For many Christians the term apologetics is entirely foreign to their language game. If for no other reason, many Christians fail to practice apologetics because they do not know what it is. This post will be the first in a series that attempts to answer a number of basic questions surrounding apologetics. Stay tuned!
What is apologetics?
To state it succinctly, Christian apologetics is a branch of theology that seeks to provide evidence in support of the truth claims of Christianity. Apologetics is the discipline of defending the essential truth and rationality of the Christian faith.
Two well known Christian apologists define apologetics in the following ways:
According to William Lane Craig: “It [apologetics] contains offensive and defensive elements, on the one hand presenting positive arguments for Christian truth claims and on the other refuting objections brought against Christianity’s truth claims.” – William Lane Craig
According Ergun Caner: “Apologetics use logic, reason and methods of argumentation and debate for the purpose of convincing a skeptic, or divergent position.” -Ergun Caner
Are there various apologetic methods?
There are various apologetic methods that each attempt to convince the skeptic of Christianity’s truth by using a variety approaches. Let us take a look at just a few…
First, there is Contextual Apologetics. This method basic utilizes everything at ones disposal for making a case for Christianity. This would entail using cultural references (i.e. TV shows, music….etc…) to convey a concept in a way that the hearer will understand. This method does not however affirm everything that a specific cultural referent affirms (such as specific moral values). This method is highly effective in reaching media driven cultures such as America’s current under 40 populations. If you don’t use this, you will only reach a certain type of people, primarily those who avoid engaging in current cultural trends.
Second and very closely related to the first, there are Cultural Apologetics. This means approaching popular forms of discussion within a given culture for the purposes of presenting the Gospel. The Christian addresses and provokes by using a modern examples all understand. This form most often finds itself entering into the political arena.
Third, there is Positive Apologetics. This means that one compiles the evidence for Christianity and allows it to stand for itself. In other words, the Christian and his opponent make their best pitch for their position and allow the listener to decide what best explains the evidence. This method is most often seen in debates regarding the coherency of one’s worldview.
Fourth, there is Negative Apologetics. While not entirely ignoring the positive evidence for Christianity, the focus is upon attacking the inconsistency of all other systems. This apologist improves the appearance of viability for his position by demolishing his opponent’s argument. This method is only effective when combined to some degree with positive apologetics.
Are there objections to apologetics?
Yes, there are a number of objections, all of which are easily answered.
Objection 1: Why not just preach Jesus and let the Holy Spirit do the rest?
Answer: If just preaching Jesus is all it takes then why object to apologetics? Shouldn’t the objector just preach Jesus to the apologist and allow the Holy Spirit to convict? Is this what Paul did at Mars Hill? No!
Objection 2: Apologetics relies upon human reason instead of faith!
Answer: How did you come to that conclusion, by faith or by reason? One cannot object to apologetics without appealing to some form of reason which negates their objection.
Objection 3: Apologetics focuses upon reason and evidence instead of the pure truth of the Gospel!
Answer: Wait, are you attempting to provide me with evidence as to why I should not use evidence? That is self-defeating! Further, if it is all about faith then how do we begin to confront Mormonism which relies entirely upon a feeling of “faith” to confirm the viability of the Mormon “gospel?”
Is there a Biblical basis for apologetics?
There sure is! Let’s take a look at a few passages that support the use of apologetics.
I Peter 3:15 – “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…” The Greek word used here is apologia. This term is often found in secular Greek being used to describe a case being presented in court.
Jude 3 – “Beloved, while I was making every effort to write to you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith which was once and for all handed down to the saints.” The term “contend” means to struggle for the faith. We are to struggle and fight to maintain the purity of the gospel which was given one time.
Phil 1:7, 14 – “…I have you in my heart, since both in my imprisonment and in the defense and the confirmation of the gospel…I am appointed for the defense of the gospel…”
Titus 1:9 – “holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict.” We are to refute those who contradict sound doctrine. This encompasses both apologetics and polemics.
Paul routinely practiced apologetics…
“And he went into the synagogue and spoke boldly for three months, reasoning and persuading concerning the things of the kingdom of God” (Acts 19:8, NKJV)
Is there a theological basis for apologetics?
Apologetics is entirely consistent with sound theology.
First, Christians believe that God is a God of reason. Therefore, using reason is consistent with the nature of God. Further, according to Romans 1 the natural order reveals the “reason” of God.
Second, we are created in God’s image. If we reflect God’s image we must be capable of reasoning. Our fallen nature does not remove this ability but rather should cause us to submit our minds to the Word of God.
Third, God is truth. Because God is truth, He reveals truth. He reveals this truth in His Son, Jesus Christ (John 14:6). As Christians we should reflect the nature of God by revealing and defending truth.
Are there any things I should keep in mind as I practice apologetics?
Yes, there are a number of things to keep in mind when practicing apologetics.
First, those to whom you are presenting an apologetic are real people that God loves and who need a savior.
Second, the goal is to win souls not arguments. Some keeps to remaining true to this principle are to remain humble and to be conversational.
Third, everyone has their own presuppositions and worldview. Do not assume you both have the same definition for any given term. Get to know their worldview!
Are there any practical benefits to studying and practicing apologetics?
Yes, there are many. Allow me to share just a few…
First, when one practices apologetics, one strengthens their own faith. It causes one to know God more deeply. When one knows God more and more one develops a deeper appreciation for their relationship with God. The more you know God you will become a more worshipful and committed Christian
Second, apologetics also benefit the local church body. Apologetic preaching is typified by conviction and passion. A church that is led by a man of conviction and passion tends to grow spiritually and numerically.
Third, Apologetics provide renewed confidence in evangelistic efforts. The more prepared one is to answer the question and objections of unbelievers, the more likely one is to share their faith.
Craig.
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