1 Peter 3:15

KJV

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:

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} sanctify {G37} the Lord {G2962} God {G2316} in {G1722} your {G5216} hearts {G2588}: and {G1161} be ready {G2092} always {G104} to {G4314} give an answer {G627} to every man {G3956} that asketh {G154} you {G5209} a reason {G3056} of {G4012} the hope {G1680} that is in {G1722} you {G5213} with {G3326} meekness {G4240} and {G2532} fear {G5401}:

Complete Jewish Bible

but treat the Messiah as holy, as Lord in your hearts; while remaining always ready to give a reasoned answer to anyone who asks you to explain the hope you have in you — yet with humility and fear,

Berean Standard Bible

But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect,

American Standard Version

but sanctify in your hearts Christ as Lord: being ready always to give answer to every man that asketh you a reason concerning the hope that is in you, yet with meekness and fear:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The Apostle Peter exhorts believers, particularly those facing persecution, to cultivate an internal reverence for Christ as Lord, which then empowers them to be consistently prepared to articulate the logical basis of their Christian hope. This articulation, or defense of faith, must always be delivered with a spirit of humility and profound respect for both God and the inquirer, ensuring the message is conveyed with grace and integrity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within Peter's broader theological and pastoral counsel to suffering believers. Immediately preceding [1 Peter 3:15](/1_peter/3-15 "1 Peter 3:15 - Be Ready to Give an Answer") is an exhortation to not fear human threats but to suffer for righteousness' sake, echoing the example of Christ's own suffering ([1 Peter 3:14](/1_peter/3-14 "1 Peter 3:14 - Suffering for Righteousness")). The command to "sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts" serves as the foundational internal posture that enables the external witness. Following this verse, Peter continues to emphasize the importance of maintaining a good conscience, even when slandered, so that accusers may be put to shame ([1 Peter 3:16](/1_peter/3-16 "1 Peter 3:16 - Maintaining a Good Conscience")). The entire passage from [1 Peter 3:8-22](/1_peter/3-8-22 "1 Peter 3:8-22 - Living Righteously Amidst Suffering") forms a cohesive unit addressing Christian conduct amidst hostility, culminating in Christ's triumph over suffering.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter writes to scattered Christians (likely in Asia Minor, as indicated in [1 Peter 1:1](/1_peter/1-1 "1 Peter 1:1 - Peter's Greeting to the Exiles")) who are experiencing various forms of social ostracism, slander, and potentially official persecution. They were a minority group whose distinct lifestyle and allegiance to Christ often led to misunderstanding and hostility from the dominant Greco-Roman culture. In such an environment, Christians were frequently questioned about their beliefs and practices, which seemed strange or even subversive to their pagan neighbors. The concept of giving an "apologia" (defense) was well-understood in the Greco-Roman world, referring to a formal, reasoned defense in a legal or public setting. Peter adapts this concept, calling believers to be ready to offer a reasoned defense of their faith not necessarily in a courtroom, but in the everyday interactions where their "hope" would naturally prompt inquiry.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes in [1 Peter](/1_peter/1 "The First Epistle of Peter"). Foremost is the theme of **Christian Witness and Apologetics**, emphasizing the believer's responsibility to articulate their faith clearly and respectfully. It also underscores the **Supremacy of Christ**, as believers are commanded to "sanctify the Lord God in your hearts," placing Him in His rightful position of authority. The letter consistently highlights the **Suffering and Hope of the Believer**, portraying hope not as mere optimism but as a confident expectation rooted in Christ's resurrection ([1 Peter 1:3](/1_peter/1-3 "1 Peter 1:3 - A Living Hope")). Finally, the call to respond "with meekness and fear" reinforces the theme of **Holy Conduct and Humility**, urging believers to reflect Christ's character even in challenging circumstances, as seen throughout Peter's ethical instructions (e.g., [1 Peter 2:11-17](/1_peter/2-11-17 "1 Peter 2:11-17 - Living as Free People")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sanctify (Greek, _hagiázō_):** From G37, meaning "to make holy, purify or consecrate; to venerate." In this context, it means to set Christ apart as supremely holy and authoritative within one's inner being, revering Him above all else. This internal act of consecration is the prerequisite for an effective external witness, ensuring that one's defense of faith flows from a heart devoted to God.
* **Answer (Greek, _apología_):** From G627, meaning "a plea, a defense." This is the root of the English word "apologetics." It signifies a reasoned, verbal justification or explanation of one's beliefs, rather than an admission of fault or a casual response. It implies a well-thought-out and coherent presentation of the Christian faith.
* **Meekness (Greek, _praÿtēs_):** From G4240, denoting "mildness, humility." It describes a gentle and considerate disposition, often understood as strength under control, like a tamed horse. In the context of evangelism, it means presenting truth without arrogance, condescension, or a combative spirit, prioritizing the dignity of the inquirer.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts:"** This is the foundational command. Before any external action, believers are called to an internal posture of reverence and submission to Christ as supreme Lord within their innermost being. This means setting Him apart as holy, acknowledging His authority over all thoughts, desires, and allegiances.
* **"and be ready always to give an answer"** Following the internal sanctification, there is an imperative for external readiness. Believers are to be constantly prepared (G2092, _hétoimos_) to articulate their faith. This readiness is not occasional but "always" (G104, _aeí_), suggesting a continuous state of preparedness for opportunities to share.
* **"to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you"** The target of this readiness is "every man" who genuinely seeks an explanation. The inquiry is specifically for a "reason" (G3056, _lógos_), implying a logical, coherent explanation, not just an emotional testimony. This reason pertains to the "hope" (G1680, _elpís_) that is inherent "in you"—the confident expectation of salvation and eternal life rooted in Christ's resurrection.
* **"with meekness and fear:"** This clause specifies the crucial manner of delivery. The defense must be given "with meekness" (G4240, _praÿtēs_), meaning gentleness, humility, and consideration for the questioner. And "with fear" (G5401, _phóbos_), which here denotes reverence for God and His truth, as well as a sober and respectful attitude towards the person asking, recognizing the gravity of the spiritual discussion.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Imperative Mood** ("sanctify," "be ready"), issuing direct commands to the believers. This highlights the non-negotiable nature of both internal devotion and external readiness. The phrase "the hope that is in you" functions as a **Metonymy**, where "hope" stands for the entire Christian faith and its promised future, which is the source of the believer's distinctiveness and the object of inquiry. There is also a significant use of **Juxtaposition** in "meekness and fear," presenting two seemingly distinct but complementary virtues that must characterize the believer's witness. "Meekness" speaks to humility and gentleness towards others, while "fear" speaks to reverence for God and the seriousness of the spiritual encounter, creating a balanced and effective approach to sharing truth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Peter 3:15 provides a foundational theological framework for Christian apologetics, emphasizing that the defense of faith is not merely an intellectual exercise but flows from a deeply consecrated heart. It links internal spiritual devotion directly to external evangelistic responsibility, demonstrating that true witness is rooted in Christ's lordship over one's life. The "hope" mentioned is not a vague optimism but a confident assurance grounded in the historical reality of Christ's resurrection and the promise of eternal life, a hope that should be evident enough in a believer's life to provoke questions from an unbelieving world. This verse underscores the holistic nature of Christian discipleship, where belief, character, and communication are inextricably linked in bearing witness to the gospel.

