Introduction to Apologetics

Apologetics • Sermon • Submitted 2 years ago

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What is Apologetics?

“The branch of theological science which sets out to vindicate Christian theism against any form of non-theistic or non-Christian thought”

“Thus while apologetics defends Christianity from non-Christian philosophy, Christian evidences defends it from non-Christian science.”

Apologetics. The term apologetics derives from the Greek word apologia, which originally signified a speech in someone’s defense in a court of law. Christian apologetics constitutes the science and practice of arguing on behalf of historic Christianity’s truthfulness and/or the advisability of accepting it, rebutting objections to historic Christianity, and arguing against systems of belief that are incompatible with historic Christianity.

This article first summarizes the reasons for cultivating Christian apologetics, then reviews common objections to Christian apologetics, and, finally, surveys apologetic methodologies.

The art of explaining the faith in such a way as to make a reasoned defence against its detractors. Paul’s Areopagus sermon is a classic example of biblical apologetics, which can be of value to all who are called upon to defend the faith today.

In the simplest terms it means the ability to defend the theology found within the Scriptures.

What is difference between a cult and a religion?

Cult – “A system of religious worship, homage, or devotion. Theologically, it is used of those systems that profess to be Christian but that are antagonistic to the basic doctrines of Scripture, as for example, Mormonism, Russellism, etc.”

Cults – “more specific term associates itself with Christianity but denies the orthodox of Christianity – (Primarily referring to the person and work of Christ)”

Whereas the term religion is simply a broader term -

When we use the term Apologetics we are talking about defending the faith.

Why is Apologetics important?

Example of counterfeit money – They must be familiar with real money – how it looks, and how it feels

IT’S COMMANDED -

1 Corinthians 16:13 “Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.”

Philippians 4:1 “Therefore, my beloved brethren whom I long to see, my joy and crown, in this way stand firm in the Lord, my beloved.”

Ephesians 6:10 “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.”

Philippians 1:27 “Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;”

Paul’s prayer for the believers at the church on Cols sea - Colossians 1:10-11 “so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously”

1 Thess. 3:8 “for now we really live, if you stand firm in the Lord.”

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.”

2. BECAUSE OF DECEPTION

2 Corinthians 4:4 – “God of this world has blinded their eyes…”

2 Timothy 4:3-4 – “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching…”

3. BECAUSE OF THE SPIRITUAL BATTLE

Ephesians 6:10-12 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord…”

James 4:4 – “You adulterous people…”

Romans 6:15-20 – “For I do not understand my own actions…”

How should we approach Apologetics?

We live in a wicked and perverse generation

Philippians 2:14-15 – “Do all things without grumbling or questioning…”

They are deceived

2 Timothy 4:3-4 – “For the time is coming when they will not endure sound…”

We know the answer – The Cross

Do it with love and gentleness

Roman Catholicism

7th Day Adventist

Oneness Pentecostals

Judaism

Islam

Hinduism

Buddhism

Taoism

Bahai

Kabala

Mormonism

Jehovah Witnesses

Christian Science

Unity School of Christianity

Scientology

Crucial Reminders -

•1. Cults have a tendency to train their followers to think in very narrow categories.

•2. Cults will often give a reinterpretation to biblical terminology.

•3. Clear definition of biblical terms without wavering is important.

•4. Do not chase cult rabbit trails.

•5. Though there may be a place for polemics, one is usually better off maintaining a very humble and gentle manner.