Is Apologetics for everyone?

[Cathologetics]

Since this seems to be a growing "field" and all, I was curious how people felt about this. I mean can just anyone start doing apologetic work (I mean serious apologetic work, not simply explaining the basics behind a doctrine to your neighbor or something, but defending it using Scripture/History/Logic from an attack by a knowledgeable non-Catholic).

And who would you hold out from the forums as being a good example of an apologist? Why?

 

[seebs]

I believe very strongly that many people are not merely not called to apologetics, but actively bad at it. I think people have different callings, and some people try to engage in apologetics, not because they are called, but for personal glory; this is conterproductive.

 

[Borealis]

I don't think it's for everyone, and I don't know if it's for me. But I'm going to try it, because I believe it's the right thing to do. I've seen several attacks on these boards, and I've been defending the faith against an attack from a fundamentalist preacher through PMs on this board. I'm currently seeking a more professional opinion on my performance to see if I'm doing it right.

I'm not looking for glory; I'm trying to find God's calling for me (besides music, for which I'm thankful). I think I CAN do this; the question is, can I do it RIGHT?

 

[Cathologetics]

I believe very strongly that many people are not merely not called to apologetics, but actively bad at it. I think people have different callings, and some people try to engage in apologetics, not because they are called, but for personal glory; this is conterproductive.

Amen brother! I have seen some posts here which make me wonder about the people writing them. I have also seen some people, like Thereselittleflower, who I think are outstanding examples of an apologist. I sense that she really lives her faith.

Anyone who is snappy (or sarcastic like me), I think shouldn't be in this field. I have given it up for now. I may take it up again at some point, but until I can really live what I preach, I shouldn't preach too much. There was a pretty good outline in a thread here awhile back about what to do to become an apologist. It was this loooong list and I remember reading it and thinking "do I really want to do all that stuff?" I mean it would take me a long time. Like years maybe. It really sunk in though after awhile that this isn't something you rush into. It's serious stuff. I mean you are talking about people's FAITH. It's hard to turn that mirror inwards sometimes and face up to the facts. I love to argue and debate. I love coming up with little one-liners that are witty and make rhetorical points. I love it when people add to my reputation cause I said something funny rather than because I said something profound or even helpful or loving. But that is not really living my faith. I mean really. That image in my mirror needs some work before I point it at others.

Anyways its good to see that the vast majority seems to think that this isn't for everbody.

 

[Sleepy Jean]

I think every Catholic should know at least some form of Apologetics. Weither every one of them has the ability to make a good argument is different, but everyone should at least try to learn to defend their faith.

 

[NDIrish]

I have also seen some people, like Thereselittleflower, who I think are outstanding examples of an apologist. I sense that she really lives her faith.

You're right on...I learn something from theresalittleflower on just about every post of hers that I read.

 

[Cathologetics]

I think every Catholic should know at least some form of Apologetics. Weither every one of them has the ability to make a good argument is different, but everyone should at least try to learn to defend their faith.

Absolutely. I'm not saying that we shouldn't. I'm talking about those who would hold themselves out, either elicitly or impliedly (I know that isn't a word, but you get the point) through their actions, as apologists. There's a difference (at least in my warped mind). We should all know our faith, but not all of us should go about and engage in discussions/debates with people of other faiths who are looking to do the same with their faith. You see what I mean? Clear as mud, eh!?

 

[Filia Mariae]

I voted no.

I do think that every Catholic should be able to give a basic and reasoned defense of their beliefs.

But serious apologetics? No.
For that, there are a number of things you need:
1. Rock solid and extensive knowledge, not only of your own beliefs but of those you are trying to evangelize
2. Charitable, patient, and loving demeanor
3. The proper motivation (ie the glory of God, not the glory of oneself)
4. The ability to resist the temptation to be sarcastic, rude, or nasty
5. Well-spoken and written
6. True love of God and neighbor

Without all these things, we risk causing serious scandal to those we evangelize

 

[jgaudino]

I would take the middle aproach here also I think.

Everyone should be able to defend tehir faith and sadly very few modern American Catholics can. Its no wonder given what is being taught in Catholic classrooms, RCIA and other formation. We seemed to have forgotten that PARENTS are the primary catechists for children - not teachers. Anyway - don't get me started!!!

So - yes be able to give a "first round" and maybe a second even - of the common objections you will typically hear. As for "Professional" level apologetics I agree with others - its a calling. ONE I don't have! ! I do tend to do OK thar first few rounds but when things get nasty it is so difficult to not lashout back and that can never be an appropriate response. Fortunately most discussions don't get that bad! So many times I have heard people say when they were investigating "denominations" that Catholics were the only ones who didn't actively "bash" the othr smaller churches. I'm sure the same might be said for other denominations - just relating my experiences. It struck people very forcefully that we didn't bad mouth or shout. ONe of my local souther baptist churches is quite offensive and we get more people at our RCI class who relate this experience and contrast it with their experience at our parish.

My .02 is all!

Peace - John

 

[Preachers12]

Brethren in Christ, God give you Peace.

Here is a thread where people discuss ideas on what one should do in order to prepare for more serious apologetic work: http://www.christianforums.com/t56715&highlight=apologetic

God Bless,
P12

 

[Suzannah]

I think that the mark of a good apolgist (not me! I'm not good at it!) is one of dispassion. They are able to calmly and objectively state their position and provide their support for it. The best I've seen on these boards has been: ps139 and Rising_Suns (who is no longer here,but pursuing a vocation, I believe).
My two cents!

 

[Bushido216]

I believe very strongly that many people are not merely not called to apologetics, but actively bad at it. I think people have different callings, and some people try to engage in apologetics, not because they are called, but for personal glory; this is conterproductive.

I'm one of those who are actively bad in it.