “I will speak of Your testimonies before kings and will not be ashamed.” • 1 Peter 3:15 — “Always be prepared to give an answer … yet with gentleness and respect.” • 2 Timothy 2:15 — “Present yourself approved … rightly handling the word of truth.” • Colossians 4:6 — “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt.” These verses echo the same theme: confidence grows as the Word abides in us and shapes both our thinking and our tone. Preparing Before the Moment We answer well in public because we have listened well in private. • Daily intake of Scripture (Psalm 119:97). • Memorizing key passages that address core doctrines (Psalm 119:11). • Meditating on what God has already done (Psalm 77:11–12). • Studying sound doctrine so we can “refute those who oppose” (Titus 1:9). Letting Trust Drive Our Tone Because we trust the Word: • We refuse sarcasm and choose gentleness (Proverbs 15:1). • We offer hope, not merely rebuttal (1 Peter 3:15). • We keep the spotlight on Christ, not ourselves (2 Corinthians 4:5). Using the Armor God Provides • Sword of the Spirit — quote Scripture accurately (Ephesians 6:17). • Shield of Faith — believe God’s promises when accusations sting (Ephesians 6:16). • Belt of Truth — walk consistently so our life backs our words (Ephesians 6:14). Practicing a Ready Answer 1. Read a portion of Scripture aloud each day; hearing truth strengthens conviction. 2. Write brief summaries of key doctrines (creation, resurrection, salvation by grace) with supporting verses. 3. Role-play common objections with a trusted friend, responding with specific passages. 4. Keep conversations seasoned with grace—firm on truth, warm in delivery. 5. Rest in the Spirit’s help; He will “give you what to say” when the pressure comes (Matthew 10:19–20). Living the Lesson When taunts arise, we do not scramble for clever words. We simply draw from the living well of God’s flawless Word, speaking it with calm assurance and Christlike love. |
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