Have you heard of the expression “pastor as theologian?” The phrase was born from the recent emphasis on pastors being able to shepherd their congregations in a deeply held theological and biblical view of the ministry.
Given the current climate of culture I’m convinced that another focus is required: the pastor as an apologist. Like pastors have to be trained theologically in order to guide their congregations through the Bible and to preach the Word of God, they must also be equipped to be apolitical.
When done correctly If done correctly, apologetics can become an invaluable tool for pastors in leading their congregations. There are three ways that how apologetics can help the church’s leaders.
- A pastor’s role as an apologist is to guide people through times of doubt.
Our churches often do not create an environment in which those who have doubts are able to ask questions. Most churches do not make this mistake intentionally.
Many questions are not asked due to the fear of being judged that is frequently connected with doubt. In some instances when these inquiries are made, solutions provided are not able to help overcome the mental hurdles.
A church environment where there is a place for doubts to be expressed and questions are asked is beneficial. It may challenge our thinking, prompt us to look for truth, and eventually lead us to a greater love and devotion to the one that is Truth.
Since the apologetics process is seeking out the “truth” in the midst of confusion, apologetics are all about Jesus. In Jesus we can find the source for truth. He is, as apostle John wrote in the Gospel of John, “the way, the truth, and the life.”
If we are apprehensive, we are not just engaging in a method of thinking critically and deeply about abstract subjects. We’re also entering into another discipline in life, the Christian life. Apologetics not only increases our devotion and love for God but will also help us become more like Jesus and praise Him.
- A pastor who is apologist could assist people in defending their convictions.
According to Paul’s apostle Paul the church’s management are charged with equipping saints for their ministry (Ephesians 4:11-12).
It will require equipping believers not only with the ability to faithfully communicate the gospel, but also as Peter says in 1 Peter 3:15, to confidently defend the faith of that gospel to anyone who inquires. This aspect becomes more pertinent in the light of today’s fast-paced change in society.
Church members should be able to consider these questions from a theological perspective and articulate in a convincing way what the Christian worldview tackles these questions.
In training members of the church for their work in ministerial work, leaders of churches must include Christian Apologizing as a key element of the preparation process.
- A pastor’s role as an apologist could offer reasonable support to people’s faith.
In addition to trying to ease doubts or answer questions The pastor, as an apologist is looking to go beyond that in providing intellectual support for those who believe in the church. Of course, this doesn’t mean saying that faith is just an intellectual pursuit. It’s certainly not.
But there is a reason that it is true that the Bible as well as theologians from all over church history talk of faith which seeks to understand and personal growth of the brain (Romans 12:1-2). Through helping people comprehend the historical background and supporting evidence to their faith and beliefs, the pastor’s role as an Apologist is a direct source of motivation and strength to faith-based people.
Keep in mind that apologetics are an act of service to other people. It’s not about engaging in disputes or winning arguments. It is, first and foremost, is about being a faithful follower of Jesus in the way we love Him and graciously display Jesus to the people around us.