8 Myths About Apologetics
There is such a wide range of attitudes toward apologetics. Part of this is because of some misconceptions about apologetics. I will try to clear up some of these here.
1. Apologetics is about arguing. In a way, apologetics is about arguing in the sense of presenting an argument. But apologetics is not about arguing in the popular sense of getting angry. It is to be done in a positive and gentle manner.
2. Apologetics is a purely academic exercise. Many think of apologetics as being about professors with multiple Ph.Ds debating each other. While there is a major intellectual component to apologetics, it can be done in other ways as well. Demonstrating love and fighting for justice can also be ways to be apologetic.
3. Apologetics is only a means of evangelism. Apologetics is very useful for clearing away objections to Christianity for non-believers. But apologetics is just as much for believers. It is a means of discipleship that helps believers grow stronger in their faith.
4. Apologetics only concerns philosophy. While many apologists study philosophy, it is not the only discipline. Biblical studies, history, science and numerous other fields are just as important.
5. Apologetics is only for professionals. According to 1 Peter 3:15, every Christian is to be ready to give a reason for the hope they have. Apologetics is about explaining why you value something (not just Christianity). You are already an apologist in other areas of your life. Christian apologetics is simply doing the same thing with your faith.
6. You need to go to school to be an apologist. I strongly encourage Christians to go to Bible college, seminary or graduate school for training. But you do not have to. Although I have three masters degrees and am working on a doctorate, I was doing apologetics when I was young in my faith and not even considering Christian education.
7. Apologetics will ruin your faith. People seem to think that thinking through the Christian faith will destroy the passion they have for Christ. That is like saying getting to know your spouse will diminish your love for them. It is nonsense. I will say that it is important to pray and read the Bible devotionally instead of only doing apologetics.
8. There is no place for apologetics in the church. Christians seem to tolerate apologetics by lone ranger Christians but would prefer it stay out of the church. It is actually the church where apologetics needs to be. The average Christian has no clue on how to defend their faith. I believe that we need to tone down the atheist debates and crank up the discipleship training in our churches.
