We’re currently going through Peter’s first epistle. In my last post, I talked about how to be prepared to answer those who ask about the hope driving your actions.
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, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
1 Peter 3:15-16 NIV
Continuing with that thought, there’s an assumption that you’re watching your attitude. When we deal with the unsaved, we need to keep our emotions in check. We must not operate in an arrogant or condemning manner.
When we act in a “holier than thou” way, we actually push people away from the Gospel. They need to understand that we had issues as well. The only difference between them and us is Christ.
Most importantly, we must hold on to a good conscience. We need to guard our conscience from anything that would stain it. What does this mean?
The Greek word for conscience, literally means seeing together. It’s how we view the totality of our life and actions. It’s not about just one incident that happened 3 years ago.
Too many believers find themselves stuck because they’re continually replaying a mistake they made years ago. You are washed by the blood of Christ if you repented of it. Stop letting the past keep you from your destiny in the Lord.
The real question is; am I living for self, or becoming like Christ? That’s what’s the important aspect of our conscience.
Paul explained the same thing to his spiritual son, Timothy. We need this to become effective in ministry.
…holding on to faith and a good conscience. Some have rejected these and so have shipwrecked their faith.
1 Timothy 1:19 NIV
How can you trust God if your own mind is accusing you of disobedience? In that case, your faith is being shipwrecked. If you haven’t done it yet, go before God and repent over those areas of guilt. Then move on in Christ.
These four things that Peter dealt with in chapter 3, are the bedrock for being victorious in trials. Don’t fear what the world fears, set apart Christ as Lord, be ready to explain your hope, and hold on to a good conscience.
The result of these characteristics is worth the hardship. Peter explains why in verse 16. He says that even though those in the world may publicly slander you as criminals, privately they will actually be ashamed of themselves.
By living this way, you’re giving the Holy Spirit something to work with. He can bring conviction into the hearts of those who know you. The Lord is able to “ripen” their hearts to receive the Gospel message.
Eventually, the Lord will lead someone, maybe even you, to share Christ with them. At that time, they’ll be ready and willing to bow their knee to the Lord and accept Him as their Savior.
Question: How close does your life line up to this way of living?
© 2025 Nick Zaccardi
The Spirit and the Word 