Peter 3:8-17 – Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. 10 For
 
“Whoever desires to love life
    and see good days,
let him keep his tongue from evil
    and his lips from speaking deceit;
11 let him turn away from evil and do good;
    let him seek peace and pursue it.
12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
    and his ears are open to their prayer.
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, 15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. 17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.
I. PERSPECTIVE
but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy
Walt Henrichsen “Disciples Are Made Not Born”:  


1. Adopted as his objective in life the same objective that God sets forth in Scriptures
2. Is willing to pay any price to have the will of God fulfilled in His life
3. Has a love for the Word of God
4. Has a servant heart
5. Does not put his confidence in his own strength/skill
6. Does not have an independent spirit
7. Has a love for people
8. Does not allow himself to be trapped in bitterness
9. Has learned to discipline his life

 

II. PREPARATION
always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you
III. TACT
yet do it with gentleness and respect

Proverbs 15:1 – A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Proverbs 16:21 – The wise of heart is called discerning, and sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness.

Proverbs 25:11 – A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.

Proverbs 25:15 –  With patience a ruler may be persuaded,and a soft tongue will break a bone.