A Test of Faith or a Growth Opportunity? – EGP Blog post from October 1, 2012

If you’ve been a Christian for any length of time, you’ve undoubtedly come across unbelievers that have all the questions to test your faith. While it’s easy to write them off as “un-ready soil”, remember that it’s our responsibility to throw the seed in hopes that they “may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.”

1 Peter 3:14–15 ()

[14] But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are§ blessed. And do not fear their §intimidation, and do not be troubled, [15] but sanctifyⓘ Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense§ to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;§

1 Peter 3:14a Or would be
1 Peter 3:14b Lit fear
1 Peter 3:15a I.e. set apart
1 Peter 3:15b Or argument; or explanation
1 Peter 3:15c Or fear

But then comes the question of what to say. Not all are Bible scholars and Satan has millenia of practice setting traps for the God’s people.

Matthew 10:19–20 ()

[19] “But when they hand you over, do not worry about how or what you are to say; for it will be given you in that hour what you are to say. [20] “For it is not you who speak, but it is the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.

So, put on God’s armor, pray (both before and during) that the words you say are God’s and not your own, and use it as an opportunity to grow in your faith.

Key verses

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