What are Theology and Christian Apologetics?

In the subtitle of this website you may have noticed three particular words, theology and Christian apologetics, each of which appear in an attempt to justify the existence of this blog. Starting off with a definition of these terms just seems to make sense.

Theology:

While the term theology may seem academic to some, it is really quite simple at its core. Its roots come from the Greek Θεός (theos), meaning “God,” and λόγος (logos), meaning “word,” “study of,” or “reason.” Christian theology begins with the foundational principle that any accurate knowledge of God has its ultimate source in God Himself. God has provided human beings with revelation concerning Himself in four primary ways: In creation, in our conscience, in Christ, and in the canon of Scripture, with the fullest of these revelations being through the Word incarnate, His Son Jesus Christ. Theology is the reasoned study of God, i.e. our attempts to learn more about God and understand His interactions with humanity in a deeper way.

Christian Apologetics:

Paul defends the truth of the resurrection of Jesus Christ
before King Agrippa and Festus (Acts 26)

On the other hand, the term Christian apologetics tends to be more commonly misunderstood. At first glance, one might think this has to do with Christians apologizing for their beliefs. But a look at the original language from which the word apologetics is derived will help clarify its true meaning. The Greek word ἀπολογία (apologia) means “the act of making a defense” or “a speech of defense.” Christian apologetics is the giving of a reasoned defense for the truth of the Christian worldview. This involves both the answering of objections to Christianity as well as making a proactive case for the reality and relevance of the Christian faith. However, there is more to Christian apologetics than simply presenting a sound logical argument. In his first epistle, Peter emphasizes both the importance of how one communicates a defense and what the underlying motivation for that defense should be. “ . . . but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense (ἀπολογία - apologia) to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect . . .” (1 Peter 3:15) The bedrock foundation of all Christian apologetics is faith in Jesus Christ as Lord, God the Son come in human flesh. And we honor our Lord when we prepare ourselves to answer questions about why our ultimate hope is in Christ. Doing our homework also has the added benefit of deepening our own faith as we come to a more thorough understanding of why we believe what we believe. It is likewise worth noting that Peter expands on his call to defend the faith with an exhortation to do so “with gentleness and respect.” The aim of apologetics is not to crush an opponent under the weight of our argument, but rather to clear up misconceptions in a gracious and considerate manner. Instead of seeking to embarrass and antagonize someone outside the Christian faith, our goal should be to defend and proclaim the Gospel in such a way that the mind and heart of the questioner is exposed to the truth and beauty of Jesus Christ.