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& GODʼS REASON & REVELATION DEFENSE A Monthly Journal of Christian Evidences RECIPE May 2021•Vol. 41•No. 5 NEW Lotʼs Tracts Daughters

Preparing to Give an Answer: years later, Paul “made his defense” (NIV) before Governor Festus (Acts 25:8), and then again before Festus and King Agrippa II (26:1-2), even God's Defense Recipe in denying Festus’ charge of insanity by pointing out that his apologia 1 Peter 3:15 was grounded in “truth and reason” (26:25). Though the word apologia is used only once in the New Testament in association with the apostle Peter, it is this apostle (Peter, and not Paul) Eric Lyons, M.Min. whom the Holy Spirit used to give us perhaps the most complete (yet concise) picture of God-approved defenders of Christianity. Peter Article In Brief... used the term apologia one time in 1 Peter, yet the apostle clearly details how Christians are to be Christ-like Every Christian should be interested in giving an answer for the defenders. Indeed, Peter gives the hope that is within. This Christian defense is for those who love Lord’s Church a perfect recipe for Christ, who long to see Him upon His return, and who desire to defending divine doctrine. talk about their living, fact-based hope whenever the opportunity To Christians who were scat- presents itself. Prepare yourself to give a Christ-like defense by tered throughout various parts of allowing the epistle of 1 Peter to provide valuable context and com- the northern half of Asia Minor in roughly the early-to-mid 60s A.D. mentary on the powerful, apologetics exhortation of 1 Peter 3:15. (1:1),3 Peter wrote: “But sanctify the THE English word “apologet- one’s own defense against charges Lord God in your hearts, and always ics” is often confused with presumed to be false.”1 More than be ready to give a defense to every- the word “apologize,” yet the anyone else in the New Testament, one who asks you a reason for the two words are nearly exact opposites. “apologetics” is associated with the hope that is in you, with meekness There certainly is a time and a place apostle Paul. To those in Corinth and fear” (3:15). for Christians to express regret and who questioned Paul’s claim of apos- tleship, he gave a “defense” (1 Corin- WRITTEN TO CHRISTIANS, apologize for our many mistakes and thians 9:3). In his joyful letter to the W NOT “CLERGY” sins, but Christian apologetics has church in Philippi, Paul reminded HILE Jesus and the nothing to do with such remorse. A them that he was “appointed for the apostle Paul are the two pitcher in baseball might apologize defense of the Gospel” (Philippians premier apologists in for hitting a batter with a 90-mile- 1:16-17; 1:7). Scripture, we must not make the per-hour fastball (since that’s not an tragic mistake of thinking that authorized part of the game), but a A few years before Paul became a apologetics is only for “the preacher.” dodgeball player has no need to say follower of Christ, Jesus prophesied Too many Christians for far too he’s sorry for striking another player that His disciples would “answer” or long have incorrectly assumed that with a ball. On the contrary, he may “defend” the truth of Jesus Christ “ordained clergy” are those engaged logically defend himself, offering a “before kings and rulers” (Luke 180-degree-different kind of “apol- 21:14,12). This prophecy came into in Christian apologetics—not the “regular Christian” husband and ogy.” clear fulfillment during Paul’s mis- wife, mom and dad, or the baker, The English word “apologetics” is sionary journeys and imprisonments banker, and bus driver. Peter makes derived from the Greek noun apo- (cf. Acts 9:15), as the Lord used him clear in his first epistle that he was logia meaning a “reply” or “defense,” to reason with and “reply” before all writing, not to “apostles, prophets, and the Greek verb apologeomai manner of rulers.2 Before Governor and preachers,” but to Christians meaning to “defend oneself ” and, Felix, Paul gave an “answer” (NKJV) (1 Peter 4:16)—to “pilgrims” (1:1), more specifically, “to speak in or “defense” (NASB). About two the “elect” (1:2), the “begotten” R&

(1:3), “children” of God (1:14). He persed Christians in Asia Minor husbands “without a word may be was writing to any and all of God’s to whom Peter wrote to “always be won by the conduct of their wives, people in various provinces in Asia ready to give a defense” were just when they observe your chaste con- Minor—followers of Christ whom that—“Christians.” Indeed, Chris- duct” (3:1-2).13 he describes as “a chosen generation, tian apologetics is for all of God’s a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His people! Consider that before the apos- own special people” (2:9). In this tle Paul ever wrote to Timothy, letter, Peter specifically addressed FOR SINCERE SAINTS, NOT instructing him to “preach the various members of the body of word” and “do the work of an Christ, including servants (2:18-25), FCOUNTERFEIT CHRISTIANS evangelist” (2 Timothy 4:2,5), he wives (3:1-6), husbands (3:7), elders URTHERMORE, according first highlighted the vital “genu- (5:1), and “younger people” (5:5). to Peter, Christian apologet- ine [unhypocritical]14 faith that is in But overall, he was addressing “you” ics is for those with a “good you” (2 Timothy 1:5). Furthermore, (1 Peter 5:1)4—Christians in local conscience” who exemplify genuine, years prior to Paul penning 2 Timo- churches. “good conduct in Christ” (1 Peter thy, he