When Peter tells us—ordinary Christians—to be ready with answers, we should not be surprised. Peter has already laid the groundwork by revealing our new, priestly roles. Remember that 1 Peter is addressed to Christians scattered across Asia Minor (1 Peter 1:1). Peter calls all these Christians (and us) “a holy priesthood” (1 Peter 2:5), then he makes this sweeping statement:
You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9).
As a Jew, Peter well knows the law of Moses and its exclusive role for priests. They come only from the family of Aaron. They are separate from ordinary Jews. They lead worship and religious instruction. Yet now, Peter describes Christians in general as a holy and royal “priesthood.” Nor is this a mere title, a formality, with no practical meaning. Rather, this is an active priesthood (1 Peter 1:5). Now, you speak out for God: “You… proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9). Who better to convey the call that those who have answered it? Who better to tell of the change from darkness to light than those who experience it?
This proclaiming role helps to explain 1 Peter 3:15. You—yes, you—are “always prepared” to give answers about your hope in Christ. You don’t have to pass the question to a higher authority. You don’t have to consult a priest. You are a priest. You know why Christ is your hope, and proclaiming Him is your priestly duty and privilege (Romans 15:16).