Debate vs. Defending
"But in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, ready at any time to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you". This verse may indicate that believers are responsible for defending their faith, but some say that the real defense is through witness to others." ~ 1 Peter 3:15
The Bible instructs us to defend our faith, but there is a crucial difference between debating and defending.
Debating
Debating, often referred to as apologetics, generally serves little purpose in converting people. Those engaged in these debates typically focus on proving others wrong and asserting their views, rather than being open to listening and understanding.
Most unbelievers seek tangible proof, which Christians cannot tangibly prove. This leaves the Christian debater in a circular argument, akin to trying to prove love to someone who doesn't believe in it. All we can offer is evidence, not absolute proof.
Jesus never debated the existence of God. While He responded to skeptics like the Pharisees, He never sought out debates. The Pharisees were not interested in the truth; they only aimed to discredit Jesus. Their blindness to the truth led them to deny Him and orchestrate His arrest.
Jesus focused not on debating but on declaring and defending.
Declaring and Defending Our Faith
Declaration of Our Faith
As Christians, we are called to provide a reason for the hope that is within us. We are meant to live by faith and obedience to God's instructions, not conforming to the world's system but living for God's Kingdom. By living for God, we declare to the world what we truly value.
Defending Our Faith
When we live fully committed to God, people will take notice. They will wonder, question, and become curious about why we live this way. This is when we must be ready to defend and explain our way of life.
The Power of Evangelism
The clearest evidence of God is when the Holy Spirit manifests. The power of the Holy Spirit becomes evident through our full commitment and surrender to God. This often prompts people to question and reflect on the reality of God. At this stage, our words can help them understand why we have dedicated our lives to God rather than living for this world. If they still choose not to believe, we must simply dust off our shoes and move on, leaving behind debates that show they are not yet ready to hear.