My dearest brothers/sisters in Christ and all those still seeking the truth,
Some of you have questioned..wat is apologetics?
Google once again provide us the answers:
The term apologetics comes from the Greek apologia, which means “defense” or “answer.” Apologetics is the task of defending a particular idea or belief system and answering its critics. The origin of the concept of apologetics lies in the beginnings of Christianity. …
I believe that Apologetics is a very important part of the CHristian Life and an essential component of the church that is OFTEN overlooked.
God says to those “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart”. Jesus allows us to go and seek the TRUTH, He knows that as earthlings/humans, we are prone to doubt. JESUS actually ENCOURAGE Christians to TEST His claims. He wants us to believe and love with not just all of our heart, I believe He wants all of our minds as well.
Question the things that you have been taught. It is healthy. Yes, some things you can accept by faith alone and I respect that. However, Id rather you guys go out and find solid support or evidence which support your beliefs so that your faith is not built on sand, let it be build on a rock so that when the storms come, it does not shake.
Jesus also says to provide a ready answer/defence to non-believers. How can you justify your experience to those who have not experienced God? You must arouse an interest in Him or give them sufficient information/justifications to question the things our education system teaches us about creation and God.
To test your knowledge about what you believe…Pretend I am a non-believing skeptic..answer for me
1) Why is there suffering?
2) Do you support the views of evolution and that the earth/universe is billions of years old? Do you believe in literal 7 day creation?
3) How many people witnessed the ressurection of Christ? Is there sufficient proof historically that Jesus did die on the cross and was seen risen after His death?
4) How reliable are the NT and the OT in the bible?
5) How does a merciful God allow the killings of “children” by Elijah and many other people in the Old Testament (ie Egyptians)? Is it not a sin?
How would you react…if someone who does not believe in God asks you those questions? If you cannot answer any of those questions with absolute certainty, I believe you should do more work to find out and research. However, do not feel that I am pushing this upon you, I am merely trying to help as I feel very strongly about this area. I might not even answer all of these questions…
If you need more resources on this area, please ask me I can give you DVDs, books, CDs, mp3s. anything that you would like..to increase your knowledge and let you see both sides of the debate. I am sure Joseph will as well. We can provide you with access to Professors and organise events where they come and speak to us on this area. (courtesy of Creation Ministries International).
Forever grateful you have taken the time to read this,
Love in Christ,
shaun
