Ambitious Faith

Apologetics should always have it’s place in a Christian’s life

What is apologetics?

Apologetics is defined as “reasoned arguments or writings in justification of something, typically a theory or religious doctrine.”

Who can do apologetics?

While their are certainly some people that have a unique God-given aptitude of logic and reasoning, anyone and everyone can learn how to cohesively present logical and consistent arguments to support Christianity.

Why is apologetics so important?

Aside from the fact that logically and coherently being able to defend your faith more often than not increases your confidence in your faith, it also allows you to hold your own in arguments, debates, and discussions against non-believers ands their grievances against Christianity.

Sometimes, in life we are faced with intellectual problems, both morally - ie. How can a good God allow suffering - or practically - how can a loving God be against the love and lifestyle that homosexuals have for each other?

In order for a Christian to not represent Christianity in an illogical fashion, he/she must be ready to defend it to anyone.

English Standard Version Chapter 3

Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled

English Standard Version Chapter 3

but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect

English Standard Version Chapter 3

so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.

Examples of apologetics in Acts:

Examples of apologetics in Acts:

Stephen is seized ()

Apollos speaks boldly ()

Saul in Jerusalem ()

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English Standard Version Chapter 3

but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect

*Allude to video of African American taking on Mormons, when he clearly knew the Bible more than they did.

HOWEVER, pure logic, while important, won’t change the fact that some people are (and will always be) closed off to the gospel and salvation.

Some people will not accept the Gospel by any human action or speech

*Allude to Facebook conversation between me and Alexis*

*Connect example to Isaiah prophecy*

Some people can have all the logic and knowledge in the world, and still deny God.

Acts: An Introduction and Commentary j. Paul and the Jews in Rome (28:17–31)

Once a person deliberately refuses the Word, there comes a point when he is deprived of the capacity to receive it.

That being said, it is not our job to deem who will benefit from hearing the Gospel because the reality is that every non-believer needs to hear it. It is up to God to reveal whom he chooses.

However, we cannot begin to foster connections and conversions with non-believers without having a life that reflects God. Otherwise, no one will be open to even listening about the Gospel.

We should constantly live a life that reflect’s Jesus, ie. ambitious faith

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Acts: An Introduction and Commentary j. Paul and the Jews in Rome (28:17–31)

Once a person deliberately refuses the Word, there comes a point when he is deprived of the capacity to receive it.

English Standard Version Chapter 3

Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called,

Even if we are highly trained and highly educated philosophers, teachers, lawyers, debators, or pastors, our words will fall on deaf ears if we ignorantly ignore the questions and life struggles of non-believers.