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Good conversation in Christ

1 Peter 3:16
"Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ."

This week we are studying St. Peter's advice in his Epistle. He has built up his lesson to this point evoking the writing in the Psalms and Jesus's own Sermon on the Mount. In yesterday's verse he made the major point; "But sanctify the Lord God in YOUR HEARTS: and be ready always to give an ANSWER to every man that asketh you a reason of the HOPE that is in you with meekness and fear:"

There is a whole lot in this one verse. We need to know and LOVE the Holy Scriptures. Encouragement to respond with conviction and compassion. While also standing up for the faith. Be ready to speak the name of JESUS. Live with conviction for your FAITH in the one TRUE GOD.  Even when you are labeled intolerant. Learn to respect others but know you don't need to share their beliefs.

"with meekness and fear:"
It's natural to fight back. Peter knew this TOO well. Don't be impulsive. Remember who you are. An EXILE in a hostile world. Meet the world in gladness. Rooted in the wholeness of God. Let the wicked world know us by our love. Show compassion to this hostile culture. Our conviction will be in stark contrast with others and the pressure to fit in with the world will be great; don't give in. Stay faithful and stay apart from the culture. 

Today's verse develops Peter's point further; "Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ." The good conscience being MUCH BETTER than a guilty conscience that causes you anguish and remorse. People of this world are vain, proud, haughty, and arrogant. They will gossip and lie about you; "speak evil." Our task is to live in such a way that no one will believe them. And, maybe they will be ashamed of how they treaded you. "Conversation" in the KJV is best though of as lifestyle. It's how we interact with other in our community and here we clearly see that it needs to be good and, most importantly, "in Christ." Meaning everyone needs to know we are a Jesus freak.

We have to show compassion in this hostile culture. We must learn to love others deeply. Offer them hospitality. Look for open doors… open opportunities to share the Gospel. Let people see your conviction and passion.  Bring it all together for our Lord and Savior!

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