THE NEED FOR APOLOGETICS- Introduction
“Why do apologetics? Isn’t just having faith enough?” This response is typical of many Christians who believe apologetics is simply unnecessary. What is the purpose of apologetics?

THE NEED FOR APOLOGETICS- The Bible Tells Us So
The first reason why we need apologetics is that the Bible says we do. Contrary to some of the teachers in the church today who literally mock apologetics, Scripture commands us to be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks us about our beliefs and to earnestly contend for the faith (1 Pet. 3:15 and Jude 3). In 1 Peter 3:15 we actually find the Greek work Apologia, which just happens to be where we get the word apologetics from in the first place.

THE NEED FOR APOLOGETICS- Role Models from the Bible
The Bible provides us with numerous role models when it comes to apologetics. The Apostle Paul was an apologist when he gave reasons for the faith to both the Jews and Greeks (Acts 17:15-34; 18:4). Apollos is another great example. In Achaia, he earnestly contended for the faith, publicly refuting the Jews in public debate and proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ (Acts 18:27-28). Christ himself demonstrated the significance of apologetics when he defended his divinity in discussions with the skeptical leaders of His day (Matt. 22).

THE NEED FOR APOLOGETICS- Proof for the nonbeliever
Not only that, but apologetics provides empirical proof to the nonbeliever as to why he ought to choose Christianity rather than any other religion. According to apologist John Warwick Montgomery, in our pluralistic age, the unbeliever is faced with many religious options. If he went through an alphabetical list of religions, he would have already experienced Atheism, Baha’i, Buddhism and many other choices before arriving at Christianity. And by then, his mind would be so “jaded” that he wouldn’t be able to know the truth if it was standing directly in front of him!

THE NEED FOR APOLOGETICS- Defense against False Teachings
You see, apologetics serves as a defense against false teachings. Whether we’re talking about cults, world religions, secular humanism, or even a misguided Christian, apologetics not only keeps the gospel messages pure, but demonstrates why we believe what we believe. One final thought. Apologetics provides not only a defense for the faith, but provides security to weaker Christians who need to be sure that their faith is not a blind leap into a dark chasm, but rather, faith founded on fact.See, apologetics does not replace faith, but it does remove the mental roadblocks which prevent nonbelievers from responding to the gospel. In fact, apologetics can rightly be called the very handmaiden for evangelism. Truly the heart cannot rejoice in what the mind does not comprehend. On the need for apologetics, that’s the CRI Perspective. I’m Hank Hanegraaff.