The Ultimate Guide to Defending Your Faith
Be brave yet humble. Firm yet gentle. With God by your side, it's not as difficult as it may seem.
There will be times as Christians where we will face opposition and scrutiny for our beliefs. We will be criticized and ridiculed. How do you handle the uncomfortable step of defending your beliefs?
Follow advice from Scriptures.
"This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, explaining spiritual realities with Spirit-taught words." - 1 Corinthians 2:13
You should not avoid discussion in which people have different points of view. Rather, seek first to understand, then to be understood. When the discussion comes up, remember that it is not about scoring points and proving them wrong. A reasoned response comes from a humble heart.
"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." - Proverbs 15:1.
Other churches should not be criticized. Whether you are Lutheran, Catholic, Baptist, Methodist, or any other, positive statements about your beliefs will be more effective than negative. As Prophet Joseph Smith once stated, “We don’t ask any people to throw away any good they have got; we only ask them to come and get more.”
When others come at you with insulting language, don't retaliate. Stick to the message of the Gospel when you're declaring His glad tidings. Don't stray into detailed discussions about slight differences in the Church. Keep it simple.
"But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you"
Everyone deserves kindness and consideration, no matter their beliefs. The Savior has taught us to love not only our friends but also our enemies and those who disagree with us- even those who hate us.
It's not about how smart you are, how capable you are. You can be bold without being the loudest person in the room and without tearing down others opinions.
One day you will be called to defend your faith. These moments will require courage and courtesy on your behalf. Let the Holy Spirit guide you.
Some Notes
- Try to determine the real intent: is the other person trying to start an argument? Or a discussion?
- Look at your motives. Do you want to help someone or do you want to be right?
- Realize your opinion might not be popular but God will be pleased that you stood true to His Word
- Find common ground
- Don't be apologetic for your beliefs
- Don't assume others will be offended when you share your beliefs
- Understand that these concepts may be new to some people
- Remember, it's not your job to change the other person's point of view
- If something comes up that you don't know the answer to, say that! Honestly gains respect
In all our lives, our beliefs will be challenged at one point or another. We live in a secular world and it is our duty to defend our faith when the time comes. Keep God with you to give you strength in every moment by keeping one of these in your wallet or purse.
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