This is the Greek phrase found in Peter’s first epistle exhorting all believers (not just elders, not just “professionals,” but all believers) to always be ready to give a defense, an answer, when asked concerning the hope that is within us. It should strike us that these words were addressed to people who were, by and large, of the lower-class of society, and in many instances, under growing pressure to renounce their faith. Few were highly educated, yet, they were to be ready–always–to give an answer. That implies forethought, preparation…even study! But some might say, “No, no, you should not do that, because Jesus said…”
Mark 13:11 “When they arrest you and hand you over, do not worry beforehand about what you are to say, but say whatever is given you in that hour; for it is not you who speak, but it is the Holy Spirit.
But clearly the context here is different: Jesus is speaking of persecution, not of someone asking of us a reason for the hope that is within us. We are not to obsess about what we will say if the authorities take us at gunpoint, but we are to “always be ready” to give an answer for those who ask us a reason for the hope that is within us.
It is truly my prayer that our small ministry has helped you to be prepared to fulfill this command, and it is my hope that we will continue to assist the saints in this fashion for years to come.
—in the defense and confirmation of the gospel