desired this young servant 3:16). Like Peter,11 Christians are of Christ to accompany him on his After expressly challenging “hus- imperfect people who stumble and second missionary journey. Note bands” (1 Peter 3:7) to honor their fall along the way. Yet, we are to be carefully, however, that Paul only wives and be the kind of godly men real people of God, who “walk in the wanted this after coming to learn in the home that the Lord calls them light” and “confess our sins” to one that Timothy “was well spoken of by to be,5 Peter went back to addressing another (1 John 1:7,9; James 5:16). the brethren” (Acts 16:2-3). Indeed, “all of you” (3:8). When he wrote Having been “redeemed…with the God’s recipe for Christian apologet- “always be ready to give a defense” precious blood of Christ” (1 Peter ics includes, first and foremost, this (3:15), Peter was not addressing 1:18-19) and “called…out of dark- primary ingredient: a sincere saint. evangelists. He was not challeng- ness,” conscientious, God-approved ing some “special class of clergy.” He Christian defenders walk in “His It should come as no surprise that was talking to “all” Christians, to marvelous light” (2:9), “laying just before Peter commanded Chris- “followers of what is good” (3:13), aside all…hypocrisy” (2:1). “[A]s tians to “be ready to give a defense,” to those who have been baptized in obedient children, not conforming he first said to “sanctify the Lord water for the remission of sins (3:20- yourselves to the former lusts…but God in your hearts” (3:15). To “sanc- 21; cf. Acts 2:38). as He who called you is holy, you tify” (hagiazo) is “to treat as holy;” also be holy in all your conduct” to regard in “reverence.”15 The word Certainly, there are essential lead- (1:14-15). “sanctify” is derived from the Greek ership roles for elders, deacons, and hagios, which pertains to “being evangelists to fulfill in the Lord’s Much of the time, long before dedicated or consecrated to the Church.6 Peter, in fact, has some any non-Christian listens to an apo- service of God.”16 Similar to Jesus’ very important commands for elders logia from a disciple of Christ, he prayer to the Father, “hallowed in chapter 5. However, the “defense” will have inspected (to some degree) (hagiazo) be Your name” (Matthew instruction of 1 Peter 3:15 is for all the life of this “so-called Christian.” 6:9), Peter said, “sanctify Christ as disciples of Christ. Thus, Peter says to “abstain from Lord in your hearts” (NASB). Peter fleshly lusts which war against the was actually quoting from Isaiah When “a great persecution broke soul, having your conduct honor- 8:13: “The Lord of hosts, Him you out against the church at Jerusalem” able among the Gentiles, that when shall hallow” (Hebrew qadash). several years earlier, “all except the they speak against you as evildoers, How do we “hallow,” “sanctify,” or apostles were scattered throughout they may, by your good works “set apart as holy” the Lord? Since Judea and Samaria” (Acts 8:1).7 which they observe, glorify God God is by His very nature 100% What did these dispersed disciples in the day of visitation” (2:12).12 In “holy” (1:16) and needs absolutely of Christ do? They “went every- fact, it could be that for some (and no help from humanity in being where preaching (euangelizo) the perhaps many) unbelievers much holy, in what sense do we set Him word” (Acts 8:4). They evangelized! less “defense” would be necessary apart as holy? “There is no evidence, nor is there any in their conversion if they first saw probability, that all these persons continual, sincere righteous living Peter said to sanctify the Lord were ‘ordained’ to preach.”8 They on the part of the Christian. Only “in your hearts.” Of the millions were “just members” of the Church a few verses prior to 1 Peter 3:15, the of thoughts that flood our minds, of Christ: “ordinary,”9 “common apostle noted how some unbelieving of all the memories, people, and Christians.”10 Likewise, the dis- things we hold dear in our hearts, R&

One is specially set apart far and divine deliverance from prison— Peter’s apologetics exhortation above all others—in the center of Acts 12:5-19). is firmly and deeply embedded in our being, on the throne of our an epistle and immediate context hearts—the King of kings and Lord The Lord used this often-per- of suffering. In the verses directly of lords, Jesus Christ. God wants secuted apostle to pen a letter to before and after 1 Peter 3:15, the Christians to give a defense only distressed Christians (likely some- apostle speaks of imminent Chris- after they have hallowed Christ in time between A.D. 64-68)17 during tian persecution: “when they defame their lives. Not an outward, hollow the reign of the Roman Emperor you as evildoers, those who revile “holiness,” which manifests itself Nero. Though there may not have your good conduct in Christ may in “going through the motions” been widespread, official imperial be ashamed” (3:16). “And even if with Pharisee-like actions, but an persecutions of Christians until you should suffer for righteousness’ inward, genuine, heart-felt reverence a few decades later, Nero was no sake, you are blessed” (3:14; cf. Mat- for Jesus Christ, which naturally friend to Christians. The histo- thew 5:10-12). We are blessed if we impacts everything the Christian rian Tacitus (who was also no fan endure suffering innocently19 like does—how we think, act, and talk— of Christianity) noted how Nero, Christ20 (2:19-24). We are blessed