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Reasons for Hope

One the greatest needs every person has is for hope. The Christian faith makes a pretty bold claim to be the ultimate hope for all mankind. It makes sense that this claim must be supported by reasons. Here is an outline for a seminar that I give called "Reasons for Hope."

1 Peter 3:15-16 (NIV)
"15 But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. 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, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. "

There are three foundational reasons for the hope that I have in Christ. They are:
1.    The reality of God’s Lordship
You will find this in the following Biblical passages: 
OT  Gen 15:7, Exodus 20:2, Deut 4:39
NT 1 Tim 6:15, Rev 17:14, Rev 19:16

“The apologetic situation is one in which we are especially to “set apart Jesus Christ as Lord”, to live and speak in such a way that exalts his Lordship and encourages others to do so as well.” John Frame, Apologetics to the Glory of God, page 6. 

2.    The power of God’s Word
Heb 4:12
1 Peter 1:22-25
“Defend the scriptures? I would rather defend a lion!” Great British preacher Charles Spurgeon

3.     The presence of God’s Holy Spirit
Matthew 10:17-20, Acts 1:8
“If we embrace the Christian teaching that Jesus is God and that he went to the Cross, then we have deep consolation to and strength to face the brutal realities of life on earth. We can know that God is truly Immanuel- God with us –even in our worst sufferings.” Tim Keller, The Reason for God, page 31.


Practical Steps for Giving Reasons for Hope
1.       Sandwich approach of Tim Keller
                                                               i.      Appealing Gospel Summary
                                                             ii.      Deal with objections
                                                            iii.      More thorough presentation of the Gospel

2.       Reading and research
                                                   i.      Apologetic resources

3.       Practice
                                                   i.      Reach out on your campus
1.       Group discussions
2.       “Christians in the lions den”
3.       Invite “skeptics” to your small group
                                                             ii.      Consider an international SP
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