* [Colossians 4:5-6](/colossians/4-5-6 "Colossians 4:5-6 - Walk in Wisdom Towards Outsiders")
* [Titus 2:7-8](/titus/2-7-8 "Titus 2:7-8 - Show Yourself an Example of Good Works")
* [2 Timothy 2:24-25](/2_timothy/2-24-25 "2 Timothy 2:24-25 - The Lord's Servant Must Not Be Quarrelsome")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Peter 3:15 is a powerful call to intentional Christian living and witness. It challenges believers to move beyond passive faith to an active, prepared engagement with the world. The command to "sanctify the Lord God in your hearts" reminds us that our external witness must always stem from an internal reality—a deep, personal reverence for Christ that shapes our identity and priorities. This means cultivating a vibrant relationship with God through prayer, Scripture, and obedience, allowing His truth to permeate our being. From this foundation, we are then called to be "ready always." This readiness implies both intellectual preparation (understanding what we believe and why) and spiritual sensitivity (being led by the Spirit to discern opportunities). Our lives, marked by the "hope that is in you," should be compelling enough to prompt questions. When those questions arise, the manner of our response—"with meekness and fear"—is as crucial as the content. It demands humility, gentleness, and profound respect for the inquirer, reflecting the character of Christ Himself. This verse is a timeless reminder that our witness is not just about what we say, but how we live and how we say it, all flowing from a heart consecrated to the Lord.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what practical ways can I "sanctify the Lord God in my heart" daily?**
* **What aspects of my Christian "hope" might be most intriguing or confusing to those outside the faith?**
* **What steps can I take to be more "ready" to give a reasoned answer about my faith?**
* **How can I ensure that I am speaking with both "meekness and fear" when discussing spiritual matters, especially in challenging conversations?**

