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I love apologetics. I love discussing God's word with believers and non-believers. I think that the (legitimate) ministries that exist to provide a logical, reasoned, and in some cases scientific defense of the faith are fantastic. It's important to always be prepared to make a defense. But what has been lacking in my own life at times, and what I think is missing in many people who call themselves "apologists" who seem to do nothing but argue about the word, is the whole point of this verse. It isn't about "anyone who asks". It's about "anyone who asks for a reason FOR THE HOPE THAT IS IN YOU."

Too many of us are the watchmen on the wall with arrows and spears ready to fire and hurl at those who would attack the fortress of our faith, the word of God. Granted Paul calls the word of God the sword of the Spirit, and that Hebrews calls it a double-edged sword. A sword is both an offensive and defensive weapon. Yes, we are in a war, a battle. But that battle isn't against flesh and blood.

The need to give a defense is not the need to clobber our "opponent". The need to give a defense (with gentleness and respect I might add) is because someone else sees hope in us, not because we are an enemy. Too often we make our defense without gentleness, without respect, and without any hope in us. Too often we are almost eager for a fight, ready to show just how wrong someone is, then the reality is that they need Jesus.

Be ready to give an answer, to make a defense. Just make sure it is because your hope is shining brightly as a city set on a hill, a lamp on its lamp stand, a light shining before men that they may glorify your Father in Heaven.