Biblical Apologetics
Methods, Definitions, and The Basic
Since its birth until today, Christianity has been in the context of “pluralism” that
the beliefs are very diverse (Carson 270-272) . These conditions are of course become serious
challenge to the claims of truth and the existence of Christianity. However, these challenges
have led to a response from believers who gave birth to Christian apologetics.
The word " apologetics" is derived from the ancient Greek word apologia which generally
means “defense ". The verb form is Apologoumai which means “doing a defense ".
(Sproul, Gerstner dan Lindsley 20).
So, Christian apologetics is primarily a defense of the doctrine and practice of the
Christian life of the person who do not believe. As a defense of the Christian faith effort,
apologetics is closely related to the problem methods he uses. As in a war, strategy is an
important requirement to win the battle, as well as in apologetics, the method is a vital
element in the effort to win souls for Christ. This statement does not mean that the effort of
believers through apologetics is a decisive factor in the success of evangelism.
The Bible clearly states that only the Holy Spirit regenerates the unbeliever and makes it
accepts Christ. (Hoekema 48)
However, as Christians who become co-workers of God, we are called to participate
in getting the best apologetics method we can do in certain situations. We must remember
that the Holy Spirit does not work contrary to our efforts, but through our efforts.
Towards the end of the twentieth century, Steven B. Cowan may have made a recent
classification of the methods of apologetics. He divides apologetics existing methods with a
distinguishing cr...
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As our first year of apologetic class, we started out with the basic idea of apologetics. The root word of apologetic, apologia, means “ To speak in defense “ and it is often used in religious matters. The purpose of apologetic is to give a solid and valid defense against the questions that are thrown against the christian society. We give such defense by stating the facts that provide support to the christian statements and views. As a christian, we are supposed to be able to explain our faith as it is said in 1 Peter 3:15 “ But in your heart set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give answer to everyone who asks you to give reasons for the hope that you have. But do it with gentleness and respect.”. We defend our faith not only to have a solid base, but also in order to help those who are in search for truth.
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When one fully gives himself to God, but has not receive the Holy Spirit, he must just keep trusting God that His word is true and that He will do the work. Also one can expect temptation just like Jesus did. When the Holy Spirit comes, He does not leave quickly. When one seeks the Holy Spirit when He is already there, it grieves Him. One should be prayerfully watchful and seek to be an open channel instead of seeking for more power.3