The basis for an objective apologetic

Why do I believe what I believe? This question has repeatedly surfaced in my mind over the past few months. These questions, combined with the world’s ever increasing effort to undermine the validity of Christianity, has created a deep desire within me to analyze why and how I have confidence in the authenticity of Jesus and the Bible.

Having no formal theological training, unless you want to count the few bible classes I took in college -- knowledge from which I’ve all but forgotten -- I’m looking to create an objective set of criteria by which I can read various religious, historic, and scientific sources to be able to firmly explain why I believe certain things.

Historically, man has used written apologetics to outline their specific beliefs and then to defend those beliefs against critics.

Ask.com defines it this way “The term apologetics comes from the Greek apologia, which means "defense" or "answer." Apologetics is the task of defending a particular idea or belief system and answering its critics. The origin of the concept of apologetics lies in the beginnings of Christianity. Between the second and fourth century, a number of Christian teachers wrote defenses of Christianity against pagan critics.

Usually, apologetics occurs in a religious context, and involves giving reasons for adopting a particular religion as opposed to some other religion or no religion at all. Apologetic defenses are done of doctrines so fundamental to a faith that it is assumed that no members would disagree with them - thus, the defenses are created with external critics in mind.

Most apologists one encounters tend to be Christian apologists, because a great many Christians believe that it is an important part of their faith that they go out and convert others.”

That pretty much sums up where I’m at - desiring to define my beliefs (It helps to know why you believe something when defending it and sharing it) -- and wanting to understand why others are critical of the beliefs I hold.

Stay tuned for more from the prodigal pig.