Contrary to what many think, apologetics doesn't have anything to do with apologies or apologizing. It comes from the Greek word, apologia, which means "in defense of." In apologetics, we don't say, "I'm sorry for what I believe," rather we may say, "this is why I believe what I believe..."
This brings up a question, do you know why you believe what you believe? A popular verse about this topic is found in 1 Peter 3:15:
"...but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence..."
Pondering that passage, may I ask you a few questions:
- Is Jesus Lord in your heart? If He's not Lord, what's keeping you from making Jesus your Lord. I'd be happy to talk to you about it- just le me know-or contact to your pastor about your relationship to Christ.
- If He is Lord, then do you have an answer for those who want to know why? If you don't have an answer or aren't sure how to respond to the skeptic or atheist when questioned about your faith, you should consider studying and growing in your understanding. Maybe you could grab a book or meet with a mentor to learn more about defending your faith.
- If He is Lord, AND you have an answer for your faith, are you giving your responses with gentleness and reverence? For some of us we attack those to whom we are defending our faith or we come across as arrogant when we provide our answers. Let me challenge you to "speak truth in love."
Justin
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