Introduction

Apologetics

But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer (apologian) to everyone who asks you to give the reason (logon) for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 1 Pet 3:15 (NIV)

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; 1 Pet 3:15 (NKJ)

Apologetics is a command of the Lord Jesus to Christian believers through the pen of the Apostle Peter.  The English word, apologetic, is a word that finds its origin in the Greek New Testament in 1 Peter 3:15.  The Apostle Peter instructs Christians to provide an apology (apologia), to everyone who asks about our faith and hope in the Lord Jesus Christ.  As can be seen in Strong's Dictionary definition, the Greek word apologia suggests a reasoned defense of the faith.  Strong's Dictionary gives the following definition of the Greek word, apologia.  This Greek word is a compound of apo + logos.  

Strong's number 627 apologia (ap-ol-og-ee'-ah); from the same as 626; a plea ("apology"): KJV-- answer (for self), clearing of self, defence.

Strong's 626 apologeomai (ap-ol-og-eh'-om-ahee); middle voice from a compound of 575 and 3056; to give an account (legal plea) of oneself, i.e. exculpate (self): KJV-- answer (for self), make defence, excuse (self), speak forself.

An apologia is to be a reasoned defense of Christian beliefs.  A reasoned defense is required by the verses given in the heading of this article.  The NIV translates 1 Peter 3:15 with this phrase, "to give the reason (Greek, logon).  The Greek word, logon, is the Greek word, logos.  Strong's Dictionary gives the definition of the word, logos.  It is the Greek word from which the English word logic etymologically traces its origin.  Now, a reasoned defense of the gospel would have to be a logical presentation of the truth of the gospel.  

Strong's number 3056 logos (log'-os); from 3004; something said (including the thought); by implication a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a computation; specifically (with the article in John) the Divine Expression (i.e. Christ): 

Basically, a Christian apologetic is a logically reasoned defense of Christian beliefs that is offered to anyone who makes inquiry regarding our hope in our Savior Jesus Christ.  In obedience to the scriptures, early Christians responded and wrote works entitled, Apology.

Examples of ancient Christian apologetic writings

Justin Martyr  First Apology
Justin Martyr  Second Apology
Tertullian Apology