Pre-planned police and military tactical operations are preceded by a briefing. In films, tactical briefings are never depicted accurately because they would be far too detailed for most viewers’ interest. Instead, Hollywood portrays a strong-chinned, steely-eyed commander (complete with salt-and-pepper hair) barking out over-generalized assignments. “Cunningham, you’ve got eyes on the entrance! Jackson, you cover the back! Sanchez, the basement is yours!”
In reality, nearly every aspect of a high-risk tactical operation is scripted. The route to the location, the order of personnel, what weapon or tool each person is assigned, each person’s prescribed area of responsibility, etc. It’s all documented and distributed before the leader audibly walks the team through each detail of the operation. At the end of the brief it’s common to conduct a “brief back,” requiring participants to repeat their individual responsibilities. This helps to reveal any weaknesses in the plan and expose any potential misunderstandings. The time invested into tactical planning and effective communication is enormous, but it’s essential because the stakes are so high.
Is there anything in the Christian’s life that deserves that level of conscientious preparation? Yes, it’s the defense of your faith. Many Christians fear the idea of talking to others about Christ, which leads to guilt over being fearful. While taking the initiative to insert the gospel into conversations is a worthwhile goal, there is an alternate strategy that the Bible puts greater emphasis on—one with less fear and guilt.
Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. (1 Peter 3:13–16)
This text doesn’t start with a Christian and a bullhorn, but with the example of one living a godly life (“zealous for what is good”). When you openly live a biblically consistent, God-honoring life you are bound to experience opposition. In addition to assuring you that you need not be afraid of that hostility, these verses instruct you to be “prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason” for your hope in Christ.
That kind of preparation involves two things. First, you need to be prepared spiritually. After the affirmation that you need not be afraid, you are told to “honor Christ the Lord as holy.” The obedient living that initiated the conflict should continue with a believing mind. You will enjoy the assurance guaranteed in these verses if you actually trust in the promise. If someone were to unexpectantly question you about why you choose to live for Christ, would you be gripped with fear or would you be at peace, knowing that whatever happens next is under God’s control? Pray that God would sanctify your attitude about the defense of your faith. Prepare yourself spiritually for that conflict by trusting in His promises before you need them. Ask God to help you fear Him and not man.
Second, you must prepare yourself intellectually. If someone has a real question about your faith you need to have a real answer. It’s important that you’re prepared with a response to a “why.” What would the unafraid version of you say to a legitimate question about why you speak to your spouse in love, or why you parent with patience or why you refuse to lie when asked to by your boss? Have you prepared an understandable, biblical response? These interactions is often where real witnessing takes place. These are some of the best opportunities to share the gospel of hope, and now is the time to prepare. The stakes are greater than any tactical operation in history. So when it comes to the defense of your faith, are you ready or not?
And we are His house, if indeed we hold fast our confidence and our boasting in our hope. (Heb. 3:6)