Prologue: Apologia

That famous colloquial saying reminds us that talk of politics and religion often ruin a good party. It is true because those topics (among others) reveal at least two things: the way we see the world and the way we want it to be. Ironically enough, in our day, cynicism toward both has lost its taboo. We are allowed to deconstruct religion and politics with previously unknown candor. We are able to speak "contra" with great zeal and no great reprisal. I think this is a good thing. It's actually a very ancient practice called polemics used by theologians and philosophers from every tongue and nation and religious persuasion.

So firstly, this class is an invitation to polemics. Bring your doubts, questions, and skepticism to the table and see how they play out. As a pastor, i must admit that Christianity says some pretty complex and difficult things about the universe. Belief in this historic faith requires inquiry. But also let the table turn. Doubt your doubts. Question your questions. Be skepitical of your skepticism. Honest questions deserve honest scrutiny.

Secondly, this class is an introduction to Apologetics--Christian Apologetics to be exact. The term apologetics comes from the Greek word aplogia--meaning defense. So apologetics and apologists defend their philosophies or theologies. Christian apologists defend aspects of the Christian faith.

Now, I don't like the term defense very well. I like the term apologetics much better. Defense sounds like everybody must be attacking you. Besides the occasional Dawkins, that's just not true. Defense also sounds like everything must be a fight. Sure fights happen and they should happen about our most deeply held convictions, but fights--philosophical or physical--rarely end without both folks getting hurt. So i prefer apologetics--in translation it has a deep connection with concepts of humility and love of neighbor. I want the posture of this class to embody such things.

So put on your thinking caps, clear out some ear wax, sharpen your minds, and soften your hearts--let us walk together toward a better, fairer, more humble understanding of Christianity.