Apologetics is the branch of theology that is concerned with the defense or proof of Christianity. “But sanctify the Lord in your hearts, and be ready to give an answer to every man that asketh you the reason of the hope that is in thee, with meekness…” (I Pet.3: 15)
The word “defense” comes from the Greek word apologia and indicates “a defense of conduct and procedure.” It also refers to “ … a verbal defense, a speech in defense of what one has done or of truth which one believes.”
“Apologia” translated by the English word “defense” is used eight times in the New Testament
(including I Pet.3: 15 above) (Acts 22:1, Acts 25:16, I Cor. 9:3, II Cor.7: 11, Phil.1: 7, Phil.1:16, II Tim.4:16)
A BLIND LEAP?
Many times Christians have been accused as having “blind faith”. We only believe but it makes no sense.
On the contrary Christianity is not taking a blind “leap into the dark‟. It is a step into the light! It can
be defended with sound, logical reasoning and with clear backing evidence for its claims.
The best defense for Christianity is a clear, simple presentation of the claims of Christ and who He
is. We must preach the gospel in the power of the Holy Spirit and believe Him to “convict the world of sin, of righteousness and of judgment”, but we must also be ready to give an answer to every man the reason for the hope that is in us. Pinnock, an able apologist and witness for Christ, appropriately concludes: “An intelligent Christian ought to be able to point up the flaws in a non-Christian position and to present facts and arguments which tell in favor of the gospel.”
Faith in Christianity,Paul Little justifiably writes, is based on evidence. It is reasonable faith.
Faith in the Christian sense goes beyond reason but not against it.
Taken from:
School of Apologetics Book by Dag Heward-Mills