apologetics and humility

In arguing for a Christian apologetic and Christian presuppositions, one of the more obvious roadblocks is the simple realization that we might be wrong. In our determination to be true to the gospel, there is always the possibility–being human and imperfect–of error.

What if we are inaccurate about this or that assessment? What if we overly emphasize a truth to such an extent that other truths are minimized or ignored? These and similar possibilities require that Christians approach apologetics in a truly humble fashion. Though boldness can be an admirable trait, and while confidence is not to be despised, any truly Christian endeavor will be saturated with humility. To this end a number of factors come into play.

First, as Christians we are called to grow, which implies growth in every area, including apologetics. Indeed, even the perfect Jesus grew in wisdom and knowledge. How much more so must we.

Second, as believers we are called to follow Jesus. Following assumes that we don’t have all of the answers but instead follow the One who does.

Third, humility is probably best facilitated through what we might call “big picture” apologetics. That is, we are on much more solid ground when we defend, exclaim, and show forth those aspects of the faith that have been affirmed down through the ages and which are not extraneous to the larger cause of the gospel.

Fourth, all apologists are, by the nature of the case, recipients of grace. This means that we ought to be able to sympathize with the hurts and uncertainty of our non-Christian counterparts to the degree that what they experience is a part of the common human condition. To approach apologetics in a distant and unaffected manner is not only unhelpful to the apologetics enterprise but is a sure sign that we lack authenticity.

Fifth, as many passages in Scripture affirm, apologetics entails humility and gentleness. The presentation of evidence and the promulgation of Christian presuppositions ought always to be bathed in a realism, compassion, and love. If we are truly humble and gentle, we will also remain cognizant of the possibility of blind spots, inaccuracies, and errors in our approach to apologetics.

Apologetics, like all facets of the Christian life, must be a humble endeavor. While we should not shy away from sharing the truth with confidence, our apologia ought always be tempered with humility and a sense that we, too, are fellow travelers on the way, dependent on the mercy of God, and always excitedly anticipating whatever new light He might shine on our paths.