Apologetic (from Greek απολογία) is the discipline of defending a position through the systematic use of information. Apology means to express regret but it also means to speak in defense. We will be using the latter of the two definitions.
We are commanded to do apologetics in the Bible.
In 1 Peter 3:15-16, "but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready 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;" The word “defense” in the original Greek is apologia (ä-pä-ˈlä-g(ē-)ə). We derive the word apologetics from apologia. The word “account” in the original Greek is logos. We derive the word logic from logos. The words "gentleness and reverence [respect]" are important because facts not motivated by the fruits of the spirit as mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23 are just that, only facts. The words "keep a good conscience" means be intellectually and factually honest when presenting the case for Christ. There is no reason to lie. Facts are on our side.
Logic is a tool for the Christian. It is nothing to be afraid of. In fact, if you accept the truth that logic "belongs" to God, then you should be encouraged to use it. But, don’t let it become an idol; that is, it is not the answer to problem, only a tool. Only Jesus Christ is the answer to all problems. As Christians, we need to use logic, as well as evidence, prayer, God's word, love, kindness, etc., in our efforts to win people to Jesus. Reasoning has a valuable place in apologetics and with the believer. It is worth doing well. But, use it with love, prayer, and patience.
We are commanded to do apologetics in the Bible.
In 1 Peter 3:15-16, "but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready 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;" The word “defense” in the original Greek is apologia (ä-pä-ˈlä-g(ē-)ə). We derive the word apologetics from apologia. The word “account” in the original Greek is logos. We derive the word logic from logos. The words "gentleness and reverence [respect]" are important because facts not motivated by the fruits of the spirit as mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23 are just that, only facts. The words "keep a good conscience" means be intellectually and factually honest when presenting the case for Christ. There is no reason to lie. Facts are on our side.
Logic is a tool for the Christian. It is nothing to be afraid of. In fact, if you accept the truth that logic "belongs" to God, then you should be encouraged to use it. But, don’t let it become an idol; that is, it is not the answer to problem, only a tool. Only Jesus Christ is the answer to all problems. As Christians, we need to use logic, as well as evidence, prayer, God's word, love, kindness, etc., in our efforts to win people to Jesus. Reasoning has a valuable place in apologetics and with the believer. It is worth doing well. But, use it with love, prayer, and patience.
Please download the following thesis if you like. I hope it helps you on your journey.
layman_apologetics_thesis_12_23_2021.docx | |
File Size: | 1395 kb |
File Type: | docx |
Great resource links
Michael
These are some resources that I really enjoy. There are many more but if you start here you will learn more about defending you Faith than you may have ever thought possible. Enjoy learning. Although there are a lot of great resources on this website, not every view that are shared within these links or others links on this site are also shared by us.
Always Be Ready
Alpha Omega Ministries
Apologetics 315
Ask Dr. Brown
Associates for Biblical Research
Braxton Hunter
Be Thinking
Christian Apologetics Alliance
Christian Apologetics Research Ministry - CARM
Christian National Church
ComeReason Ministries
C.S. Lewis Society
Daniel B Wallace
God and Science
Got Questions.org
International Society of Women in Apologetics
Legacy of Truth
Michael Heiser
Josh McDowell
Ratio Christi
Reasonable Faith
Reasons to Believe
The Bible Project
Online Bible Resources
Biblia.com
The Blue Letter Interlinear Bible
The Study Light Interlinear Bible
Bible Hub Interlinear Bible
The Complete Jewish Bible
Logos
The Word Free Bible Software
You Version