Question 2: What benefits the believer from learning about Christian apologetics?
Answer 2: Christian apologetics is a vital part of discipleship for the believer.
Comment: Christians are called to be followers of Jesus Christ. Discipleship is a lifelong series of decisions that lead to a closer personal relationship and obedience to God and His directions for life. Apologetics, the study of the faith’s defense, can benefit the believer and help that believer achieve those goals. Apologetics aids in fulfilling three goals in the life of the Christian disciple.
First, apologetics assists in building the confidence of the disciple. Apologetics asserts that the Christian faith has a basis in rationality. We would say that it makes sense to be a Christian. Providing a foundation of reasonableness moves the believer from belief as an emotional choice in response to felt needs to a choice based on evidence. This builds confidence in the disciple.
Second, apologetics moves the disciples from a defensive position to an offensive one. It almost goes without saying that the Christian faith is under attack in popular culture. From doctrinal and moral choices to the very existence of objective truth itself, Christians are derided and vilified for their stance. A study of apologetics using rational and evidential arguments for the faith allows the disciple to give reasonable answers for the fundamental tenets of Christianity. A believer trained in apologetics need no longer fear the questions that come from critics or skeptics of Christianity.
Finally, apologetics helps build strength in the believer during times of suffering or doubt. All believers have experience circumstances that cause doubts. Is God there? Does He exist? Is the Bible true? How can I withstand the attack? The confident believer familiar with apologetics has the resources to respond with calm assurance that the Christian faith is true and that God will keep His promises to the disciple.
Scripture: “Now to Him who has power to strengthen you according to my gospel and the proclamation about Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery kept silent for long ages…” (Romans 16:25, HCSB).
Additional Resources: Kenneth Samples, “Addressing Doubts about the Faith,” Addressing Doubts about the Faith – Reasons to Believe
Mark Riser - Apologist 