What is Apologetics?
- Benjamin Lamp
- Oct 8, 2020
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 2, 2024
Welcome to GT Apologetics. I would like to present a brief overview of the reasons for our belief in apologetics based on the Bible, as well as address some common questions about apologetics.
What is Apologetics?
Apologetics involves defending one's faith. The term originates from the Greek word Apologia, as used by Peter in his Epistle 1 Peter 3:15, where he urges believers to "always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect." Peter emphasizes that as Christians, we possess the truth of hope, which may be challenged by the world. Therefore, it is crucial to engage with the world to ensure that the Gospel remains unaltered and our faith is accurately represented.
Who should participate in Apologetics?
There are two primary scriptures used to support Apologetics. One is 1 Peter 3:15 which we discussed earlier, the other is Jude 1:3 “Beloved, while I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all handed down to the saints.” To determine who should be involved in apologetics, we need to consider the recipients of Peter and Jude’s letters. In both cases, it is a church, a community of believers. It is not limited to super Christians or those with advanced degrees, but it is for everyday Christians, for you and me.
Is Apologetics an act of love?
It all comes down to the approach. Simply defending your faith is not inherently unloving. What I mean is, God is our heavenly Father, and if someone is misrepresenting who He is and what He has done, the loving thing to do would be to correct them. The most loving action you can take for someone is to share the truth; remaining silent when you know the truth, allowing someone to continue in sin and be condemned, that is what is unloving.
Is Apologetics a priority?
To address this, I refer back to Jude 1:3 but emphasize a different aspect. “Beloved, while I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all handed down to the saints.” Jude intended to write about salvation, about their shared faith, yet he was compelled by the Holy Spirit to address apologetics instead. Friends, apologetics is the propagation of the Gospel, it is crucial.
My wife and I are dedicated to defending our faith and instructing children, parents, and ordinary Christians like you and me to do the same.
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