Those who encourage apologetics almost always cite First Peter 3:15, “… always be ready to give a defense{ἀπολογίαν} to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you….” The Greek word, apologia {ἀπολογία}, simply means to give a defense against objections. In context, there is nothing to suggest anything other than a defense by means of Scriptural evidence. Nevertheless, modern day apologetics are exclusively devoted to the scientific vindication of the truth and absoluteness of the Christian religion against unbelief by means of natural knowledge and human reason. Both pre-Reformation theologians and Lutheran theologians have debated whether there is a proper use for apologetics, and if there is, what the proper use is.
Handout 1: Apologetics-Definition-a.pdf
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