Dictionary of Bible Themes  »  7000 God's people  »  7700 Leadership and the people of God  »  7703 apologetics

The art of explaining the faith in such a way as to make a reasoned defence against its detractors. Paul's Areopagus sermon is a classic example of biblical apologetics, which can be of value to all who are called upon to defend the faith today.

Paul's Areopagus sermon, a classic example of biblical apologetics

Paul speaks to his listeners on their own ground, starting on their own terms

Acts 17:22-23

Paul presents the Christian position

Acts 17:24-27

Paul supports his argument in a culturally appropriate way

Acts 17:28 Paul quotes from two secular writers, first from the Cretan poet Epimenides, and secondly from the Cilician poet Aratus.

Paul concludes his argument and calls for a response

Acts 17:29-31

Apologetics as a regular feature of Paul's ministry

Acts 18:4 See also Acts 9:26-30; Acts 18:19; Acts 19:8-10; Acts 28:17-31

Apologetics is part of the work of church leaders

Titus 1:9

All Christians share responsibility for the task of apologetics

1 Peter 3:15

Other examples of Christians engaging in apologetics

Acts 18:28 See also Acts 2:14-41; Acts 6:8-10

Apologetics alone is an inadequate way of presenting the gospel

1 Corinthians 1:17-25 See also 1 Corinthians 2:1-5

See also

2420  gospel
5038  mind, the human
5050  reason
5107  Paul
5293  defence, human
5622  witnesses
7724  evangelists
7751  persuasion
7756  preaching, content
7760  preachers, responsibilities
8424  evangelism
8495  witnessing