including how we “give a defense.” in A.D. 64, blamed Christians for if such suffering brings spiritual Sooner or later, hypocrisy only the Great Fire in Rome. Accord- maturity and heavenly clarity in harms the Christian’s influence and ing to Tacitus: “Nero fabricated an otherwise potentially “cares-of- defense, while an authentic surren- scapegoats—and punished with this-world” kind of earthly, sinful dering to Jesus as Lord of our lives every refinement the notoriously focus on life. Furthermore, we are is the greatest aid in the apologist’s depraved Christians (as they were blessed to grow spiritually from arsenal. “Sanctify” first; “Defend” popularly called).”18 Whether Peter such suffering, including increas- second: always, always in that order. had this or other Roman persecu- ing in courage for Christ. In fact, tions in mind when writing 1 Peter, Peter directly connected “suffering” COURAGEOUS, GOD- we do not know. Regardless, as the (3:14a) and apologetics (3:15) with book of Acts reveals, persecution being courageous, as he quoted P FEARING FOLLOWERS was present in one place or another from Isaiah 8:12, saying, “And do ETER also detailed that gen- since the birth of the Lord’s Church, not be afraid of their threats, nor uine faithfulness from the and the Christian “pilgrims of the be troubled” (3:14b). inside-out is fundamental to Dispersion” in Asia Minor were not Christian apologetics because fol- exempt. It seems they had already Rather than cower fearfully in lowers of Christ often are called endured some difficulties (1:6-7), the face of manmade persecution upon to give a defense in trying and Peter forewarned that more lay and allow such fear to warp how times. Peter knew a thing or two on the horizon. we think, live, and “give a defense,” about suffering. Very soon after the Isaiah challenged his hearers to fear establishment of the Church in Acts Beloved, do not think it strange God. “The Lord of hosts, Him you 2, Peter and John were repeatedly concerning the fiery trial which shall hallow; let Him be your fear, arrested, imprisoned, interrogated, is to try you, as though some and let Him be your dread” (Isaiah threatened, and beaten (Acts 4-5). strange thing happened to you; 8:13). Peter includes these thoughts Peter was in Jerusalem during a time but rejoice to the extent that you both at the beginning and end of when “a great persecution arose partake of Christ’s sufferings, 1 Peter 3:15: (a) “sanctify the Lord against the church…at Jerusalem,” that when His glory is revealed, God in your hearts” (which we’ve as Saul “made havoc of the church, you may also be glad with exceed- already examined), and (b) giving a entering every house, and dragging ing joy. If you are reproached for defense “with…fear.” This “fear” is off men and women, committing the name of Christ, blessed are not in sinful fear of what man (or them to prison” (Acts 8:1,3). Later, you…. But let none of you suffer Satan) might do. Jesus explained: when “Herod the king stretched out as a murderer, a thief, an evil- “[D]o not fear them…. Whatever I his hand to harass some from the doer, or as a busybody in other tell you in the dark, speak in the church,” including killing the apos- people’s matters. Yet if anyone light; and what you hear in the ear, tle James, the king then arrested and suffers as a Christian, let him not preach on the housetops. And do imprisoned Peter (Acts 12:1-4), very be ashamed, but let him glorify not fear those who kill the body but likely with the intention of killing God in this matter…. Therefore cannot kill the soul. But rather fear him, too (were it not for Peter’s let those who suffer according Him who is able to destroy both to the will of God commit their soul and body in hell” (Matthew souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator (4:12-19). R&

10:26-28). Indeed, as Peter rhetori- not some dreaded Bible study or here” (1:17). The simple yet pro- cally asked, “And who is he who debate. The apologia of 1 Peter found fact about life on Earth is, we will harm you if you become fol- 3:15 is the natural response to the are all “just passing through” (like lowers of what is good?... Do not be Lord being #1 in our lives (which at a brief stay in a hotel). Christians, afraid of their threats, nor be trou- some point will likely include great however, live here with hope (the bled” (3:13-14). After all, as Peter books, classes, studies, and possible full expectation) of receiving (by reminded these young churches of debates). Christian apologetics, on the grace of God) “an inheritance the words of Psalm 34, our omni- the most basic level, is the natural incorruptible and undefiled and scient, omnipotent God is bigger response of being in love with the that does not fade away, reserved than any problem that may come Lord and living as sojourners in a in heaven for you” (1:4). As the our way: “For the eyes of the Lord foreign land with our eyes on the sojourner Abraham left his home- are on the righteous, and His ears prize. Does a young woman who is land to dwell “in a foreign country” are open to their prayers; but the righteously head-over-heels in love and “waited for the city which has face of the Lord is against those who with her fiancé not have a natural foundations, whose builder and do evil” (3:12). Thus, “fear” God (1 glow and excitement about her? Is maker is God” (Hebrews 11:9-10), Peter 1:17; 2:17; 3:15). As we “speak she not ready to defend and tell the “our citizenship