Be Ready To Give A Reason For Your Hope

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1 Peter 3:15-18 is the classic passage for “apologetics” that branch of theology which explains the reasonability of one’s beliefs. “Apologetics” has fallen into disuse in places where the majority are Catholics and its place has been taken by the idea of “inter-religious dialogue”. In the Philippines, however, the need for “apologetics” is being felt in the grassroots level, where families witness how people baptized in the Catholic faith are experiencing the attacks of Christian fundamentalists and are succumbing to their apparently bible-based discourse. In the past, “apologetics” was addressed to non-believers; today, there is a need for an “apologetics” that is addressed to professed anti-Catholic and apparently-Christian groups.

In 1 Peter 3:15-18, there is a clear spirituality pointed out.

1. Readiness. “Semper praeparamini” Be always prepared. This should be the motto of any “Catholic Defender”. Preparation must be rooted in both Scriptures and Tradition. It is the readiness that should derive from a living relationship with the faith of the Church. Without this “readiness”, the apologetic exercise becomes a vain display of half-cooked knowledge.
2. “Gentleness and Reverence.” Truth should be persuasive; it should be clear. The apologist’s task is simply to show it. That is, of course, easier said than done. Peter however recognizes the fact that the Christian apologist when in the docks — so to speak — will be aided not by his own wits, but by the wisdom of God. It is with the boldness that derives from a clear conscience that one can face those who attack the Church.
3. Patience. Long-suffering is one of the fruits of the Spirit. Pope Benedict XVI says it well when he says: “Patience saves; impatience destroys. The patience of God redeems the world; the impatience of men brings the world to destruction.” The apologist may do well to reflect on this.