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Embodied Apologetic

The word “apologetic” comes from a greek word that means “to speak in defense” of something.  It basically is used in Christian and church circles in relation to “defending” or “arguing” your personal, spiritual or religious beliefs and convictions. 

The common scripture verse related to this idea is:

1 Peter 3:15-16 (ESV)
¹⁵ but in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you;
¹⁶ yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. (emphasis mine)

There is a distinct discipline cultivated in Christian and Christian academic circles called “apologetics” where individuals and organizations focus on how to give a defense of your beliefs in a rational, verbal and arguable way.  This discipline should be respected and admired for the dedication and skill acquired through its cultivation.  It has had tremendous and broad impact in spreading the message of the gospel in the world and throughout history. 

In observing and recognizing the actual and distinct transformation that has taken place in American culture over the last 40-50 years there is an inherent danger to adhering to a single methodology regarding apologetics or “defending our beliefs”.  Mark Batterson is Pastor of National Community Church and authors a blog Evotional.com.  He has written an insightful post on Radical Transparency.  He states that “authenticity is the postmodern apologetic”. 

We live in a postmodern culture where “postmodern” is defined as “accepting all belief systems as equally valid and true”.  In other words, you can argue and defend your beliefs until you are blue in the face and you may argue quite adequately!  People simply don’t care because although you might be exceptional in your ability to rationalize your argument, it is simply in their eyes, your personal beliefs.  Your truth is essentially “your truth”.  “And it doesn’t apply to everyone.” 

Here is the inherent danger of an apologetic argument:  You might “win” the argument, but you essentially will “lose” a heart!  To quote Mark Batterson, “People care less about how much you know than how real you are.”

“Embodied” Apologetics is defending our faith through an authentic life!  In quoting the above verse, we often forget the ”how” part of the scripture.  We defend our faith through “gentleness” and “respect”.  An embodied apologetic exudes from the LIFE of a genuine Christ follower!

We must develop the discipline of transparency!  We must stop the nonsense of carrying on with the “Christian” life as if we have it “all together“.  Pastors and leaders must be open and transparent about their shortcomings and failures as Christ followers.  Much care and discretion must be used, but transparency and authenticity is valuable in communicating Jesus’ message to the unchurched and non-Christian culture.

Instead of arguing, try “BEING” an apologetic!  Start today!  Live it AND say it!