is in heaven, from in the light” (Matthew 10:27) about world about her one love who is which we also eagerly wait for the the joy of our salvation, our total soon to sweep her off her feet and Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Phi- respect, reverence, and genuine, take her across the threshold of their lippians 3:20). Many a dying, non- soul-stirring awe for our Savior and new home? Likewise, the child of Christian has longed for some kind King serves as the rock-solid founda- God loves to talk about her Father. of “hope” of happiness after this life tion of our apologia. The once-dead sinner loves to talk is over; the faithful child of God is about his Savior. The bride of Christ overjoyed to “give a defense…for the Is it not encouraging that God loves to talk about her Husband and hope” that is in us. used the imperfect (but penitent) the reasons for her confident expec- Peter to write these words? Recall tation of seeing Him face to face in TA HOPE ANCHORED FIRMLY IN FACTS that Peter cowered on the Sea of heaven one day. HOUGH the genuine hope Galilee, fearfully denied Jesus three of the Christian stirs up times, and even had a hypocritical Peter called the Christians in the strongest of emotions,22 moment later in life when he, for fear Asia Minor “pilgrims” (1:1; 2:11) and do not make the grave mistake of of some Jewish Christians, played “sojourners” (2:11). He reminded thinking that the Christian’s hope favoritism and shunned his Gentile them how to conduct themselves is founded on emotion. Nothing brethren (Galatians 2:11-14). It is “throughout the time of your stay this apostle (likely toward the end of his life) whom the Holy Spirit used Reason & Revelation is published monthly by Apologetics Press, Inc. Periodicals postage to exhort struggling, flawed follow- paid at Montgomery, AL. Postmaster: Send address changes to Reason & Revelation, ers of Christ to courageously stand their ground, to “not be afraid,” and 230 Landmark Dr., Montgomery, AL 36117; issn:[1542-0922] usps# 023415. to “always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason Apologetics Press is a non-profit, tax-exempt work dedicated to the defense of New for the hope that is in you.” Indeed, regardless of “whenever, wherever, Testament Christianity. Copyright © 2021. All rights reserved. and by whomever it is challenged,”21 we must speak up and explain the Editor: Orders: “reason for the hope” that is in us. Dave Miller, M.A., M.Div., M.A.R., Ph.D.* Phone: (800) 234-8558 FULL OF HOPE, WITH Fax: (800) 234-2882 (*Communication, Southern Illinois University) I EYES ON THE PRIZE On-line Web store/catalog, subscription N one very real sense, biblical, Associate Editor: order/renewal form, current issues, archives, Christian apologetics is not an and other information (all orders processed intimidating graduate course or Jeff Miller, M.S., Ph.D.* on a secure server): an overwhelming 800-page step-by- step book on how to answer nearly (*Biomechanical Engineering, Auburn University) URL: w w w. A p o l o g e t i c s P r e s s .o r g every challenge under the Sun. It’s URL: espanol.ApologeticsPress.org/espanol Annual Subscription Rates: E-mail: [email protected] $14.00 Domestic Discovery—Scripture & Science for $12.00 Domestic Bulk Kids is a sister publication for children. For more information, please contact our offices (5+ TO SAME ADDRESS) or visit the Discovery Web site at: URL: www.DiscoveryMagazine.com $14.00 Canada & Overseas (PLUS SHIPPING) General inquiries, changes of address, or international callers: Phone: (334) 272-8558 Fax: (334) 270-2002 (cont. on p. 56) R&

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SBGtriuebadtlfeyor * $1.00 ea. *$1.00 ea. * $1.00 ea. 22 New AP Tracts *$1.00 tracts contain Creation & Science Tracts: more pages - Does the Fossil Record Support Creation and of information the Flood? Digging Deeper Tracts: - God and the Laws of Science: The Law of Causality - The Laws of Science-by God - Abortion - Population Statistics and a Young Earth - Apologetics and the Growth of the Early Church - Was the Flood Global? - Creation and the Age of the Earth - Defending the Bible’s Position on Prayer Dismantling Evolution Tracts: - Ephesians 2:8-9 - The Four Most Important Questions You Will - Can Quantum Mechanics Produce a Universe from Nothing? Ever Ask - Guardian Angels - Did the Laws of Science Apply at the Beginning? - Male and Female Roles: Gender in the Bible - “The Laws of Thermodynamics Don’t Apply to - The Moral Argument for God - The Trinity the Universe!” - What Does “Believe” Mean in John 3:16? - Life from Non-Life: Inevitable, Given Enough Time? - “You Creationists Are Not Qualified to Discuss Regular Tracts: Evolution!” - The Unique Church

