noun plural but singular or plural in construction
1. systematic argumentative discourse in defense (as of a doctrine)
2. a branch of theology devoted to the defense of the divine origin and authority of Christianity
Christian apologetics is the discipline that deals with a rational defense of Christianity. The term, "apologetics" comes from the Greek word apologia, which means, "to give a reason or defense." For the Christian, apologetics may include effectively explaining why we believe that God is real, the Bible is true, or that Jesus is the Savior.
1 Peter 3:15 contains the admonition, ". . . be ready always to give an answer to every man that asks you a reason for the hope that is in you. . . ." The same wording is found in Philippians 1:7 and 1:17, where Paul said that he is "set for the defense of the Gospel." The principle is echoed in Jude 3, as believers are encouraged to "earnestly contend for the faith." Examples of using evidence and sound reasoning to minister to individuals (Luke 21:14; Acts 25:16, 26:23-24; I Corinthians 9:3).
Apologetics deals with support for (and defense of) the core beliefs of Christianity. Examples are such topics as defending the authority and trustworthiness of scripture; presenting evidence in defense of Jesus Christ, His resurrection, and the Christian faith in general; and exposing the flawed reasoning behind many of the popular arguments against Christianity.
