INTRODUCTION TO CATHOLIC APOLOGETICS
Apologetics is a reasoned defense of something or someone. There are three types of Apologetics: Natural, Christian, and Catholic.
The word “apologetics” comes from the Greek word “apologia,” pronounced, “ap-ol-og-ee’-ah.” It means, “a verbal defense.” It is used eight times in the New Testament: Acts 22:1; 25:16; 1 Cor. 9:3; 2 Cor. 7:11; Phil. 1;7,17; 2 Tim. 4:16, and 1 Pet. 3:15. But it is the last verse that is most commonly associated with Christian apologetics.
Christian apologetics is the branch of theology that deals with answering any and all critics who oppose or question the validity of Christianity. It can include studying such subjects as biblical manuscript transmission, philosophy, biology, mathematics, evolution, logic, history, etc. But it can also consist of simply giving an answer to a question about Jesus or a Bible passage.
Why Catholic Apologetics?
1 Peter 3:15 The Truth,
1 Timothy 2:4,
John 8:32,
John 18:37,
CCC #819
There comes a time when we, as Catholics, have to be able to defend and explain certain teachings of our Catholic Faith. - Bishop David Foley
Rules for Apologetics
1. Do not be afraid. (Luke 5:10)
2. Do not be afraid to say, “I don’t know, but I’ll find out and get back to you.”
3. Always look at an attack on your faith as an opportunity.
4. Never get frustrated.
5. Stay focused.
6. Know who you are talking to.
Catholic Apologetic Examples
Baptism is not just symbolic.
Ezekiel 36:25-27
Acts 2:38
Acts 22:16
1 Corinthians 12:13
Romans 6:3-4
John 3:5
1 Peter 3:20-21
Confession to a Priest
1 John 1:9
James 5:16
Leviticus 5:5-6
John 20:22-23
Matthew 9:6-8
John 17:18
Repetitive prayer (of the Rosary)
Matthew 26:44
Revelation 4:6-8
Presented by : The Bible Christian Society
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