apologetics
The theological discipline concerned with explaining and defending the truthfulness of the Christian faith.
- From scripture:
…but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being 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, 16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. (1 Peter 3:15-16 ESV)
- From Always Ready by Greg Bahnsen:
All believers are commanded to engage in [apologetics]. Addressing himself to all members of the congregation, Peter penned the following command: “sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always be ready to give an answer to anyone who asks from you a reason for the hope that is within you, yet with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). It is God Himself, speaking through Peter’s inspired words, who calls upon us as believers—each and every one of us—to be prepared to defend the faith in the face of challenges and questions which come from unbelievers—any one of them.
Learn more:
- Theopedia: Apologetics
- John Frame: Apologetics
- John Lennox: What Is Apologetics? (video)
- Update: Jamin Hubner: Definitions of Apologetics
- Bob Passintino: The Golden Rule Apologetic
- Greg Bahnsen: Tools of Apologetics
Related terms:
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