Everyone knows the Great Commission involves the proclamation of the Gospel. What we often fail to realize is that the Bible also enjoins us to defend the Gospel. In Philippians 1:17 Paul said he was placed here “for the defense of the Gospel.” To be bearers of the Good News involves more than just its proclamation. Proclamation is where it begins, but it is not always where it ends. Often it involves a defense of what was proclaimed as well.

 

Just a few verses earlier (v. 7) Paul said he was engaged in the “defense and confirmation of the Gospel.” Not only did Paul defend the Gospel against those who opposed it, but he also argued for its truth. His approach was both offensive and defensive.

 

The defense and confirmation of the Gospel is an important part of the church’s evangelistic efforts. That is why Paul said we should know how to answer the questions/objections of non-Christians (Col 4:5-6). That is also why Paul instructed Timothy to be both meek and informed, correcting his opponents with gentle instruction so that they might know the truth (II Tim 2:25). The field of apologetics specializes in the defense and confirmation of the Gospel. It equips believers with the relevant knowledge to defend the message of the Gospel against its detractors who level arguments against it, and it equips believers with the relevant knowledge to demonstrate the truth of the Gospel’s claims.
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If you have never studied the field of apologetics I would invite you to do so. It will help equip you with the knowledge you need to proclaim, defend, and confirm the Gospel.