“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope” (Romans 15:4).

We’re been talking about responding to challenges to your faith. We’ve all most likely had them.

I often say, “The more you get into God’s word, the more God’s word gets into you.” The idea is this. When you spend time with the teaching and wisdom God shares with us in the Bible, the more they deeply penetrate into your heart and mind. They become a more natural part of your thinking.

At the same time, the less you get into God’s word, the less God’s word gets into you. This isn’t to make you feel bad. It’s to make you feel motivated.

So, what do you do if you don’t feel very confident in defending your faith?

The first step is to simply identify what you need to understand or explain better. I’m not sure how to respond to ________________.

The second step is to do some biblical research. (And I’m not talking about a quick Google search.)

-You can read your Bible. 
-You can pray for the Holy Spirit to illuminate you. 
-You can get a good Study Bible. (I think that every home should have at least one. If this is new to you, check out the resource link below.)
-You can study or talk about the Bible and your questions with others. 
-You can sit under biblical preaching.
-You can subscribe to Bible-based podcasts. 

You may not do all of these things, but you can do some of them. 

Jesus consistently referred back to the Scriptures to respond to challenges. In so doing he taught us to do the same. We need to know our own story.

You defend your faith by knowing your faith.

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Notes and extra content:

–“Helpful Study Bibles” (blog and podcast). Click here.

–“Defend your faith by knowing your faith.” Sermon. September 29, 2024. Click here.

–New Podcast: “Transgenderism and Sexuality — a talk with The Union.” Click here.

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.