Apologetics
"The origin of the concept of apologetics lies in the beginnings of Christianity. Between the second and fourth century, a number of Christian teachers wrote defenses of Christianity against pagan critics.
The term apologetics comes from the Greek word apologia found in 1 Peter 3:15 ("...always be ready to give a defense or answer to everyone who asks you..."). Apologia is a legal term that simply means "defense." So apologetics is the branch of Christian theology that is concerned with making a defense.
The following quantrain is taken from my poem
on the previous blog, entitled, "America America"
and was based on Matthew 21:31
Hearken prostitutes; there is hope! You recognize tears of darkest fears
Tis the avaricious and self-righteous,
In danger here; who has ears to hear?
This blog addreses questions and concerns messaged to me by readers. Even though it is
a poem, as it is also spiritual, I suppose apologetics for support of my using these lines is
in order. I’m posting my answer in blog form as I haven’t had time to answer all of the
messages, and my granddaughter will be here for the weekend. Also, due to the number
of messages, I can only assume there may be others with similar views. I hope this helps.
I’m not a teacher of the word, therefore, my defense is simply to share the scriptures that
I based my thoughts on for that particular quantrain. I’ll leave it subject to your own
interpretation. I'm genuinely interested in your views and open for discussion. Don't
worry about hurting my feelings. Be honest, because I certainly will. I’m fully aware of
people differing in their interpretations regarding scriptures. Just look at all the
denominations! Nevertheless, I believe if we each search for truth, we'll find it.
This is a set up for the parable of the two sons
(Matthew 21-27, paraphrased)
Jesus went to the Temple to teach. The chief priests and Jewish leaders came and challenged Him. "What right do you have to do these things? Who gave you this authority?"
Jesus told them that He'd answer them if they'd answer His question. He asked them, "The baptism of John, whence was it? from heaven or from men?"
They talked amongst themselves, knowing that if they answer "Heaven," then they're left having to explain why they didn’t follow John -- and that if they answer "From men," then the people will get rowdy on them since they loved St. John the Baptist and believed what he said.
So they copped out, unable to tell their real thoughts out of fear of what people might think of them, and said, "We know not."
Jesus answered, "Neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things"
and then He told them this parable.
Matthew 21:28-32
But what think you? A certain man had two sons; and coming to the first, he said: Son, go work today in my vineyard. And he answering, said: I will not. But afterwards, being moved with repentance, he went. And coming to the other, he said in like manner. And he answering, said: I go, Sir; and he went not. ~ Matthew 21:28-32
Which of the two did the father's will? They say to him: The first. Jesus said to them: Amen I say to you, that the publicans and the harlots shall go into the kingdom of God before you. For John came to you in the way of justice, and you did not believe him. But the publicans and the harlots believed him: but you, seeing it, did not even afterwards repent, that you might believe him.
"Which of the two did what his father wanted?" "The first," they answered. Jesus said to them, "I tell you the truth, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. Matthew 21:31
In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? James 2:25
By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient. Hebrews 11:31
Observations:
Parables which give reproof, speak plainly to the offenders, and judge them out of their own mouths. The whole human race are like children whom the Lord has brought up, but they have rebelled against him, only some are more plausible in their disobedience than others. And it often happens, that the daring rebel is brought to repentance and becomes the Lord's servant, while the formalist grows hardened in pride and enmity.
Hopes and Promises Regarding Prayers . . .
When Jesus comes into the heart, he issues a general license to be glad in the Lord. No chains are worn in the court of King Jesus. Our admission into full privileges may be gradual, but it is sure.
"The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. Luke 10:2; Matthew 9:37
O Israel, put your hope in the LORD, for with the LORD is unfailing love and with him is full redemption. Psalm 130:7
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28 -30