### FAQ

**What does "sanctify the Lord God in your hearts" truly mean in a practical sense?**

Answer: To "sanctify the Lord God in your hearts" means to set Christ apart as holy, supreme, and authoritative within your inner life. Practically, this involves consciously acknowledging His lordship over every area of your thoughts, desires, and decisions. It means prioritizing His will above your own, seeking His glory in all things, and allowing His truth to be the ultimate standard by which you live. This internal reverence is the wellspring from which genuine Christian witness flows, ensuring that your words and actions are aligned with His character and purpose. It's a continuous process of surrender and devotion, making Christ the center of your being, as described in [Colossians 3:1-4](/colossians/3-1-4 "Colossians 3:1-4 - Set Your Minds on Things Above").

**Is this verse primarily about intellectual apologetics, or does it encompass more?**

Answer: While the word "apologia" (answer/reason) certainly implies a reasoned defense, this verse encompasses more than just intellectual apologetics. It begins with the internal command to "sanctify the Lord God in your hearts," indicating that the foundation of witness is a consecrated life. The "hope that is in you" is not merely a set of doctrines but a living reality that shapes one's character and conduct. Therefore, the "reason" (G3056, _lógos_) includes both the logical coherence of Christian truth and the lived experience of that truth in the believer's life. It's about being prepared to explain *why* you believe, but also *how* that belief impacts your life, all delivered with the right attitude of "meekness and fear." This holistic approach to witness is reflected in passages like [Matthew 5:16](/matthew/5-16 "Matthew 5:16 - Let Your Light Shine").

**How does "fear" relate to sharing one's faith, and is it a positive or negative fear?**

Answer: In this context, "fear" (G5401, _phóbos_) refers to a positive, reverential awe and respect, not a negative terror or fright. It encompasses two primary aspects:
1. **Reverence for God:** A deep respect for God's holiness, truth, and the gravity of the gospel message. It means handling God's truth with seriousness and humility, recognizing that you are speaking on His behalf.
2. **Respect for the Inquirer:** A humble and respectful attitude towards the person asking the question, recognizing their dignity as a fellow image-bearer of God and the seriousness of their spiritual journey. It means avoiding arrogance, condescension, or a combative spirit, and instead approaching the conversation with genuine care and sensitivity. This aligns with the wisdom found in [Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Peter 3:15 finds its ultimate fulfillment and paradigm in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the one whom we are to "sanctify... in our hearts," for He is the Lord God incarnate, worthy of all reverence and worship. Christ perfectly exemplified the "meekness" (G4240, _praÿtēs_) Peter commands, as seen in His humble submission to the Father's will even unto death ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility and Exaltation")) and His gentle interactions with sinners and outcasts ([Matthew 11:29](/matthew/11-29 "Matthew 11:29 - Christ's Gentle Yoke")). Furthermore, Jesus was always "ready" to give an "answer" and a "reason" for the "hope" He embodied, whether in His parables, His teachings in the temple, or His responses to His accusers ([John 7:46](/john/7-46 "John 7:46 - No One Ever Spoke Like This Man")). His entire life and ministry were the ultimate "apologia" for God's love and truth, culminating in His resurrection, which is the very foundation of the "hope" that is in every believer ([1 Corinthians 15:3-4](/1_corinthians/15-3-4 "1 Corinthians 15:3-4 - The Gospel of Christ's Resurrection")). Thus, living out [1 Peter 3:15](/1_peter/3-15 "1 Peter 3:15 - Be Ready to Give an Answer") is not merely following a command, but participating in the ongoing mission of Christ, reflecting His character and proclaiming His saving work to a world in need of His glorious hope ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - You Will Be My Witnesses")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Colossians 4:6

Let your speech [be] alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

2 Timothy 2:25

In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

2 Timothy 2:26

And [that] they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

Luke 21:14

Settle [it] therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer:

Luke 21:15

For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.

1 Peter 3:2

While they behold your chaste conversation [coupled] with fear.

1 Samuel 12:7

Now therefore stand still, that I may reason with you before the LORD of all the righteous acts of the LORD, which he did to you and to your fathers.