Journal: Journal of Ministry and Theology
Volume: JMAT 17:1 (Spring 2013)
Article: The Usefulness Of Archeology For Apologetics
Author: Kenneth M. Gardoski

JMAT 17:1 (Spring 2013) p. 79

The Usefulness Of Archeology For Apologetics

Kenneth Gardoski

Associate Professor of Systematic Theology
Baptist Bible Seminary
Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania

Introduction

We use the term “silver bullet” for a simple and seemingly magical solution to a complex problem.1 Its origins are the folklore belief that a silver bullet was the only weapon that could kill a werewolf. While Christian apologists might wish for a silver bullet argument—one that would easily and almost magically kill all attacks against the faith, such an argument does not exist. There are many useful and compelling arguments from a range of disciplines like science and philosophy; however, with their usefulness come unavoidable limitations. So it is with the use of archeology in apologetics. Archeology is useful in a powerful way, and yet it has its definite limitations.

The purpose of this paper is to explore the usefulness of archeology for apologetics while at the same time pointing out its limitations. I will not deal extensively with the archeological evidence for the Christian faith.2 Instead, I will present just a few representative examples to make this point: while archeology is limited and therefore not a silver bullet that can accomplish all we could wish for it, it still performs an important and valuable task related to the word of God and the Christian faith.

JMAT 17:1 (Spring 2013) p. 80

Defining Apologetics

Apologetics is the defense of the Christian faith. The word comes from the Greek ἀπολογία, meaning “a speech of defense.”3 The verb form, ἀπολογέομαι, means to “speak in one’s own defense” or “defend oneself.”4 The terms were used for the formal defense of legal proceedings. NT occurrences of these words suggest a couple of nuances for the Christian’s defense. First, the Christian needs to defend his faith from false charges brought against it. For example, Paul defended himself before the Roman authorities against the false charges of the Jews (e.g., Acts 25:7–8; 26:1–2). Second, this defense may also take a more positive tack. Peter describes the Christian’s defense as giving “an account for the hope that is in [him]” (λόγον περὶ τῆς ἐν ὑμῖν ἐλπίδις, 1 Pet 3:15).You must have a subscription and be logged in to read the entire article.
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