Apologetics – The Term
Even though the word Apologetics sounds like it is connected to the word apologize, it isn’t. Apologetics comes from the Greek word apologia, which means a legal defense as in a court of law. Apologetics is used to make a case for the truth of Christianity.
Peter uses the word apologia in:
1 Peter 3:15 (NASB95)
but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense (apologia) to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;
Notice Three Important Aspects of this Verse
- Always be ready or prepared to make a defense
- To everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you
- Yet, with gentleness and reverence
So what’s the take away?
- The English word Apologetics is derived from the biblical Greek word apologia. (1 Peter 3:15)
- Apologia means to make a legal defense.
- We are to be prepared to make this defense to anyone or everyone who asks.
- Apologetics is to be handled gently and respectfully.
The Bible and Apologetics
You may be asking yourself, are there examples of Apologetics in the bible?
Here are 3 Biblical Examples of Apologetics in use:
- Jesus defended himself in John 14:11, notice how Jesus defends his position.
John 14:11 (NASB95)
“Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me; otherwise believe because of the works themselves.”
- Paul argues the existence of God through His physical creation in Acts 14:17.
Acts 14:17 (NASB95) and yet He did not leave Himself without witness, in that He did good and gave you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, satisfying your hearts with food and gladness.
- Again Paul argues from nature in Romans 1:20
Romans 1:20 (NASB95)
For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.
Why Should I Learn Apologetics?
- The culture is departing from biblical truth.
- The culture is becoming the basis of what’s acceptable in society, replacing biblical truth.
- The truths of the Christian faith are under intense scrutiny, being reassessed so that publicly Christianity is no longer considered the societal norm, but quickly becoming an outdated fringe ideology.
- Apologetics will help ground our young men and woman in a way that will help them as they encounter skeptics in their high schools and universities.
As the culture gets darker we are commanded to let our light shine. (Matt. 5:16)
Are you ready?