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Have you ever been tempted to write off your work colleagues because they misunderstand Christianity?

You couldn't blame Peter's readers if they had. They were scattered among unbelieving Gentiles inclined to believe and spread vicious lies about them. But Peter said not to write them off. Instead, he counseled, show them Christ by gracious, godly, and winsome behavior that would demonstrate that the rumors were false, and might even win some critics to the Lord.

1 Peter 2:12 ; 3:15–16

1. According to Peter, what kinds of initial hostility should believers expect from unbelievers?
2. How should believers disarm their critics?
3. Does Peter expect believers to buttonhole unbelievers with a rehearsed gospel presentation?
4. What does he expect will happen?
5. What is our witnessing responsibility? What are we told about the tone of our response?
6. Do you think your colleagues make the connection Peter assumes they will (3:16) between your life pattern and your belonging to Christ? What might cause them to connect the dots?

Ask for God's power to keep your conscience clear and to relate to coworkers with respect, genuine interest, and compassion. Pray for a Spirit-induced thirst, driving them to seek you out for answers. Ask that you be prepared.

1 Peter 2:12 ; 3:15–16

12Be careful how you live among your unbelieving neighbors. Even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will believe and give honor to God when he comes to judge the world.

15Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if you are asked about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. 16But you must do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak evil against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ.

Copyright © 2004 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.

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Prayer for the Week

Lord, let me know clearly the work that you are calling me to do in life. And grant me every grace I need to answer Your call with courage and love and lasting dedication for Your wiill —St. Meinrad

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