GIBI Course Christian Apologetics
Introduction to Apologetics
The word ‘apologetics’ comes from the Greek word ‘apologia’, pronounced, ‘ap-ol-og-ee’-ah.’ It means, ‘a verbal defense.’ It is used eight times in the New Testament; (Acts22:1; 25:16; I Cor. 9:3; II Cor. 7:11; Phil. 1:7, 17; II Tim. 4:16, and I Pet. 3:15). The lastverse is the one that is most commonly associated with Christian Apologetics.I Peter 3:15“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense toeveryone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.”Therefore, Christian Apologetics is that branch of Christianity that deals with answeringany and all critics who oppose or question the revelation of God in Christ and the Bible.It can include studying such subjects as biblical manuscript transmission, philosophy, biology, mathematics, evolution, and logic. It can also consist of just simply giving ananswer to a question about Jesus or a Bible passage. ‘You don’t have to read a ton of books to do that.”
Apologetics Can Be Defensive and Aggressive
Philippians 1:7 gives us instruction on the defensive side:“Just as it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart, in asmuch as both in my chains and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers with me of grace.”II Corinthians 10:4, 5 gives us instruction on the aggressive side:“For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for the pulling down of strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against theknowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.”The apologist should always be able to defend his reasons for believing. Of course, heshould be prepared to do this before engagement begins. All apologetics should be donewith gentleness.
Apologetics is the work of Convincing People to Change their Views
This is very similar to preaching because the goal is ultimately the defense, the preservation, and the presentation of the validity and necessity of the Gospel of JesusChrist.Apologetics is the attempt to persuade the listener to change his beliefs and life toconformity to biblical truth and to come to a saving relationship with the Lord JesusChrist.2
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