What is Apologetics cont.

Link to the source - http://www.the-daily-blessing.com/apologetics/whatis.html

Some of the most devout atheists in history, and still today, have become Christians as a result of their studies and the polite and informative defenses that are presented to them. If you are a Christian, you need to remember to put yourself in the shoes of the critic when debating with them. Someone is much more likely to take an honest look at what you say if it's polite and respectful, rather than forceful, rude, sarcastic or demanding. Most atheists, though certainly not all, can be very rude or sarcastic in their discussions on this subject. It is therefore very easy for the Christian to want to respond in the same manner. But the Christian needs to be sure to focus on the higher purpose, spreading the truth. If you focus on your feelings and respond in the same negative manner, the non-believer will be much less likely to listen to what you have to say, even if they realize truth in it.

Christians plant the seeds, and then through faith God does the real work in the hearts of critics. Therefore it is very important that each defense is preceded by prayer.

Apologetics is mentioned in the New Testament eight times, the final time being the most often used verse for this subject.

"Brothers and fathers, listen now to my defense." - Acts 22:1

"I told them that it is not the Roman custom to hand over any man before he has faced his accusers and has had an opportunity to defend himself against their charges." - Acts 25:16

"This is my defense to those who sit in judgment on me." - 1 Corinthians 9:3

"See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done. At every point you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter." - 2 Corinthians 7:11

" We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. And we will be ready to punish every act of disobedience, once your obedience is complete." - 2 Corinthians 10:5-6

"It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart; for whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God's grace with me." - Philippians 1:7

"At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them." - 2 Timothy 4:16

" But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect," - 1 Peter 3:15