1 Peter 3:15 says, “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.”

This is not primarily a call to be verse in apologetics, though apologetics can be useful. Peter’s words are focusing on the hope we have. And primarily what’s the hope?

Peter answers that question in verse 18: “For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit.”

That verse alone gives at least 5 specific reasons we have hope:

Why do we have hope? Because Christ suffered once for sins. He was sinless, so his sacrifice was perfect; it does not need to be repeated – it was once for all. Christ suffered for sin finally and fully for all those who trust in him.

Why do we have hope? Because Christ suffered, the righteous one for the unrighteous ones.

Why do we have hope? Because Christ suffered to bring us to God! The uniqueness of his death points to the ultimate purpose of his sacrifice – “to bring you to God.”  Oh, what great hope this provides. The one in whose presence is the fullness of joy; the one who satisfies the longing soul and fills the hungry soul with good things. This is the One Christ brings us to.

Why do we have hope? Because Christ suffered being put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the Spirit; he rose again on the 3rd day. We have a living hope, because we serve a living Savior.

Why do we have hope? Because Christ not only rose again, but ascended to the heavens and is seated at the right hand of God with all authority over all things (v. 22).

Meditate on these truths so you can speak with gospel hope. And when you do, speak “with gentleness and respect.”