Apologetics - The New Bad Word and Why We Need It
Earlier this year I was speaking at an Apologetics Conference and I asked the audience to raise their hands if they knew what apologetics was. Two hands went up. Two! And this was at an APOLOGETICS Conference! I put my presentation on pause and spent a few minutes explaining it. Is it an Apology? No. Is it an Argument? No. Is it an Answer? Yes. As much as I like a good argument (being a lawyer would you expect otherwise?), I admit this is not the best explanation. The word "apologetics" can be found in 1 Peter 3:15, "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect." "Where is "apologetics" in this verse," you ask. I'm glad you asked. The key is the Greek word for "answer" here, apologia , which means to give a defense, a reason, an answer. What kind of Answers are...
