This next set of commands are the “be” commands. God is telling us to take some sort of appropriate action but this first requires us to know what to do, how to do it and when to do it. It all comes down to studying God’s Word so we know what the Lord requires of us in all circumstances. With this knowledge of God’s word and our intelligence, willpower and emotions we are equipped to obey the commands of God.
33. Be men in understanding, 1 Corinthians 14:20. Previously addressed under, “Do not be children in understanding.”
34. Be children in avoiding malice, 1 Corinthians 14:20 – See above. Be as innocent as children in your motives.
35. Be harmless as doves.
Matthew 10:16 – Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.
Witnesses for Christ have to be able to discern who is ready to hear the gospel of Christ and at the same time not argue with anyone or offend them.
36. Be as wise as serpents. See above Scripture and note.
37. Be gentle to all men.
2 Timothy 2:24 – And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient.
Ties in with the two previous commands. The believer must have self-control and humility when witnessing for Christ. When witnessing don’t reciprocate anger and gently disengage in the face of hostility or negative emotions. They are not ready.
38, Be ready to teach, 2 Timothy 2:24. See previous command. When witnessing for Christ you must be prepared to answer any question the unbeliever may have that will help them come to a decision for God. That requires that you study God’s Word.
39. Be ready to give an answer of the hope that is in you.
1 Peter 3:15 – 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.
This is a rephrasing of the two previous commands, “Be ready to teach” and “Be gentle to all men”. God is telling us how we should witness for Christ so as not to put people off by warning us not to be argumentative and to know our facts through Bible study.
40. Be an example to other believers.
1 Timothy 4:12 – Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in the word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
We encourage other believers by being holy and glorify God by emulating Christ.
Witnessing for Christ