could be further from the truth. preaching. They reacted to a sermon Jesus was challenged by Satan, the Our feelings are founded on facts. filled with sensible argumentation Lord quoted Scripture and used it Our hope is firmly anchored in and properly applied Scriptures.24 accurately (Matthew 4:1-11). When the truths of the Gospel—of the They responded to the apologia of Jesus was challenged by the Pharisees death, burial, and resurrection of Christ—to Christian apologetics. and others, He logically pointed out Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). flaws in their irrational arguments, Peter was clear, saying, “[W]e did About 30 years following the while also making perfect reference not follow cunningly devised fables events in Acts 2, Peter reminded the to and application of the Old Testa- when we made known to you the persecuted Christian pilgrims in 1 ment (cf. Matthew 5; 12:1-14,22-30). power and coming of our Lord Jesus Peter that the hope for which they Indeed, “the weapons of our warfare Christ, but were eyewitness of His were to give a defense is a “living are not carnal but mighty in God majesty” (2 Peter 1:16). When Peter hope through the resurrection of for pulling down strongholds, cast- and the apostles were accused of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1:3). ing down arguments and every high being drunk on the first Pentecost Indeed, the evidence proves that thing that exalts itself against the following the death, burial, and res- “God…raised Him from the dead knowledge of God, bringing every urrection of Jesus (Acts 2:13), Peter and gave Him glory, so that your thought into captivity to the obedi- responded with a reasoned defense, faith and hope are in God” (1:21). ence of Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:4- not a mere emotional appeal. He 5). As we patiently prepare ourselves reminded his hearers that God S PREPARE TO ANSWER to answer those who ask us a reason “attested” (apodedeigmenon) to the INCE our hope is evidence- for the hope that is in us, let’s “grow miracles that Jesus worked while He based, it is paramount to learn in the grace and knowledge of our was alive and in their midst (Acts the reasons for our hope—for Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 2:22). That is, God “demonstrated”23 our own eternal benefit and for Peter 3:18). proof of the divine origin, message, the benefit of others (as we teach and mission of Christ in such a way and answer questions). Unlike the IDEFEND WITH THE RIGHT ATTITUDE that people could actually see the miraculously inspired apostles to N our reasoning with others of evidence and make an informed, whom Jesus said, “Therefore settle the hope that is in us, we must rational decision about Him (cf. it in your hearts not to meditate keep in mind what Peter noted John 10:37-38). beforehand on what you will answer at the end of 1 Peter 3:15—that (apologeomai); for I will give you a our defense is to be made “with What’s more, the assembly on mouth and wisdom which all your meekness and fear.” Christians are Pentecost knew that Jesus had been adversaries will not be able to con- to try to be Christ-like at all times, “put to death” only days earlier (Acts tradict or resist” (Luke 21:14-15), including when we defend the truth. 2:23), but unlike the tomb of King Christians today must prepare Our teaching is to be characterized David, Jesus’ tomb was empty only themselves to give a defense. We “with gentleness and reverence” (3:15, three days later. Unlike the body of must “get ready.” NASB). We are to “honor all people” David, which saw corruption, the as we “fear God” (2:17). As we “pro- dead body of Christ had been raised Peter said, “If anyone speaks, let claim the praises of Him” who called and would never see corruption. Yes, him speak as the oracles of God” us “out of darkness into His marvel- Peter directed the assembly to evalu- (4:11). If so, then we must first ous light,” we must be “clothed with ate the evidence for Jesus’ resurrec- learn the Word of God. We first humility” (2:9; 5:5). tion, including the implied empty learn enough to reasonably conclude tomb (Acts 2:24,29-32), the fulfill- why we should become Christians— About 15 years ago, a man who ment of Psalm 16:8-11 (Acts 2:25- “having been born again…through identified himself as a Catholic 31), and the witnesses who stood the word of God” (1:23). Then, priest wrote an unsolicited letter before them testifying that they “like newborn babes, desire the to Apologetics Press. We had never had actually seen the risen Savior pure milk of the word, that you heard of this gentleman before (Acts 2:32). may grow thereby” (2:2). After all, reading his note. Although, sadly, “All Scripture is given by inspiration he is very misled in his adherence The nearly 3,000 individuals of God, and is profitable for doc- to Catholic doctrine,25 consider who obeyed the Gospel on Pente- trine, for reproof, for correction, for some of his analysis of a handful of cost were not swayed by flowery instruction in righteousness, that preachers in the Church of Christ. words, phony miracles, or mere the man of God may be complete, [NOTE: He refers to preachers as emotional appeals. They were “cut thoroughly equipped for every good “elders.”] to the heart” by evidence-based work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). When R&

As a Roman Catholic priest Peter repeatedly reminds Chris- ENDNOTES who follows non-Catholic reli- tians to be humble in all areas of life. gions with some interest…I We are to be submissive to governing 1 Frederick Danker, et al. (2000), Greek have observed a lot of mean- authorities (2:13), to masters (2:18), English Lexicon of the New Testament ness, rudeness, and lack of basic (wives) to husbands (3:1), to elders (Chicago, IL: University of Chicago), civility among CoC [Church of (5:5), and in general “to one another” pp. 116-117. Christ—EL] elders, especially (5:5).27 With this same submissive recently. How does one explain spirit, Christians are called upon 2 Including teaching Sergius Paulus, the this? In general (no doubt there to give a defense “with gentleness proconsul of Cyprus (Acts 13:4-12), are exceptions perhaps many), and reverence” (3:15, NASB). Yes, on his first missionary journey and Christian love seems deficient let’s teach and preach while being standing before Gallio, proconsul of in the way they seek to promote “clothed with humility, for ‘God Achaia (Acts 18:11-17), on his second truth. resists the proud, but gives grace missionary journey. In general, they strike me as tend- to the humble.’ Therefore humble ing to be suspicious, rash and yourselves under the mighty hand 3 All chapter and verse citations that do uncharitable in their judgments of God, that He may exalt you in not have a Bible book listed are from about other people’s motives, due time” (3:5-6). 1 Peter. prone to arrogance, and even too eager to call someone a liar, F CONCLUSION 4 The phrase “among you” in this verse more so than the average pagan IRST Peter 3:15 is embedded is another clear indication that he was in the streets. These comments within a marvelous epistle that writing to “regular Christians.” are based on only my limited provides clear context and experience, to be sure, and some- commentary on a perfect apologet- 5 Not cruel masters who lord over their times, no doubt, I am guilty of ics passage. Every sincere-hearted wives, but Christ-like men who (are some of the very same sins and Christian should draw encourage- commanded to) “dwell with them character flaws. ment from this verse to follow God with understanding, giving honor to I was considering doing some courageously in the face of suffering the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and kind of oral interaction with and persecution. With a Christ-like as being heirs together of the grace of an elder or two about Catholic attitude, with our eyes firmly fixed life, that your prayers may not be hin- matters. Now it looks to me like on the ultimate prize, and with dered” (3:7). this would be a royal invitation our hope anchored in the facts of the to verbal abuse, misrepresenta- Gospel, we, indeed, can give a rea- 6 Acts 14:23; 1 Timothy 3:1-13; Philip- tion, and even character assas- sonable defense. And, we can rejoice pians 1:1; Ephesians 4:11-12. sination…. in the fact that honest and good- Some members of the Lord’s hearted unbelievers will eventually 7 NIV. Church might tend to dismiss this “glorify God in the day of visitation” 8 Albert Barnes (1997), Notes on the Old criticism with a wave of the hand, (1 Peter 2:12). but we believe this gentleman and New Testaments: Acts (Electronic was right in his assessment and Database: Biblesoft). denouncement of some who attempt 9 R.C.H. Lenski (2001), The Interpre- to “defend the truth” yet do so in an tation of the Acts of the Apostles, (US: unchristlike manner.26 What’s more, Hendrickson), p. 314. we all need to be reminded of the 10 Barnes. necessity and seriousness of “speak- 11 Matthew 27:69-75; Galatians 2:11-14. ing the truth in love” (Ephesians 12 It seems likely that this “day of visi- 4:15). We must examine ourselves tation” is a reference to the day that and ensure that our teachings and a non-Christian becomes a child of defense of the truth are done lov- God—when the Lord would, in a sense, ingly and patiently, confidently yet kindly, neither rudely nor arrogantly Kyle Butt (1 Corinthians 13). May 1-2 Rosenberg, TN (281) 341-7776 Keep in mind what the apostle May 16 Glen, MS (662) 287-3328 Paul wrote to Timothy shortly May 22-23 Conyers, GA (770) 922-8341 before commanding him to “preach Eric Lyons (334) 567-6561 the word” (2 Timothy 4:2). He May 23 Wetumpka, AL (901) 751-2444 described “a servant of the Lord” as May 27 Memphis, TN (561) 848-1111 one who “must not quarrel but be Dave Miller (334) 264-2985 gentle to all, able to teach, patient, April 30-May 2 West Palm Beach, FL (615) 895-2265 in humility correcting those who May 9 Montgomery, AL (303) 986-5800 are in opposition” (2 Timothy 2:24- Jeff Miller (334) 264-2985 25). May 1 Readyville, TN (561) 848-1111 May 4,6,11,13 Denver, CO (417) 334-3866 May 16 Montgomery, AL May 21-23 West Palm Beach, FL May 30-June 5 Branson, MO R&

“visit me with Your salvation” (Psalm Lot's Daughters Dave Miller, Ph.D. 10-6:4). 13 Considering how many Christians, [Editor’s Note: The following article is astonishing and objectionable to us— including countless church leaders, taken from a soon-to-be-released book completely inexcusable and unjustifi- have struggled with sexual purity, Hidden Meanings Buried in the Bible.] able—as it may seem for a father to Peter’s repeated reminders to be sacrifice his own daughters in such “chaste,” “pure,” and “holy in all your A horrifying incident is recorded a fashion, it verifies the fact that the conduct” cannot be overemphasized. during the lifetime of Abraham unnatural lust of homosexuality was Disciples of Christ who fail to put away involving his nephew Lot and the considered far more repugnant than lewdness, lusts, revelries, etc. (4:3), and angelic visitors who came to Lot to even illicit heterosexuality. who hypocritically “give a defense,” do warn him to flee the city: (and have done!) much damage to the Nevertheless, scholars have docu- cause of Christ. Sadly, this damage Now before they lay down, the mented the fact that Lot’s rationale can be exponentially greater in our men of the city, the men of Sodom, was rooted in a cultural norm that day of instant Internet search engines, both old and young, all the people informed his decision. The biblical 24-hour news coverage, and social from every quarter, surrounded the notion of hospitality is given a promi- media. house. And they called to Lot and nent position in Christian thinking 14 From the Greek anupokritos, which is said to him, “Where are the men and behavior. It is imperative that from hupokrites (from which we get who came to you tonight? Bring God’s people “practice hospitality” our English word “hypocrite”). them out to us that we may know (Romans 12:13; cf. Romans 16:23; 1 15 Danker, p. 10. them carnally.” So Lot went out to Timothy 5:10; 1 Peter 4:9; 3 John 8). 