What is Apologetics?

Apologetics is the defense of the Christian faith. The simplicity of this definition, however, masks the complexity of the problem of defining apologetics. It turns out that a diversity of approaches occur in defining the meaning, scope, and purpose of apologetics.

The history of apologetics.

The word “apologetics” derives from the Greek word apologia. The Greeks originally used it as a speech of defense. In ancient Athens it referred to a defense made in the courtroom as part of the normal judicial procedure. After the accusation, the defendant could refute the charges with a defense (apologia). The classic example of an apologia was Socrates’s defense against the charge of preaching strange gods. Plato famously retold this defense in The Apology.

Apologetics in the Bible.

The word apologia appears 17 times in noun or verb form in the NT. It can translate as “defense” or “vindication” in every case. The idea of offering a reasoned defense of the faith is evident in Php 1:7,16; and especially 1 Pt 3:15. However, no specific theory of apologetics is outlined in the NT.

Apologetics in the second century.

In the second century this general word for “defense” began taking on a narrower sense. It referred to a group of writers who defended the beliefs and practices of Christianity against various attacks. These men were known as “the apologists” because of the titles of some of their treatises. But apparently, apologetics did not become a theological term until 1794.

It has become customary to use the term apology to refer to a specific effort or work in defense of the faith. An apology might be a written document, a speech, or even a film. Apologists develop their defenses of the Christian faith in relation to scientific, historical, philosophical, ethical, religious, theological, or cultural issues.

We may distinguish four functions of apologetics, though not everyone agrees that apologetics involves all four. Such opinions notwithstanding, all four functions have historically been important in apologetics, and each has been championed by great Christian apologists throughout church history.

The first function may be called vindication or proof.

It involves marshaling philosophical arguments as well as scientific and historical evidences for the Christian faith. The goal of this function is to develop a positive case for Christianity as a belief system that should be accepted. Philosophically, this means drawing out the logical implications of the Christian worldview so that they can be clearly seen and contrasted with alternate worldviews.

The second function is defense.

This function is closest to the NT and early Christian use of the word apologia, defending Christianity against the plethora of attacks made against it in every generation by critics of varying belief systems. This function involves clarifying the Christian position in light of misunderstandings and misrepresentations; answering objections, criticisms, or questions from non-Christians; and in general clearing away any intellectual difficulties that nonbelievers claim stand in the way of their coming to faith.

The third function is refutation of opposing beliefs.

This function focuses on answering the arguments non-Christians give in support of their own beliefs. Most apologists agree that refutation cannot stand alone, since proving a non-Christian religion or philosophy to be false does not prove that Christianity is true. Nevertheless, it is an essential function of apologetics.

The fourth function is persuasion.

By this we do not mean merely convincing people that Christianity is true, but persuading them to apply its truth to their life. This function focuses on bringing non-Christians to the point of commitment. The apologist’s intent is not merely to win an intellectual argument, but to persuade people to commit their lives and eternal futures into the trust of the Son of God who died for them.

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Kenneth D. Boa wrote the article above.

You can read more about apologetics in the HCSB Apologetics Study Bible and the CSB Apologetics Study Bible. Take a look these titles in our store and start learning the skill of apologetics today!