What we believe is important. Knowing what we believe with confidence is also important. In last week’s post, we learn that we should know God for yourselves and the importance of reading and studying the Bible.
This week we will look at the last two of the four ways to learn how to defend your faith. Read Part 1
3. Apply what you’re learning
What good is it if you know a lot of Bible verses if they don’t change your life?
“What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.” James 2:14-17 NLT
The point of studying the Bible is to know God and follow His commands. We can’t do this if we do not read and study the Bible.
Knowledge of God’s Word is useless unless you apply what you have learned.
It is helpful if you have a community to hold you accountable. This could be a mentor, friend, or spouse. Someone, you can discuss what you are learning and how you can apply it.
4. Prayer
So many ideas and worldviews are swirling around our culture today. Not just secular ideology but so-called “Christian ideology” that does not align with Scripture. It is not only essential to study the Word, but also we must pray for wisdom and discernment.
“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” James 1:5 NLT
Satan can craft scripture in such a way that seems right but is totally out of context, therefore, skewing the true meaning of scripture.
As believers, we need help to understand the message God has given in His Word and discernment to know when something is mishandled or twisted for selfish purposes.
Learning to defend your faith takes dedication if it comes from a desire to share the good news of Christ with the people around you.
Below are some resources to help you on this journey.
Tactics: A Game Plan for Discussing Your Christian Convictions By Gregory Koukl
Expository Apologetics: Answering Objections with the Power of the Word By Voddie Baucham Jr.
The Harvest Handbook of Apologetics Joseph M. Holden General Editor
Evidence that Demands a verdict: Life-changing truth for a skeptical world By Josh McDowell & Sean McDowell (updated edition)
“Lord, thank you for revealing yourself to us. Give us understanding as we study your Word and learn to apply it to our lives. In Jesus’ Name Amen.”
