Persecution can be accompanied by sarcastic probing questions. Our most natural tendency may be to lash out, or clam up. We feel the heat rising in our face and may even experience fear.
Peter says we must be ready to give an answer at all times, why we hold such hope in our hearts. But we are to do this gently and with respect toward the other person. This is not always an easy task, especially when the other person is not gentle nor shows us respect.
Peter points to a source of strength to do this task when he says, “but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy” (1 Peter 3:14-15). Reminding ourselves that we do not represent our pride, but our Master.
