Our Call to Evangelize - Unit 1 - Intro to Apologetics & Evangelization

Apologetics (definition)

a reasoned defense of the Faith

Universal call to apologetics

All Christians are called to give reason/defend what they believe according to their own capacity (see 1 Peter 3:15).

Apologetics (benefits)

Gives reasons for one's faith and can clear up misconceptions. We cannot love what we do not know. It can also lead others to more easily convert

Apologetics (limitations)

Does not guarantee conversion of others nor personal holiness for those who engage in apologetics

Three Levels of Apologetics

1) Natural, 2) Christian, 3) Catholic

Natural Apologetics (topic)

God

Christian Apologetics (topic)

Christ

Catholic Apologetics (topic)

The Catholic Church

Truth

That which corresponds with reality.

Properties of Truth

1) Discovered, not Invented, 2) Universal (extends to all people and places), 3) Unchanging, 4) Based on facts, not feelings

Skepticism

A position which doubts that we can use our senses to acquire truth. It errs logically by using the senses to deny them.

Relativism

Truth differs from person to person and culture to culture. It contradicts itself b/c it claims the only truth is that there is no truth.

Modernism

Truth can be reinterpreted or reinvented as people's view changes. This violates the principle that truth is unchanging.

Philosophy

The reasoned examination of all human knowledge

Theology

The study of God that uses reason and divine revelation.

Comparing Philosophy, Theology, and Science

Philosophy and theology can cover abstract topics, unlike science. Philosophy and science do not rely on divine revelation, unlike theology.

Science

The study of measurable data of the natural world through observation and experimentation

Logic

A branch of philosophy that involves proper reasoning to seek truth. It uses terms and premises to reach a conclusion

Principle of Non-Contradiction

Something cannot be true and false at the same time and in the same way.

Principle of Sufficient Reason

Every effect must have an adequate cause to explain it

Faith and Reason

According to the Catholic paradigm, these two things do not contradict and can work together to seek truth.

Scientism (definition)

The claim that one should only believe what can be scientifically proven.

Errors of Scientism

This view is self-contradictory since it cannot be scientifically proven. Science is limited to the natural, observable world, not abstract values such as meaning/purpose/happiness, right/wrong, God, etc.

Evangelization (definition)

To spread/witness the good news of the Gospel to others through word or deed without force or coercion.

Universal call to evangelization

All Catholics are called to spread/witness the Gospel according to their own capacity since 1) Christ commands it (see Mt. 28: 18-20, etc), 2) love of neighbor requires it, and 3) the Church relies on it for survival.

Apologetics vs. Evangelization

Apologetics is a part of evangelization yet evangelization is not limited to a rational defense of the Faith

Is Evangelization Harmful?

The Church teaches the possibility of people of other faiths to be saved, not probability. This means that evangelization is still necessary and good since Christ and His Church are the surest path to salvation

Effective Evangelization

1) Pray to God for guidance, 2) Properly learn/live the Faith, 3) Be humble, 4) Use the socratic method, 5) Establish common ground, 6) Teach the truth in charity.