Christian Apologetics

Apologetics is the reasoned defense of Christian beliefs and doctrine. Derived from the Greek word "apologia," which was once associated with defense in the classical Greek legal system, apologetics has evolved as a vital aspect of the Christian religion. Some key topics within Christian apologetics include arguments for the existence of God, evidence for the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and responses to the problem of evil.

Christian apologists dedicate themselves to providing arguments or explanations that both defend and promote the Christian message, often integrating Scripture, philosophy, history, and other fields into their explanations. The Apostle Peter, for instance, underscored the importance of being ever-ready to offer a defense, or "apologia," for one's faith (1 Peter 3:15). Through this blending of faith and reason, apologetics seeks to eliminate any perceived gaps between spiritual convictions and intellectual rigor, presenting Christianity in a manner that is both logical and compelling.

Biola University, particularly through its Talbot School of Theology, has been a hub for the study and dissemination of apologetic thought, featuring several renowned professors and scholars:

• Dr. William Lane Craig: Renowned Christian philosopher and apologist, he is best known for his work on the Kalam Cosmological Argument for God's existence. Dr. Craig has written multiple books and debated numerous scholars on the topics related to the existence of God and the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• Dr. J.P. Moreland: A distinguished professor of philosophy, he is a prolific author and speaker, known for his works on the intersection of Christianity and the philosophy of the mind.
• Dr. Sean McDowell: An accomplished author and speaker, he has written, co-written, or edited more than 20 books on various apologetics topics. He's particularly known for his outreach to young people and his work on Christian sexual ethics.
• Dr. Craig Hazen: The founder and director of Biola’s master's programs in Christian apologetics and in science and religion, he is an acclaimed author and speaker on key apologetics topics.

• Dr. Scott Smith: An accomplished educator, scholar and author, he is concerned with challenging the “constructivist” view and arguing instead that we can have knowledge in ethics, religion and other areas including the sciences. Additionally, he has written on human dignity, the moral argument for God's existence, progressive Christians and the emergent church, and the need to live in the fullness of Jesus.

Be equipped to answer why you believe what you believe and make the case for faith in Jesus. You’ll gain a rational understanding of topics like atonement, the resurrection and ethics, and answers to questions like why God allows evil.

Students who graduate with a degree in Christian Apologetics can pursue roles in church ministry, as writers, missionaries, evangelists, teachers, pastors.

Our faculty, including Sean McDowell, J.P. Moreland, Craig Hazen and others, are widely considered to be leading experts in the field. In the 20 years since Talbot's apologetics program was established, our unique curriculum has remained a distinguishing factor for students.