Before I became a follower of Jesus, I had never heard of the term apologetics. When I first heard it, my initial thought was that it was a Christian apologizing for being a Christian! But of course it has nothing to do with apologizing: Christians have nothing to apologize for when following Jesus – the Master of the Universe.
What is Apologetics?
Essentially, apologetics is a defense of the Christian faith. It defends or responds to attacks and criticisms against God, the bible and other issues related to Christianity. The English word apologetics stems from the Greek word apologia (ἀπολογία), which literally means speaking in defense. In its Greek context, a defense was a legal defense which presented evidence to rebut and refute a charge made against a person. It was a well-thought out argument that provided reasons, evidence and examples.
Why is Apologetics Important?
Apologetics is a useful tool, especially in respectful communication (I find it works best face to face over coffee in a comfortable, neutral location), to not only present the compelling evidence for God and the bible, but also to help point out flaws in opposing ideas. In fact, Peter commands all believers to “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15). What Peter is saying here is that every believer should be ready and able to say why they are a Christian and how Jesus is working in their life. We are all commanded to play a part in defending, and perhaps thereby spreading, the faith.
I particularly like what Paul says in 2 Corinthians 10:5 (RSV), “We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ” That’s what apologetics has the power to do – ‘to destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God.’ But one must always remember that no matter how many facts or persuasive arguments are put forward, if the hearer’s heart is not open to hear the message, then they won’t listen, at least not straight away. We may unknowingly sow a seed in a person’s heart and others may water it, but it is always God who makes a person’s faith grow – as long as the person doesn’t harden their heart.
For a great short video on the biblical call for apologetics, check out this link by Dr. Igal German from the International Biblical Apologetics Association: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/TsCPq9cq_sI
How to do Apologetics?
No matter who we speak to about our faith, we must always speak the truth in love, and focus on building relationships, not trying to win a battle. I have found that the best approach is to have one on one conversations with truth seekers. The most effective way to have stimulating conversations about Jesus and the bible, is to ask three questions:
- What do you think about …? What is your understanding about …? What do you mean by that?
- Why do you believe that? How did you reach that conclusion?
- Have you considered …? What about the alternative …?
These three questions are what Greg Koukle popularized in his book “Tactics: A Gameplan for Discussing Your Christian Convictions.” These questions enable you to control and direct a conversation, all the while being respectful and non-threatening. Done well, these questions allow for meaningful and open communication, fostering respect. Remember: building relationships is more important than winning a battle. Think of sharing your faith with people as though you are gardening. You should carefully and deliberately guide the growing (conversation / relationship). The harvest will take care of itself. Also keep in mind that it is God who makes a person’s faith grow. You are not responsible for ‘winning someone to Christ’.
Ultimately, we must know when to be there for someone and not preach to them. As Jesus said, we must be “wise as serpents and harmless as doves” (Matthew 10:16). We should always be ready to share the gospel, but we must think carefully when and how to engage with non-believers.
My prayer is that all Christians engage with others lovingly and respectfully and focus on building relationships not winning an argument.
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