Apology or Apologia

“…always being prepared to give a defense (apologia) to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect” 1 Peter 3:15

Recently a number of people from Wintersburg returned from a 10-day trip to Japan. They were all part of Dr. Pat Zukeran’s Japan Martyrs tour which he leads each year. Dr. Pat Zukeran, the Founder and President of Evidence and Answers, and his wife is Dr. Satomi Zukeran a medical doctor at Kuakini Hospital in Honolulu.

Pat is an apologist whom I have known for over 25 years. What is an apologist? Apologetics comes from the Greek word apologia which is taken directly out of 1 Peter 3:15. In Greek, it means a defense, as in a court of law. Christian apologetics involves making a case (or defense) for the truth of the Christian faith. This isn’t just the job of pastors and speakers but we are all called to defend our faith.

Understanding apologetics is important because it helps us to know why we believe. How do you know the resurrection is true? Why do the innocent suffer? Is Jesus the only way to heaven? These are just a few of the questions that apologetics helps answer. In other words, apologetics can help strengthen us as believers. And as Christians, we need never “apologize” for our faith in Jesus.

Apologetics is also important because it can help us witness to unbelievers. Non-Christians often have many questions. As we are able to defend our faith and answer the question of unbelievers we can help them come to a saving knowledge of Christ.

Thought for Today: How equipped are you to defend your faith? Take a look at the Evidence and Answers website to see if there are any subjects that are of interest to you. Pat has been a frequent speaker at Wintersburg as well as JEMS Mount Hermon. Pat will speak at our High School and College Equipping conference at Wintersburg on June 22nd and will be our Guest Speaker on Sunday, June 23rd so be sure to mark your calendar.

Today’s Prayer Focus: Pray that God will help you to be equipped and able to give a defense (apologia) for the hope you have in Jesus. Deo Volente.