Who Is An Apologist?
Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin ArticlesA querist asks, “Who is an apologist?”
The Online Etymology Dictionary, defines the word, apology as being derived from the Greek word, apologia which means, “a speaking in defence” [defense]. This Greek term does not imply admission of guilt or regret, but a desire to make clear the grounds for some course, belief, or position, i.e., “his speech was an apologia for his foreign policy.”
The apostle Paul used the above Greek word in Philippians 1:7 KJV and Philippians 1:17 KJV, as well as in 1 Corinthians 9:3 ASV; 2 Corinthians 7:11 ASV [note “clearing”] and 2 Timothy 4:16 ASV) when he made clear his “defence” of the gospel.
Thus the inspired apostle Paul was indeed an “apologist” in “defence” of the gospel of Christ, therefore, apologists are necessary and the study of “apologetics” (“a branch of theology devoted to the defense of the divine origin and authority of Christianity”) is necessary as well.
Using Paul as our example (1 Corinthians 11:1; Philippians 3:17), we as Christians, should always be prepared to make a defense, or answer[apologia], to anyone who asks us for a reason for the hope that is in us (1 Peter 3:15 ASV).
Thus, if we as Christians are faithful to the Word and knowledgeable of the Word, we are apologists.
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