While I was at church this past weekend, I ran into a friend who is a new member of our Apologetics Team.
Last I had chatted with him, he was working his way through Lee Strobel's latest book, The Case for the Real Jesus.
During our discussion, I asked him if he was still reading the book and he replied, "I kind of got side-tracked. I have a hard time staying on one topic; there is so much to learn."
Later, as I reflected on the conversation, I greatly sympathized with him. As a follower of Christ, it is very easy to get overwhelmed with the amount of information made available in the field of Christian Apologetics. I suspect that this may sometimes be the reason that many Christians shy away from learning to defend their faith. It is not an easy task and does require study and labor. So, why bother? Where can one even get started?
In today's feature article, apologist Charlie Campbell of the Always be Ready Apologetic Ministry, shares:
- that apologetics is a command for every Christian.
- that apologetics can be found in the Bible.
- some practical ways that Christians interested in getting started in apologetics can begin to engage the culture around them.
The PDF can be found here.
Courage and Godspeed,
Chad A. Gross
Comments
"but we should remind ourselves that we don’t have to learn it all at once. We should just approach each subject as it becomes necessary to do so...let the Holy Spirit guide us and be our Teacher as we endeavor to give a defense for the Christian Faith."
I could not agree more brother! I am reminded of the words of Christ:
"I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing" (John 15:5; NKJV)
Godspeed and thank you for adding to Mr. Campbell's article!
For His Glory,
Jake
Well, I certainly appreciate the kind words and you are correct- it was the Lord who put the fire in my heart! I thank Him for it!
I just pray that we all continue to learn together and begin reaching more people with the gospel message!
Please feel free to write out some of the answers to the questions you are referring to; perhaps we could post them?
Godspeed
I am so grateful that you were encouraged by the article!
Keep "bombin!" :-)
Godspeed
That friend you were referring to must be very blessed to have you to encourage him! The thing I enjoyed the most about this article was the biblical references that call us to defend our faith. The scripture that stuck out the most to me was:
Colossians 4:5-6
“Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside [speaking of unbelievers], redeeming the time. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.”
I know there are times when I experience frustration when conversing with others about what I believe. These words have reminded me that I need to maintain a humble approach and trust in how God will use conversation instead of confrontation to speak truth.
Love You Brother!
Great to hear from you! I'm so glad that the verses in the article challenged you.
I believe a big misconception within the body of Christ is that apologetics is just something "some people need" or are "into;" however, as made clear by the article, Scripture commands us to defend our faith, study ourselves approved, and to give a reason for our hope. It's not an option, but a command!
And you are correct-we must be humble patient, and ready to search for answers!
Appreciate and love you to brother!
Godspeed