Christian Apologetics

The term ‘Christian apologetics’ doesn’t refer to apologizing (or saying ‘sorry’) for being a Christian. The confusion arises because the English word apology now has a rather different meaning from the Greek word from which it was derived: απολογια (apología). The latter meant defence. The Greek term comes from words meaning ‘out of logic/reason’, so refers to a reasoned defence that would be given in a court of law. The classic example is Plato’s Apology, Socrates’ defence against the charges of atheism and corrupting the youth.

Christian apologetics is the reasoned defence of the Christian faith against objections, but also includes the setting forth of positive grounds for Christianity. It is the duty of all Christians, because:

• The Lord Jesus Christ commanded: ‘Love the Lord your God … with all your mind’ (Matthew 22:37)

• The Apostle Peter commanded Christians: ‘Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have’ (1 Peter 3:15)

• The Apostle Paul said: ‘We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ’ (2 Corinthians 10:5).

Article: Answers in Genesis

I believe the following Corinthian passage goes along with Deuteronomy 33:29 (below). I think when we freely give an unbeliever, even our enemy, a higher way to think, e.g., the concepts and precepts of God, we tread on their high places. They will no longer need to live the lie they have created for themselves. Freely giving Life, in a Loving manner, is my understanding of the true Apologetic. Kill the world, by giving them eternal life and doing it with the sword of our excellency—the word of God.

2 Corinthians 10:
1 Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:
2 But I beseech you, that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.
3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:
4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)
5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
6 And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.

De 33:29 Happy art thou, O Israel: who is like unto thee, O people saved by the LORD, the shield of thy help, and who is the sword of thy excellency! and thine enemies shall be found liars unto thee; and thou shalt tread upon their high places.

Blessings to you and yours...

Very good post Chad.

A+

Troy

I was never really encouraged to study the word, sadly. I was only used to being spoon-fed, as indeed are many believers. Only in the last four years have i studied seriously and with intent which has not only strengthened me but also helped me become a lot more confident when answering a non-believer who is challenging or questioning the word, instead of coming away limping because i did not know the bible at all well.

It is absolutely imperative that we study, so that we can offer an answer in defence of the true gospel.