TEXT: 1 Peter 3:13-17

PROPOSITION: Christians must be ready to defend their faith

QUESTION: When?

KEY WORD: Preparations

SCRIPTURE READING: Same

INTRODUCTION:

1. In Madagascar  is a red “Tomato” frog.

2. When attacked it emits a deadly poison.

3. Attacker spits him out – too late – already injured and dies.

4. Christians are often too late in putting up our defenses.

5. Satan runs a mile while the church puts on its shoes!

Defend what?

1. The gospel – Philippians 1:17 “set for defense”

2. The challenge – would defame, revile – verse 16

3. Our hope – verse 15 “be ready to answer reason for hope”

4. Ourselves – Acts 26:2

5. Our baptism – 1 Peter 3:21 “the answer (defense) of a good conscience”

6. Against Satan – Ephesians 6:11, 16 “put on whole armor of God”

Defend how?

1. Ready – always ready – text

2. Prepared – Romans 1:15 “I am ready to preach in Rome”

3. Study – 2 Timothy 2:15 “to show yourself approved”

4. Prayer – Ephesians 6:18 “pray always being watchful”

Defend when?

1. Always alert, on guard, watch – Matthew 24:42 “Watch, no know day or hour”

2. Before temptation comes – Matthew 26:41 “not enter into temptation”

3. Before darkness comes – 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6 “not sleep, watch and be sober”

4. Before you are trapped – Luke 21:36 “counted worthy to escape”

Conclusion:

1. The best defense is a good offense.

2. Christians must be on the attack against evil.

3. We must be pro-active not reactive.

4. Sword of Spirit and Prayer are our offensive weapons.