What Apologetics is Not

I thought it a good idea to kick off my discussion of apologetics and Christian evidences by discussing what it is not. Many Christians seem to be of the belief that apologetics is the magic bullet; that once I say the right thing, even the most hard and fast unbeliever will suddenly be converted. This is simply not the case.

1. Apologetics, in any field, cannot prove God's existence. We, as humans, cannot prove the supernatural beyond a doubt. We can play a part in it, but only God can reveal Himself. (Romans 1 tells us that God reveals Himself to us sufficiently that we have no excuse for disbelief.)
The most that apologetics can do is give evidence of God's existence. There comes a time when the evidence that human beings can conceive ends, are we are left to faith, with God's revelation remaining.

2. Apologetics is not evangelism. 1 Peter 3:15, the favorite verse of many apologists, instructs us not to go beating down our neighbor's door with our list of reasons they should believe. The first step to apologetics is to make the Messiah our Lord, and to be ready to answer whatever questions arise. This is not to say that apologetics cannot or does not play a part in evangelism. Understanding the physical evidences and the philosophical arguments for God's existence can help the believer to answer questions when evangelizing. The key here, again, is answering questions.

3. Apologetics is not a way to "beat down those rotten atheists." We should engage our opponents respectfully, and with love. This does not imply that we act as if they are always right, or their beliefs are ok for them. We should, however, remember that the only thing that separates us from them is the Grace of God. It's ok to engage in discussion and debate. It helps the believer to sharpen their belief, and forces the unbeliever to face their unbelief.

In short, apologetics is a human endevour, and as such, failable. We can discuss, debate, and jump up and down until we are blue in the face. The Holy Spirit must guide the unbeliever down the last few steps to salvation.