Lexical Summary apologia: Defense, Answer, Apology Original Word: ἀπολογία Strong's Exhaustive Concordance answer for oneself, clearing of self, defense. From the same as apologeomai; a plea ("apology") -- answer (for self), clearing of self, defence. see GREEK apologeomai HELPS Word-studies 627 apología (from 575 /apó, "from" and 3056 /lógos, "intelligent reasoning") – properly, a well-reasoned reply; a thought-out response to adequately address the issue(s) that is raised. 627 /apología ("reasoned defense") is the term for making a legal defense in an ancient court. Today 627 /apología ("biblical apologetics") is used for supplying evidences for the Christian faith. [An "apology" in classical times had nothing to do with saying, "I'm sorry," but rather was a reasoned argument (defense) that presented evidence (supplied compelling proof).] NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom apologeomai Definition a speech in defense NASB Translation defense (7), vindication (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 627: ἀπολογίαἀπολογία, ἀπολογίας, ἡ (see ἀπολογέομαι), verbal defense, speech in defense: Acts 25:16; 2 Corinthians 7:11; Philippians 1:7, 17 (16); 2 Timothy 4:16; with a dative of the person who is to hear the defense, to whom one labors to excuse or to make good his cause: 1 Corinthians 9:3; 1 Peter 3:15; in the same sense, ἡ ἀπολογία ἡ πρός τινα, Acts 22:1 (Xenophon, mem. 4, 8, 5). Topical Lexicon Overview of the ConceptThe term translated “defense” or “answer” in English versions denotes a carefully reasoned reply to criticism or accusation. It appears eight times in the Greek New Testament and ranges from formal courtroom language to everyday Christian witness. In every setting it underscores the believer’s responsibility to speak truthfully, coherently, and honorably for the sake of the gospel. Legal and Forensic Contexts 1. Paul before Jewish and Roman authorities 2. Final vindication in 2 Timothy 4:16 Facing imminent execution, Paul reflects: “At my first defense, no one stood with me….” Though abandoned by men, he states in the next verse that “the Lord stood by me and strengthened me.” The episode illustrates that a believer’s ultimate Advocate is Christ Himself (see also Romans 8:33-34). Pastoral and Ecclesial Concerns 1. Answering criticism of ministry practice 2. Partnership in gospel defense Foundation for Christian Apologetics 1 Peter 3:15 provides the enduring charter: “Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope you possess, but respond with gentleness and respect.” Three emphases emerge: This single verse became seminal for later apologetic work, from the early apologists (Justin Martyr, Athenagoras) through contemporary evangelism. Theological Significance 1. Truth demands articulation. The gospel is proclaimed, not merely felt. Accurate, reasoned speech is integral to faithfulness. Practical Ministry Application • Local churches should equip members in doctrine so that each can explain the hope within them. Conclusion Across its eight occurrences, the word translated “defense” encapsulates the Christian mandate to answer accusations, clarify misunderstandings, and commend the gospel. Whether in a hostile courtroom or a neighbor’s living room, believers are called to speak with clarity, courage, and Christ-like grace. Forms and Transliterations απολογια απολογία ἀπολογία ἀπολογίᾳ απολογιαν απολογίαν ἀπολογίαν απολογιας απολογίας ἀπολογίας απόλοιπα απόλοιπον απολοίπου απολοίπων apologia apología apologíāi apologian apologían apologias apologíasLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Acts 22:1 N-GFSGRK: ὑμᾶς νυνὶ ἀπολογίας NAS: hear my defense which I now KJV: my defence [which I make] now INT: you now defense Acts 25:16 N-GFS 1 Corinthians 9:3 N-NFS 2 Corinthians 7:11 N-AFS Philippians 1:7 N-DFS Philippians 1:16 N-AFS 2 Timothy 4:16 N-DFS 1 Peter 3:15 N-AFS Strong's Greek 627 |
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