WHAT IS APOLOGETICS

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The world is drowning in a flood of opinions and beliefs. As Christians, there is a greater need today for us to know what we actually believe and why we believe it. If we don’t know what we hold on to, we cannot pass it on to others. That’s why apologetics is necessary in our Christian walk. Peter instructed us: “But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense (Greek apologia) to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). Hank Hanegraaf, in his book The Complete Bible Answer Book, gives three simple definitions of apologetics:

DEFENSE OF FAITH

The most basic definition of apologetics is the defense of faith. The Bible instructs us to contend for or affirm the “faith that was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3). A particular faith was passed down from those before us to those after them, eventually reaching us—we are also entrusted to pass it on. Because this faith was entrusted to us, we are expected to defend it reasonably at all costs: “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).

PRE-EVANGELISM

 “It is using our logical answers as springboards or opportunities to share the good news of the gospel” (Hanegraaf). By providing reasonable answers, we prepare people to respond more positively to the Gospel. Jesus and the apostles regularly defended the truth in their preaching. This shows that apologetics and gospel preaching can go hand in hand in effectively reaching the lost.

POST-EVANGELISM

Apologetics also benefits believers who are new to the faith or those maturing in it. Because a wide variety of opinions are circulating that may threaten believers’ faith, apologetics helps us become familiar with the facts and arguments regarding what we believe. Through apologetics, believers can face their doubts and questions without fear of being criticized.

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Apologetics is not only helpful; it is also a rewarding ministry. Christians who want to strengthen their own faith while assisting others should seriously consider becoming apologists: “Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person” (Colossians 4:5-6). Stay Curious.

Source and Study:

Hanegraaf, H. (2008) What is Apologetic?. In The Complete Bible Answer Book. Thomas Nelson.

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