Verse 2
2. Readiness for a suitable defence of their faith, 15, 16.
Be ready For an account to men, while thus having supreme regard for Christ.
Always No exception as to time.
An answer An apology, in the old sense of a defence of what is true, with a refutation of objections. St.
Paul’s speech before Agrippa (Acts 26:0) is a masterly specimen.
Every… asketh Honest inquirers should receive instruction; cavillers and revilers are entitled only to silence. Matthew 7:6; Matthew 27:12. But probably magistrates are especially meant.
A reason An intelligent, rational account. The Romish response of “I believe because the Church believes,” is thus repudiated beforehand.
Of the hope That is, of eternal glory, involving the basis of truth in fact and doctrine, upon which it rests. The answer thus became a defence of Christianity itself, seldom, indeed, with the learning and power of a St. Paul, a Justin Martyr, or a Tertullian, but always with intelligence and reason.
Meekness With clearness and firmness, but (so the oldest MSS. read) with modesty in speech and bearing, and not with insolence or arrogance.
Fear Due respect to the interrogator.
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