For The Defense Of The Gospel

1 Peter 3:15; Jude 3; 2 Timothy 3:14-17; Joshua 1:8; Ezra 7:10; Hosea 4:6

Have you ever given an argument about something for which you have deep convictions? We often get very passionate about things that matter most to us. A quick glance at Facebook will likely reveal such passion.

In Philippians 1:16 (NASB) Paul says that he was appointed for the defense of the gospel. Although Paul had been imprisoned and was possibly under house arrest and chained to a guard at the time of this writing, he knew that through it all this was a divine appointment allowing him the chance to witness and give explanation of the gospel of Christ.

The Greek word for defense used here is transliterated apologia,
which is also where we get our English word apologetics from. I remember thinking it strange when I first heard of Christian apologetics, assuming that it had something to do with apologizing for the faith. Actually, the term was originally used of a speech of defense or an answer given in reply. In a courtroom, after an accusation was made, the accused would attempt to "speak away" (apo-away, logia-speech) the accusation. 

Peter instructs us to always be ready to make a defense (apologia) to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence; (1 Peter 3:15 NASB), while Jude tells us in verse 3 to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all handed down to the saints. It is obvious that we, like Paul, have been appointed by God to be ready to defend the gospel. Of course, the only way to defend something is to know it... and know it well. So let us be diligent to present (ourselves) approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15 NASB) and always be ready to give an answer for our faith. 

Pastor Mike Deese