by Douglas Groothuis. Each week's post will provide a brief summary of the chapter, an audio introduction to the chapter by the author, as well as a PDF study guide suitable for printing and using for personal or group study. The audio is also available in a podcast feed for easier weekly listening. Here's everything you need this week:[Audio Intro] - Dr. Groothuis introduces this chapter.
[Chapter 2 Study Questions] - PDF study guide.
[Podcast Feed RSS | Podcast in iTunes] - Click to subscribe to the audio.
Summary
Chapter Two: The Biblical Basis for Apologetics (pages 23-44)
This chapter outlines the scriptural basis for apologetics. The author defines apologetics, shows its relationship with philosophy and theology, and its connection to evangelism. From this foundation, Groothuis explores scriptural references and examples of apologetics being used. These examples include Jesus and Paul, among others.
This chapter also stresses the importance of the character of the Christian apologist, emphasizing prayer, humility, and courage. Finally, the context of Christian dialogue is examined.
Notable quote:
Men despise religion. They hate it and are afraid it may be true. The cure for this is first to show that religion is not contrary to reason, but worthy of reverence and respect. Next make it attractive, make good men wish it were true, and then show that it is. Worthy of reverence because it really understands human nature. Attractive because it promises true good. (Pascal's Pensées, 12/187)Discuss
- How does the author define an apologist?
- What role do you see apologetics playing in evangelism?
- What role should prayer and humility play in doing apologetics?
Next week
Chapter Three: Apologetic Method
Chapter Three: Apologetic Method
5 comments :
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"Apologetics can be used to remove or diminish intellectual obstacles that hinder people from embracing Christ as Lord; thus it serves as pre-evangelism." I find that this is the reason I study apologetics; however, I find that I benefit a lot from studying in that I remove many obstacles from my own mind. Post-evangelism is possible, right? I suppose we clear the path, then we walk on the path, and we must work to remain on the path.
For the first question: "A defender and advocate for a particular position." Dr Groothius then expands the definition, pointing out that role of the apologist is not reserved exclusively for Christians: "There are apologists aplenty for all manner of religion and irreligion." Any thinking person who has considered what they believe and why they believe it, or has been challenged by someone else to do so, is likely an apologist at some level. The challenge for all is to present a rational defense that withstands critical examination. As Christians, we must also follow Christ's example in doing so.
Question 2 What role does apologetics play in evangelism?
Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God. I think the main roll in apologetics in evangelism is to strive to get the word of God a hearing. The bible will stand every and all tests and honest scrutiny because it is true. In it is found the gospel of Christ; the power of God unto salvation. Apologetics should be a means of getting to the bible.
This chapter suggests that Luke was the author of the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. While biblical scholars agree that the same author wrote both books, there is far from universal consensus that the author was a companion of Paul. Surely Prof. Groothuis is far more familiar with the considerable scholarship on this point than I am.
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