It is the discipline that equips one with defense skills through a systematic utilization of information. It is an old discipline. The early Christians had to respond to their critics through a systematic use of language. They had to stand firm and defend their perspectives and religious positions (Hubenthal, 2016). Critics had a difficult time trying to win them out of their religious customs and beliefs. Due to their well articulated defenses, the field of apologetics was born. They were termed as apologists by their critics (DeStefano, 2016). Today, apologetics exists in form of debates over religion, gender issues, theology and politics among other areas.
Apologetics as a term is linked to the old Greek word ‘apologia’. During a classical legal phenomenon, prosecutors and the defendant used two technical terminologies; the prosecution rendered the ‘kategoria’ and the defendant responded with an apologia. The rendition of the apologia meant the making of a formal speech with explanations. The speech encompasses a formal reply and a rebuttal of the rendered judgment. From then, many people and groups of persons used systematic speeches to communicate and defend their perspectives, positions and choices.
Delegate your assignment to our experts and they will do the rest.
Importance of Apologetics
I stand to benefit a lot by studying apologetics. Apologetics has many advantages to an individual, groups of persons and society at large. First, apologetics guarantees one or group of persons the chance to offer their own perspectives and opinions (Hubenthal, 2016). They do not remain silent victims of other persons’ criticisms or judgments. They argue out their positions in an organized use of available information. This assures them a psychological and existential stability. They do not exist as mere adherents of what is presented unto them. Due to this, I will exert a lot of effort in my study of it to ensure that I get ample knowledge in the field. Secondly, apologetics prevents ideological monopoly (DeStefano, 2016). It helps others see the existence and importance of available arguments, perspectives and options. It makes society have and appreciate the many perspectives and approaches to issues. Consequently, apologetics will help me be part of the people appreciating and promoting diversity.
Conclusion
Apologetics is among the oldest disciplines. It involves a systematic utilization of information to articulate a stand, a judgement, a notion or an opinion (van, 2016). It provides one with the chance to defend and retain their autonomy. It encourages informed adherence to a belief, an idea or a philosophy. I stand a chance to benefit from my study of apologetics.
References
DeStefano, M.T. (2016). DuBourg’s Defencse of St. Mary’s College: Apologetics and the Creation of a Catholic Identity in the Early American Republic. Church History, 85 (1), 65-96.
Hubenthal, C. (2016). Apologetic Communication. International Journal of Public Theology, 10 (1), 7-27.
Van, V.W. (2016). Complementary Apologetics: An Attempt for the Integration of Apologetic Schools. In Die Skriflig, 50 (1), 1-9.
