Why Apologetics?
Tim Barnett from Stand to Reason and Red Pen Logic details why in this way: “The Bible commands it, the culture demands it, the Church needs it, and the results confirm it.”
The word “apologia” in Greek refers to providing a “reasonable defense.”
Many of us, daily, give an apologia/apologetic for numerous beliefs we hold! For the Christian, our defense isn’t a fleshly defensiveness, but instead a loving dialogue shared with someone regarding the reasons for the hope we’ve been given through the Gospel. In fact, respectfully providing a gentle apologia was strongly encouraged by the earliest Christians, namely Peter and Paul.
The important thing to remember is that giving a reasonable defense of a position should involve kindness, respect, and a listening ear. It is not about winning an argument, but is instead about being clear,…and making a earnest case. We desperately need more of these types of dialogues today.
📙 “Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord…” Isaiah 1:18
📙“See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.” Colossians 2:8
📙“We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,” 2 Corinthians 10:5
📙“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.” 2 Timothy 4:2
📙“But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.”
1 Peter 3:15
Quote Source:
Hold Fast Apologetics 