Answer Questions with Grace
Once you've prayed for opportunities, God will often grant them, and they usually come in the form of a question. Someone might ask you why you seem so happy, how you handle a difficult situation, or what you believe about a specific topic. This is your chance to share your faith, but it’s vital to remember how you answer is just as important as what you answer.
The Golden Rule: Listen First, Speak Second
The core of answering with grace is practicing humility and genuine care. Ministry isn't a debate to win; it's a relationship to build.
Be Quick to Listen, Slow to Speak: Before you jump to an answer, truly listen to the question and the heart behind it. Is the person genuinely seeking information, or are they expressing hurt, fear, or frustration? A gracious answer starts with understanding their perspective.
It's Okay to Say "I Don't Know": As a new Christian, you aren't expected to have a seminary degree. When you get a tough question about theology or complex issues, humility is grace. It is far better to say, "That's a great question, and I don't have the full answer right now, but I'd be happy to find out and get back to you," than to guess or give a defensive, poorly-formed answer.
Speak the Truth in Love
The Bible clearly instructs us on the manner of our response:
"Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect." (1 Peter 3:15 NIV)
This verse gives us three guiding principles for answering with grace:
Be Prepared: Know the core message of the Gospel—the reason for your hope. You don't need all the answers, but you should be able to clearly and simply explain why you follow Jesus.
Be Gentle: Avoid sounding aggressive, judgmental, or arrogant. Use soft language. A gentle answer is disarming and leaves the door open for future conversations.
Be Respectful: Treat the person and their beliefs with dignity, even if you disagree. Respect validates the individual, allowing the Holy Spirit, not a heated argument, to do the convicting work.
When you answer questions, remember that your life is the most compelling evidence you have. Let your demeanor be a living testament to the peace and joy you've found in Christ.
What next?
