Defending the Gospel

Welcome to the Days Appraise podcast, a daily devotional by the Institute for Creation Research. Defending the Gospel. But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defense of the gospel. Philippians 1.17. Many Christians decry the use of apologetics or evidences in Christian witnessing, feeling it somehow dishonors the Lord or the Scriptures to try to defend them.

But as our text indicates, Paul did not agree with this. The gospel does need defending, and he was set for its defense against the attacks of its adversaries. He also told his disciples that, in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. Philippians 1. The Greek word translated defense is apologia, from which we derive our English word apologetics.

It is a legal term meaning the case made by a defense attorney on behalf of a defendant under attack by a prosecutor. Thus Paul is saying, I am set to give an apologetic for the gospel, a logical, systematic, scientific if necessary, defense of the gospel against all the attacks of its adversaries. Since we are partakers with him in this defense, we also need to be ready always to give an answer, same word apologia, to every man that asketh us a reason of the hope that is in us. 1 Peter 3.15. Any Christian who shares his faith with the unsaved has encountered many who cannot believe the simple plan of salvation until his questions are answered.

We must be familiar with the many infallible proofs, Acts one three, of the deity of Christ and His power to save, both as omnipotent Creator and sin bearing Saviour. we must search the Scriptures daily, and also study the witness He has given in the creation., Acts seventeen, eleven, fourteen, seventeen. If we are to do this effectively, bringing forth fruit that will remain, John 15, 16, instead of fruit that has withered away because it had no root, Mark 4, 6. The gospel is under vicious attack today, so may God help us to be among its victorious defenders. If you've enjoyed today's devotional, be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and please rate and review so more listeners can find us.

To support ICR's ministry, visit icr.org forward slash donate. Your gift of any amount helps us reach others with biblical truth and encouragement. Thanks for listening. We hope you'll start each day with days of praise.