I have on occasion seen members of the Church who are upset if they are asked about their ultimate convictions or “testimonies.” They seem to see this as an unfair intrusion.

Certainly, no one can be forced to articulate their issues of ultimate concern. Such things are personal, and move us deeply.

But, I do not understand the grudging attitude which some adopt, the I-shouldn’t-have-to-do-this-but-I-will-to-shut-you-up stance.

Perhaps that’s true. Perhaps they shouldn’t “have” to do it (whatever that means). But, why would you mind?

True disciples are “ready always” to contribute articulately to God’s work at any time and in any place (1 Peter 3:15).

Neal A. Maxwell, That Ye May Believe (Salt Lake City, UT: Deseret Book, 1992), 15.

Some act as if giving “an answer” (an apologia in the language of 1 Peter cited by Elder Maxwell) is something optional, or beneath them, or inappropriate given their role or venue.

Elder Maxwell and Peter seem to disagree.