16 Ibid., pp. 10-11. them through the doorway, shut the One cannot even be considered for 17 Cf. Peter Davids (1990), The First door behind him, and said, “Please, the high church office of elder with- Epistle of Peter (Grand Rapids, MI: my brethren, do not do so wick- out possessing this critical quality (1 Eerdmans), p. 10. edly! See now, I have two daugh- Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8). Americans 18 Tacitus (1952 reprint), The Annals ters who have not known a man; have practiced a number of cultural and the Histories, trans. Michael Grant please, let me bring them out to amenities that manifest hospitality, (Chicago: William Benton), 15.44, you, and you may do to them as including taking a guest’s coat, offer- parenthetical comment in orig. you wish; only do nothing to these ing something to drink, indicating 19 Though on an imperfect, fallen level men, since this is the reason they the location of the restroom, and (Romans 3:23). have come under the shadow of my offering for the guest to be seated. 20 Who did so on a flawless level. roof ” (Genesis 19:4-9). But Lot was being more than just 21 Dick Sztanyo, as quoted in Kyle Butt hospitable. He was acting in harmony (2001), “What Is Apologetics?” https:// The western mind—indeed, the with a deeply honored obligation of www.apologeticspress.org/apcontent. Christian mind—has difficulty antiquity—what Clarke referred to as aspx?category=12&article=826. processing this incident, specifically, “that sacred light in which the rights 22 From excitement for what’s to come the callous, despicable behavior of of hospitality were regarded among after this life is over, to the joy of talk- Lot regarding his daughters. the eastern nations.”3 “A guest was ing about it, to sadness for those who sacred and his person inviolable.”4 do not currently have it. One must remember that pre- These rights required him to protect 23 R.J. Knowling (2002), The Expositor’s Christian civilizations did not the lives of those whom he had “taken Greek New Testament, ed. W. Robert- possess the refined moral sensibili- in” for hospitable purposes at all son Nicoll (Peabody, MA: Hendrick- ties that a nation like America has costs. He was to protect his guests— son), 2:82. enjoyed. Generally, the pagan societ- even with his own life.5 24 See Dave Miller (2019), Is Christianity ies of human history have engaged in Logical? (Montgomery, AL: Apologet- all sorts of wicked, depraved, dehu- In his Manners and Customs of ics Press), pp. 49-50. manizing, and savage behaviors that Bible Lands, Fred Wight explains: 25 Moises Pinedo (2008), What the were considered by those cultures to “In the lands of the East, when a Bible Says About the Catholic Church be perfectly appropriate. Consider, host accepts a man to be his guest (Montgomery, AL: Apologetics Press), for example, those societies that have he thereby agrees at whatever the https://apologeticspress.org/pdfs/e- practiced cannibalism—including a cost to defend his guest from all books_pdf/wtbsatcc.pdf. number of American Indian tribal possible enemies during the time 26 We actually know the handful of groups1—literally devouring other of his entertainment.”6 Based upon preachers to whom he was referring, as human beings and forcing others to other parts of his letter revealed their do the same. Likewise, many cultures identity. It is also noteworthy that the have had disgusting family relation- Catholic priest humbly acknowledged ships and relaxed sexual mores that his own shortcomings in his critique. are jarring to the Christian mind.2 As 27 An apologist is no more to be arrogant than an elder is to be domineering (1 Peter 5:3). R&

his travels to Egypt and Palestine to we know of under that name in the Northern North America,” Anthropological visit biblical sites, H. Clay Trumbull, conventional West.15 Papers of the University of Alaska, 10[1]:59-72, Lyman Beecher Lecturer at Yale https://www.uaf.edu/ apua/files/Rubel1961. Divinity School, wrote in his Stud- Of course, this “exaggerated pdf. ies in Oriental Social Life about an emphasis on hospitality”16 to the 3 Adam Clarke (no date), Clarke’s Commentary: occurrence of this very custom. An neglect of his obligations of father- Genesis-Deuteronomy (New York: Abingdon- American missionary visited in the hood does not make Lot’s actions Cokesbury), 1:123, emp. added. Also “the home of a Turkish governor who appropriate—let alone sanctioned sacred rite of hospitality…the sanctity of handed the American a piece of roast by God.17 Even if we postulate that hospitality”—C.F. Keil and F. Delitzsch (1976 mutton and stated: “By that act I have he didn’t expect the mob to accept reprint), Commentary on the Old Testament: pledged you every drop of my blood, his offer—due to their depraved The Pentateuch (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerd- that while you are in my territory no sexual proclivities—even making mans), 1:233. See also Mary Rogers (1865), evil shall come to you. For