The main idea of Lesson 1 was to establish the importance of apologetics in the Christian faith. Pastor Brad Anderson stressed that apologetics is not about winning arguments but about faithfully presenting and defending the truth of Christianity. He pointed out that apologetics serves multiple purposes: it defends the faith against objections, answers criticisms, and challenges non-Christian worldviews. Ultimately, apologetics is about being ready to give an answer for the hope we have in Christ, doing so with gentleness and respect.
1 Peter 3:15, Acts 18:4, Acts 19:8-9, Acts 22:1, Philippians 1:7, Philippians 1:16, Jude 3, Titus 1:3, Titus 1:9-11
What are some common objections to Christianity we might encounter, and how can we respond to them?
How does understanding the purpose of apologetics change the way we engage with non-believers?
In what ways can apologetics strengthen our own faith as well as help others?
In Lesson 1, Pastor Brad Anderson introduced us to the meaning and purpose of apologetics, emphasizing its significance in an era where society often ridicules the Bible and its followers. He explained that apologetics involves defending Christian truth-claims against various challenges, such as the meaningfulness of miracles, the deity of Christ, and the historical accuracy of the Bible. Pastor Brad highlighted the importance of being prepared to make a defense for our hope in Jesus Christ, as instructed in 1 Peter 3:15, and underscored that apologetics is not just for a select few but a calling for all Christians to explain and defend their faith.
Let us commit to studying the Scriptures diligently so we can confidently defend our faith when challenged.
Encourage one another in the faith, so we can stand firm together in the truth of the Gospel.