Apologetics Glossary: Key Terms Explained
Plain-language definitions of common apologetics terms — from inerrancy to theodicy — so you can study and discuss the faith with confidence.
Apologetics has its own vocabulary. These plain-language definitions will help you read, study, and discuss the defense of the faith with confidence and clarity.
- Apologetics — giving a reasoned defense of the Christian faith (from the Greek apologia, "defense"), as Peter urges in 1 Peter 3:15.
- Inerrancy — the teaching that Scripture, in its original writings, is wholly true and trustworthy.
- Theodicy — the attempt to understand how a good and powerful God can allow evil and suffering.
- Worldview — the basic framework of beliefs through which a person interprets reality.
- Presuppositional apologetics — an approach that begins from the truth of God and Scripture rather than arguing to it from neutral ground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a scholar to do apologetics? +
No. Apologetics simply means being ready to give a gracious reason for your hope. A humble, prayerful believer can do this well.
Is apologetics about winning arguments? +
No. The goal is not to win debates but to remove obstacles and point people lovingly to Jesus Christ.
The Gospel
Every term here ultimately serves one aim: to clear the way to Christ, "in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (Colossians 2:3).
Learn the words, but love the people. Knowledge is a tool; Christ is the goal.
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