Christian Apologetics is the branch of Christian theology that deals with the defense and establishment of the Christian faith. It began in the first century after Christianity and its claims came under attack by people who denied the truth of Christ’s work, miracles, resurrection, and teachings. As a result, historical documents (the Gospels and Acts) along with the epistles from Paul, Peter, Jude, and John who wrote to correct false beliefs and erroneous accusations against the faith. The New Testament scriptures are the first apologetic work.

But, this apologetic practice was not just against unbelievers. It was also to correct believers who were confused. Please consider this.

“Now we request you, brethren, with regard to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, 2 that you not be quickly shaken from your composure or be disturbed either by a spirit or a message or a letter as if from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come. 3 Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, 4 who opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, displaying himself as being God. 5 Do you not remember that while I was still with you, I was telling you these things?” (2 Thess. 2:1-5).

In the above scripture, Paul had to write a letter of correction to the Thessalonians. They had been confused by some false information, but Paul corrected them with Scripture. This is apologetics and as a result, we have such things as the declaration to not exceed what is written (1 Cor. 4:6). After all, the scriptures are there for correction, among other things (2 Tim. 3:16).

Acts 15 recounts the Jerusalem Council dealing with the issue of circumcision as a requirement to be saved (Acts 15:1).  The elders discussed the issue condemning it as false teaching.  In addition, Paul addressed it in Gal. 5:1-5 and also condemned it.  In fact, there are many accounts in Scripture about correcting errors and teaching sound doctrine – all, of which, is apologetics.

• Correct those in opposition (2 Tim. 2:25).
• Make a defense for the faith (1 Pet. 3:15).
• Exhort and reprove, (Titus 2:15).
• Circumcision, (Gal. 5:4).
• Not allowing a woman to be a pastor (1 Tim. 2:12-14; 3:2).

So, it is evident that Christian apologetics began with the early church in the first century and the New Testament documents are, largely, a defense (apologetic) for the truth of who Jesus is, what He did on the cross, His resurrection, and the truths that are derived from His teachings.