DB 2 Early Christian Apologetics

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Liberty University *

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Religion

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Apr 3, 2024

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Uploaded by BryJay0109

Describe Christian Apologetics in the Second Century? Christian apologetics refers to the defense of the faith against spreading spiritual falsehood. During this time, the early Christians were trying to prove and defend the existence of the Messiah in Jesus Christ regarding his birth, life, death, and ascent. Through Apologetics, Christians proved the existence of Jesus and, therefore, the presence of God, and they were prepared to defend Christianity to non-believers and believers if necessary. As Ferguson states, “The anonymous author argues for the divine origin of Christianity as superior to the idolatry of pagans and the ritualistic worship of Jews.” 1 The Apostle Peter explains, “but in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to answer everyone who asks you to give a reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15, NKJV) 2 . What were the accusations against Christians? Believers faced many accusations of significant maltreatment among their followers, such as “Not acknowledging Caesar as lord, refusing loyalty, atheism, cannibalism, and incest” 3 during the second century. The religion established a minority community population within the Roman Empire. Yet, Christianity was considered a cult, and participants were punished heavily when found practicing an outlawed religious faith. There was also a belief that Jesus never existed; therefore, Christianity was not a legal religion since the core beliefs surrounded the birth, life, and death of Jesus. The apologists of this era argued against these accusations and were often persecuted for defending their Christian beliefs. How did apologists like Justin respond? Justin and other early Christian apologists during the Second Century were ready to defend Christianity verbally and through their writings. Justin responds to charges of “incest, cannibalism, atheism, and being a subversive group. Instead of being immoral, Christianity, he argues, is very moral. 1 Everett Ferguson, Church History, Volume One: From Christ to the Pre-Reformation: The Rise and Growth of the Church in Its Cultural, Intellectual, and Political Context (Second Edition) (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2013), 72. 2 Unless otherwise noted, all biblical passages referenced are in the New King James Version. 3 Everett Ferguson, Church History, Volume One: From Christ to the Pre-Reformation: The Rise and Growth of the Church in Its Cultural, Intellectual, and Political Context (Second Edition) (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2013), 73.
Justin further argues from the antiquity of the Jewish Scriptures and the fulfillment of their prophecies in Christianity.” 4 Justin also had many scholars following his teachings and his school of thought regarding Christianity and Jesus being the son of God, manifested in the flesh, who was crucified and resurrected. Justin wrote to Emperor Antoninus Pius, urging him to make the religion legal; his letter was an appeal for public recognition by fellow Romans that Christians were not enemies of the empire. What could apologist principles be used today in a modern context? The First Apologist’s principles were clear concerning defending their Christian beliefs by gaining knowledge and understanding of the Gospel. Those same principles are relevant and applicable in today’s society. Still, one problem Christians face is knowing how to defend what they believe in and hold onto their faith in what Christ has promised each of us. As a modern-day Christian, it is still necessary for Christians to defend Christianity by presenting the audience with the word of God and using a rational and compelling argument. As a believer, it is also necessary for modern-day apologists to be prepared to be challenged and also persecuted for their Christian beliefs. 4 Ibid, 74.
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