A Simple Reflection on Freedom, Justice, and 1 Peter 3:15
Looking Back and Moving Forward on Civil Rights
Today, as we mark an annual day dedicated to civil rights, it’s a good time to think about the State of the Union—where our country stands and how far we’ve come in the fight for freedom and equality. These are freedoms that Christ gave His life for, that leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. stood up for, and that we all should cherish and protect.
Christian Nationalism Isn’t Christianity
Lately, some have mixed Christianity with national pride, calling it “Christian nationalism.” But true Christianity is not about politics or using faith to justify certain actions. It’s about the message of Jesus—love, mercy, and justice for all, not just a select few. When faith gets tangled with ideology, its true meaning can be lost.
Inspired by Civil Rights Leaders
Dr. King and countless others gave everything to ensure future generations would share in the same freedoms. Their sacrifice reminds us that fighting for justice never goes out of style. Even today, those freedoms are being put to the test, and it’s up to us to stand firm for what is right.
Nothing New Under the Sun
The Bible says, “There is nothing new under the sun.” In other words, history repeats itself. We see the same kinds of struggles—unfair treatment, twisted justice, and division—coming back again and again. Learning from history helps us respond wisely to what happens now.
When Justice Gets Twisted
Justice should mean fairness for everyone. But sometimes, justice gets distorted and laws end up hurting instead of helping. That’s why we have to keep asking: Are we standing up for true justice, or only protecting our own interests? Real justice takes courage and humility.
Defending Your Faith: What It Really Means
Defending your faith, also known as apologetics, isn’t about arguing or proving you’re right. It’s about knowing what you believe, why you believe it, and being able to explain it calmly and kindly. It’s listening, asking good questions, and showing through your actions that your faith makes a positive difference.
- Know Your Beliefs: Learn the basics of your faith so you can answer questions.
- Use Reason and Evidence: Show that your beliefs are logical and grounded.
- Practice Respectful Dialogue: Talk to others with genuine respect and care.
- Lean on Scripture: Let verses like 1 Peter 3:15 guide you to defend your hope gently and respectfully.
- Engage in Culture: Let your faith be relevant to everyday life and big issues.
- Live It Out: Actions often speak louder than words—let your life reflect your beliefs.
How to Defend Your Faith
- Listen Well: Pay attention to others’ real struggles.
- Ask Questions: Use sincere, gentle questions to spark meaningful conversations.
- Be Ready with Answers: Clearly explain your beliefs using both reason and kindness.
- Let Actions Show Your Faith: Back up your words with loving actions.
Common Challenges
Questions about God’s existence, the Bible’s reliability, miracles, suffering, and more often come up. Remember, answering with grace is just as important as knowing the facts.
1 Peter 3:15: The Heart of Apologetics
1 Peter 3:15 tells believers to honor Christ in their hearts and always be ready to explain the hope inside them—with gentleness and respect. When you face tough questions or even hard times, this verse reminds you not to be afraid, but to respond with kindness, rooted in a confident hope, not fear.
- Sanctify Christ in Your Heart: Put Jesus first inside yourself.
- Be Ready to Defend What You Believe: Be prepared to share your hope in Christ thoughtfully.
- Answer with Gentleness and Respect: Don’t get defensive—share kindly, even with those who disagree.
Let Your Life Show What You Believe
We honor God when our actions invite others to see and know Him. True faith isn’t just about words or traditions, but about a transformed heart—living with integrity, compassion, and patience, even when life is tough.
Christ’s example shows us how to endure suffering patiently and remain hopeful. If He endured hardship, we can too, trusting that God sees all and cares about every generation. Let’s not settle for outward religion or just going through the motions. Let’s seek real spiritual change, trusting in Christ’s resurrection as our source of peace and hope.
Minister A Francine Green
January 2026
afrancinegreen.com 