Apologists, remember who you're witnessing for

In 1 Peter 3:15-16, we find the foundation for apologetics. "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed."

We see, then, that God is the foundation for apologetics. Specifically, we are to sanctify Him in our hearts, and keep a clear conscience. Unbelievers will be held accountable for their response to the message we preach, but it is vital to remember that we will be held accountable for the manner in which we preach it.

If we preach the Gospel reasonably, and with a clear conscience, we do well. But what if we preach it with many cuss words and insults? Not only will those who speak maliciously against us have an excuse to do so, but we will also be held accountable to God. Thus, let us keep in mind that the God we preach to others is also Lord over us.