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Apostle Paul gives an apparently simple instruction to the Colossians in regard to how to answer questions posed to them from those who do not believe about their belief in Jesus Christ. In the time we live this is almost a daily occurrence so what can we learn from his lesson?

The Apostle Paul was telling us to remain humble and not elevate ourselves when we are discussing what we believe whilst also being confident in our knowledge of the truth. Whenever we are sharing our faith, this balance between humility and confidence is essential.

In practical terms, it means that our words should express tolerance, thankfulness, and kindness. As with so many things in life it is so much harder to achieve than it is to say.

God gives Grace to the humble and if we don’t remain in humility, the person we are speaking to will think we are criticising them, or worse judging them. One of the ways to achieve this sharing is to confirm that we are all in the same imperfect state and all require Grace.

Salt is used for cleaning and preserving. Having what we say guided by the Holy Spirit is the way that we can have our speech seasoned with wisdom and consideration. The Holy Spirit is within and has the role to speak of Christ and so this message tells us that when we speak in such a manner the message of Christ is preserved in the hearer. If we take this analogy further, we can see that if the hearer then allows the Word of God, Jesus Christ, into their heart, it has the ability to preserve their life.

The Apostle Peter confirms the same message as to how to answer genuine enquiries of faith. 1 Peter 3:15, “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:” He uses the words ‘meekness’ and ‘fear’ meaning ‘gentleness’ and ‘reverence’ to express the same need for balance in our answers to those who question.

Let us listen to our own words to others. Are we using words of tolerance rather than judgement, thankfulness rather than complaining and kindness as opposed to bitterness?