In every generation, followers of Christ are called to stand as witnesses to the truth of the gospel. The Apostle Peter gives us this timeless instruction in 1 Peter 3:15:
“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.”
This call is not limited to theologians or apologists. It is a mandate for every believer. But to defend the truth effectively, we must understand the foundation of the Christian worldview and how it stands in stark contrast to unbelieving systems of thought.
1. The Bible as the Absolute Truth of Reality
The Christian life begins and is sustained by the conviction that the Bible is the absolute truth—God’s unchanging revelation to humanity.
Jesus on the Solid Foundation – Matthew 7:24–27
Jesus compares those who hear and obey His words to a wise man who built his house on the rock. When storms came, the house stood firm. In the same way, when our worldview is anchored in God’s Word, we have the wisdom and stability to answer the questions of life with confidence.
Paul’s Defense Before His Accusers – Acts 22:1
Paul stood before hostile audiences and reasoned with them from the Scriptures. His approach was not defensive in fear but confident in the truth of God’s revelation. This is the pattern for us: speak the truth with clarity and conviction, even in opposition.
2. The Foundation of the Christian Worldview
The biblical worldview begins with God as the Creator of all things and the Creator–creature distinction.
God as Creator – John 1:3
“All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being.”
Everything exists because God created it. This truth sets Christianity apart from all worldviews that deny divine creation.
God’s Independence – Romans 11:36
“For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.”
This verse shows the threefold reality of God’s sovereignty:
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From Him – All things originate with God.
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Through Him – All things are sustained by God’s power.
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To Him – All things exist for God’s glory.
Creation’s Dependence – Acts 17:25; Colossians 1:17
Paul reminds us that God “Himself gives to all people life and breath and all things” and that Christ “is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” The universe is not self-sustaining—it is upheld moment by moment by the will of God.
3. God Revealed to Mankind
God has not left Himself hidden. He has made Himself known in two primary ways.
General Revelation – Romans 1:20; Psalm 97:6
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“For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen…” (Romans 1:20)
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“The heavens declare His righteousness, and all the peoples have seen His glory.” (Psalm 97:6)
Every sunrise, every star in the sky, every detail of creation points to the reality of the Creator. This witness leaves humanity “without excuse.”
Special Revelation – 2 Timothy 3:16–17
“All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.”
God’s Word provides truth that creation alone cannot reveal—His redemptive plan, His covenant promises, and His call to holiness.
4. Humanity’s Dependence on God
The Creator–creature distinction is not merely theological—it shapes how we understand ourselves and our place in the world.
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“Know that the Lord Himself is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.” (Psalm 100:3)
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In Christ “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Colossians 2:3)
We are not self-made. We are utterly dependent on the One who gives us life, breath, wisdom, and truth.
5. Living and Speaking the Defense
To defend the Christian truth:
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Stand on the authority of Scripture – It is the unshakable foundation.
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Recognize the Creator’s sovereignty – All things come from, through, and for Him.
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Acknowledge our dependence – Every breath is a gift from God.
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Point to God’s revelation – Both in creation and in His Word.
The goal is not to win debates but to bear witness to the reality of the living God and advance His Kingdom.
Pull Quote:
“A defense of the truth is not merely about answering questions—it is about declaring the glory of the One who made all things and holds them together.”
Summary
The Christian worldview rests on God’s revelation—through creation, through Scripture, and through Christ Himself. All things exist by Him, through Him, and for Him. As His people, we are called to defend this truth with clarity, confidence, and compassion.
Key Points:
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The Bible is the absolute truth of reality.
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God is the independent Creator; creation is fully dependent on Him.
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God has revealed Himself through creation and through His Word.
Engaging Question:
When the opportunity comes to explain your faith, will you be ready to stand on the unshakable foundation of God’s truth?
