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On Overcoming Christian Shame: Standing Boldly for the Gospel

Since its earliest days, Christianity has been the object of ridicule and debate. The actions of those who called themselves Christians did not help with the world’s view of Christianity. History tells us of the Inquisition and past religious corruption all in the name of Christianity. Today, we see this trend of those associated with Christianity misrepresenting the name of Christ. Because of this, many are ashamed to call themselves Christians because of negative perceptions. Are you committed to Christ and willing to be identified with the faith? However, Christians have to take the same sentiment as Paul. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. Romans 1:16 (KJV) Christians have been accused of being hypocrites, bible thumpers, spiritual elitists, and the like. However, anyone that is a true Christian understands these things not to be true. True Christians do not hat

On Defending the Faith (Post 3): The Method of Christian Apologetics

       A common expression is, "There is a method to the madness." Though this expression is used to defend someone's unorthodox ways to accomplish certain tasks, it partially holds true for apologetics; namely, there is a method to defending the faith. In our first two posts, we briefly addressed the mandate and the mindset of apologetics, respectively. However, there is a method to do this from a biblical perspective. The method to apologetics does not begin in following prescribed steps, but in the internal approach of the one engaging in it. Continuing our examination of I Peter 3;15-16, we find these words, "...with meekness and fear:   Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ." (I Peter 3:15b-16)      Peter admonished the believers to be ready to defend the faith, but the method to be employed is meekness and fear. This means that the believer s

On Defending the Faith (Post 2): The Mindset of Christian Apologetics

       Relativism is an established doctrine of today's society. Though there are those who hold to traditional values with respect to culture and religion, the global trend is to promote the idea of "personal truth." This means that what is true for one, may not be true for another: just live out your own truth. Because of this prevailing attitude toward faith and spirituality, the Christian must be spiritually and mentally prepared to engage in apologetics. The Christian must have the proper mindset while standing in defense of the faith. Continuing our examination of I Peter 3:15-16, we find that Peter gives us the proper mindset needed for effective apologetics. "...but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you..." (I Peter 3:15a)           As opposed to the generalized theism presented in society, the Christian has to have a passionate, unwavering fear

On Defending the Faith (Post 1): The Mandate of Christian Apologetics

       What is truth? This question posed by Pilate to Jesus has challenged philosophers, thinkers, and theologians. However (like Pilate who walked away after his inquiry) many who claim they are in search of truth, really have no interest in finding "truth" because it will demand a lifestyle response. Therefore, many make truth elusive, especially where the divine is concerned, so no ultimate commitment or rejection is required due to glorified agnosticism. Though there have been distortions of the Christian faith, doctrine, and practice, the core truth claims of Christianity remain. The Christian, today, has to be willing to stand on the faith and have the proper approach, appeal, and apparatus to defend the faith. This post is the beginning of a three part series concerning Christian apologetics.      When individuals hear the word apologetics, they oftentimes feel this is reserved for a special class of Christians who are well versed, educated, and hold some sort of eccl