What strategies can we use when others dismiss our faith as "parables"? Setting the Stage with 2 Peter 1:16 “For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty.” Why This Verse Matters Peter tackles the exact accusation we hear today: “Your faith is just stories.” He answers by pointing to concrete, historical reality—eyewitness experience. From this launch point, Scripture lays out practical strategies for us. Strategy 1: Point to Eyewitness Foundation • The gospel rests on verifiable events, not folklore. • Luke 1:1-4—“many have undertaken to compile an account… just as they were handed down to us by the initial eyewitnesses.” • 1 Corinthians 15:3-8—Paul lists over 500 witnesses to the risen Christ. • When challenged, highlight this chain of testimony: the apostles saw, recorded, and passed it on. Strategy 2: Share Your Own Testimony • John 9:25—“One thing I do know: I was blind, and now I see!” • People may debate abstractions, but they can’t refute what Christ has done in you. • Keep it brief, specific, and Christ-centered. Strategy 3: Show the Consistency of Scripture • 2 Timothy 3:16—“All Scripture is God-breathed.” • Point to fulfilled prophecy (e.g., Isaiah 53 → Matthew 27). • Emphasize the unified message across 66 books, 40+ authors, 1,500 years. Strategy 4: Engage with Gentle Confidence • 1 Peter 3:15—“Always be prepared to give a defense… yet with gentleness and respect.” • Listen first, answer calmly, avoid sarcasm. • Confidence comes from truth, not volume. Strategy 5: Appeal to Historical Evidence • Archaeology confirms places, people, and events (e.g., Pool of Bethesda, Pontius Pilate inscription). • Encourage the skeptic to examine primary sources—Josephus, Tacitus, early church fathers. Strategy 6: Live the Truth Transparently • Matthew 5:16—“Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” • Authentic love and integrity undercut the “myth” accusation more powerfully than arguments alone. Strategy 7: Rely on the Holy Spirit • John 16:13—“When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth.” • Pray for discernment and words (Luke 12:11-12). • Remember, conviction ultimately comes from Him, not our eloquence. Putting It All Together 1. Start with Scripture’s eyewitness claims (2 Peter 1:16). 2. Add your personal story. 3. Highlight the Bible’s cohesion and fulfilled prophecy. 4. Engage with respect. 5. Offer historical corroboration. 6. Live out the gospel visibly. 7. Depend on the Spirit throughout. These strategies turn the charge of “just parables” into an invitation to explore solid truth—truth rooted in history, confirmed in experience, and empowered by God Himself. |
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