What is Apologetics?

Apologists and apologetics are often heard as big words that inspire images of older men in tweed jackets, sitting by fireplaces, smoking pipes. Are you picturing C.S. Lewis yet? But the truth is that everyone is an apologist and has an apologetic for something. That includes you, whether you realize it or not. 

An apologist is someone who gives a defense, otherwise known as an apologetic. The word apologetics comes from the Greek word apologia, which means “defense.” We find it used multiple times throughout the New Testament by Apostles like Paul and Peter.

Christian apologetics is the defense of the Christian faith and biblical worldview. If you’re a Christian who believes in the evidence for Christianity, you’re on your way to being a Christian apologist. The Apostle Peter tells us in his first epistle that as believers, we must be ready when we’re asked to give a reason, a defense, for the hope that is in us. (See 1 Peter 3:15-16). That hope is eternal life in Jesus Christ—not through any work or merit of our own, but through Christ’s death and resurrection to pay our sin debt. Yes, it’s serious stuff… but once you become well versed in the evidence for your faith, you’ll be prepared and ready to share it with others when they ask. 

A few common questions about apologetics…

Q: Does it have anything to do with apologizing for Christianity?
A: No. It’s about defending Christianity with evidence grounded in reality, based on truth.

Q: Do you have to be a pastor, priest, or professor to be an apologist? 
A: No. All Christians can (and should) take apologetics seriously and you don’t have to hold any title other than “Christian” to be one. 

Q: I’m not confrontational. Isn’t apologetics argumentative? 
A: It can be, but it doesn’t have to be. In most situations, being a good Christian apologist isn’t about being a good arguer, it’s about being a good communicator. Good communicators listen well, ask thoughtful questions, show respect to the people they’re engaging with, have empathy for others even if they disagree, and are prepared to share the evidence for their beliefs in an accessible, appropriate, and effective way.