that space the offer is unacceptable and to be Domestic Life in Palestine (Cincinnati, OH: of time we are brothers.”7 In the Ori- viewed as unconscionable. We might Poe & Hitchcock), p. 237, who was told when ental mind, hospitality is “the virtue add, however, that if the choice came visiting a home in Palestine, “This house is of virtues,” “the trait of traits,” and down to preserving the lives of his your house, and we are at your service.” involves “a profound sense of obliga- guests versus preserving the lives of 4 Wilfrid J. Moulton (1920), “The Social Insti- tion to a principle.”8 his daughters, and if the lives of the tutions of Israel,” in A Commentary on the guests took precedence over the lives Bible, ed. Arthur Peake (London: T.C. & E.C. Lot hinted at this profound com- of himself and his own family (Leviti- Jack), p. 110. mitment when he reminded the mob: cus 19:18; Mark 12:31), we can at 5 Thomas Whitelaw (1950), The Pulpit Com- “only do nothing to these men, since least understand that all human life, mentary: Genesis, ed. H.D.M. Spence and this is the reason they have come whether the lives of those closest to us Joseph Exell (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans), under the shadow of my roof ” or the lives of those who are complete 1:253, emp. added; E. Harold Browne (1873), (Genesis 19:8). The word “shadow” strangers, is equally valuable—even Genesis, or The First Book of Moses (New York: refers to the sacred duty of protec- if we question which should be pre- Scribner, Armstrong & Co.), p. 127. tion that Lot was under obligation to served over the other. Since God does 6 Fred Wight (1953), Manners and Customs of provide.9 English translations render not sanction situation ethics,18 Lot’s Bible Lands (Chicago, IL: Moody Press), p. the phrase: “They have come to my predicament should not be viewed as 78, emp. added. house, and I must protect them,”10 “I an “either/or” situation. He should 7 H. Clay Trumbull (1895), Studies in Oriental am responsible for them,”11 “They have sought to preserve all lives Social Life (London: Hodder & Stoughton), p. have come under the protection of committed to his charge, refusing to 110, emp. added. my roof.”12 Hence, from the perspec- compromise with the depraved mob. 8 Ibid., pp. 80-81,99. The term “oriental” is used tive of the Oriental mindset, Lot was In any case, awareness of the peculiar by scholars to refer to the peoples that live in “a courageous champion of the obliga- notions of the Asiatic mindset at the a large area consisting of Eastern Turkey to tions of hospitality in a situation of time regarding hospitality helps us at Central India, and from Northern Persia to extreme embarrassment.”13 least to make sense of Lot’s bizarre offer, Southern Arabia (Trumbull, p. 74). though we reject it as completely unac- 9 Koehler, et al., pp. 1024-1025. But the Eastern commitment ceptable to God. 10 ERV, EXB, ICB, NCV. to the principle of hospitality went 11 GW, NOG. even further. The Eastern tribal ENDNOTES 12 CSB, CEB, EHV, HCSB, NET, NIV, TLV. groups known as the Khonds possess 13 John Skinner (1925), A Critical and Exegetical the same passion for hospitality, as 1 Thomas H. Maugh (2000), “Conclusive Commentary on Genesis (New York: Charles reflected in this Khond proverb: “For Evidence of American Indian Cannibalism Scribner’s Sons), revised edition, p. 307. the safety of a guest, life and honor Found,” Los Angeles Times, September 7, 14 Trumbull, p. 98, emp. added; J.T. Gracey are pledged; he is to be considered https://archive.seattletimes.com/ archive/? (1882), “Khonds” in Cyclopaedia of Biblical, before a child.”14 This perspective, date=20000907&slug=4041058. See Dave Theological, and Ecclesiastical Literature, ed. indeed, this narrow-minded fixation, Miller (2017), God & Government (Mont- John M‘Clintock and James Strong (Grand explains the absurd behavior of Lot in gomery, AL: Apologetics Press), pp. 318-319. Rapids, MI: Baker, 1969 reprint), 5:72-73. the treatment of his daughters. While the Khonds lived in India—quite some 2 See Miller (2017), pp. 317-318 for instances distance from Palestine—they still serve as an The virtue of hospitality has a pre- of depraved practices of the Indian tribes example of the Eastern mindset as it relates to eminence, in its obligations and in in 18th century America. The “Eskimos” of the obligations of hospitality. its significance, not recognized to Alaska practiced wife swapping as an expres- 15 Trumbull, p. 74, emp. added. the same extent elsewhere in the sion of etiquette—see Lawrence Hennigh 16 H.C. Leupold (1950 reprint), Exposition of world at large…. In the primitive (1970) “Functions and Limitations of Alaskan Genesis (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker), 1:559. East, hospitality is more far-reach- Eskimo Wife Trading,” Arctic, 23[1]:24-34, 17 See the discussion of why the Bible would ing in its scope and more exacting in from http://www.jstor.org/ stable/40507675; label Lot as “righteous” in Eric Lyons (2008), its obligations than anything which Arthur J. Rubel (1961), “Partnership and Wife- “Righteous Lot”?, Apologetics Press, https:// Exchange Among the Eskimo and Aleut of w w w.apologeticspress.org/APContent. aspx?category=23&article=2400. 18 Dave Miller (2004), “Situation Ethics— Extended Version,” Apologetics Press, https:// www.apologeticspress.org/APContent.aspx?c ategory=7&article=645&topic=38. R&

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