Introductions

I think it's important that Christians not only believe the truth of God's word, but also know why they can be sure it is the truth--and share that with others. I've taught several Bible studies over the years--at work, in church, prisons, and in a retirement community. It was there that I began teaching verse by verse through books of the Bible, and did so with a dear friend for over 8 years. We ended our time there with a study of apologetics, as that was the direction I felt the Lord leading me to study.  God confirmed that call again in the fall, when our Sunday School lessons focused on apologetics, and again just recently, when my pastor began a series on the reliability of the Bible (sermons are available on the church website—link on right). 

Apologetics is a word derived from the Greek word apologia, which means to give a reasoned defense (1 Peter 3:15—“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”  NIV).  Apologetics seeks to provide rational grounds for believing the truth claims of Christianity in whole or in part and to respond to objections raised against the true knowledge of God in whole or in part in the Christian faith (2 Corinthians 10:3-5).  Apologists develop their defenses of the faith in relation to scientific, historical, philosophical, ethical, religious, theological, or cultural issues.

There have been hundreds of apologists through history.  I have to admit that my favorites are C.S. Lewis, Lee Strobel, and Josh McDowell.  These men sought to disprove the existence of God, and ended up finding His truth.  Some of the references I’ve used include Josh’s “The New Evidence That Demands A Verdict” and “Beyond Belief to Convictions” (he references many others in these books), as well as “The Apologetics Study Bible”—an excellent resource with articles from many noted apologists.

I’m looking forward to our journey together into the truth.  If you are a Christ follower, my prayer is that you find encouragement.  If you are not a believer, my prayer is that you find truth, and the hope that is Christ.    This is my passion and my purpose!