Christian Ministry Training Blog

Training Category: Outreach Ministry

We are to “always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Pet. 3:15) which certainly refers to “what” we say. The Greek word itself for “to give an answer”, apologia, means a verbal defense. However, we need to go on to the next word in the verse “but” — “But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience …”

Biblical Apologetics Isn’t Just What We Say But How We Say It

God’s Word exhorts us to not only defend our faith but to maintain integrity while doing so. 2 Timothy 2:24 parallels the stance Christians should take with others — “And the Lord’s servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Those who oppose him he must gently instruct …”

Biblical Apologetics involves some do’s and don’ts:

DO:

• Do be gentle in your approach no matter how they treat you.
• Do treat the person with respect regardless of their views.
• Do demonstrate kindness even if they aren’t.

DON’T:

• Don’t quarrel or let a debate escalate to the point of a power struggle.
• Don’t get resentful if people won’t budge or if they attack you rather than the issues.

We need to know when to bail out. 2 Timothy 2:23 says “Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments because you know they produce quarrels.” If a person genuinely wants an answer, you should be able to get beyond the smoke screens and deal with the real issues in a civil manner.

Learn more about apologetics in the Outreach Ministry Manual which includes an outline of this classic passage, 1 Peter 3:15-18, on defending our faith.

Training Category: Outreach Ministry

Apologetics comes from the Greek word “apologia” found in 1 Peter 3:15-16 meaning to give a verbal defense.

These verses also tell us to whom we give that defense — to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. This suggests a readiness factor.

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, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.

The Importance of the Readiness Factor to Apologetics

Not everyone is ready for apologetics. Too often people are turned off to Christianity because of zealous defenders of the faith. Notice that 1 Peter 3:15 says we give a defense when asked.

• We aren’t to go looking for a debate.
• We aren’t to be manipulative in getting people to listen to us.

“Apologia” comes by invitation.

Also note that 1 Peter 3:15 exhorts us to share with “everyone” who asks, not just those with whom we are comfortable.

Apologetics Requires Discernment

We need to be discerning when it comes to witnessing and defending the faith. What does the person need most at this particular point in time?

• to observe authentic Christians?
• to hear the simple Gospel message?
• to experience a tangible expression of the love of Christ?
• or to engage in a discussion of why Christ is the way, of why the Bible is the inerrant Word of God, of why it makes sense to believe there is a God, etc.?

The Outreach Ministry Manual includes an outline breaking down 1 Peter 3:15-18 to help learn how to engage in apologetics as well as some additional Scripture and questions personalizing this verse to how you defend your faith.

Need help defending specific issues or worldviews? Go to: Apologetics Resources