The Greek word apologia means "to give a reasoned defense for what you believe to be true." It is used 19 times in the new Testament. 1 Peter 3:15 (Amplified) is one such instance.

"But in your hearts set Christ apart as holy [and acknowledge Him] as Lord. Always be ready to give a logical defense (apologia) to anyone who asks you to account for the hope that is in you, but do it courteously and respectfully"

We, as followers of Christ, are mandated to defend our faith in every area. This section is dedicated to answering the questions of many as to the authenticity of our faith as Christians. Though it will not give detailed answers, it will attempt to convey some core truths about Christianity.

Is the Bible the only book containing truth?

The Bible does not claim to be the only book that contains truth. But it does claim that it is all truth for every scripture is God breathed… “All Scripture is God-breathed...”(2nd timothy 3:16) and God cannot lie…” which God, who cannot lie..” (Titus 1:2). There are many philosophical books and spiritual books from other religions which contain certain truths that are also found in the Bible. However, these books contradict the Bible in other claims of truth. If the Bible is entirely true, then it follows that the others cannot have the entire truth as this would be a contradiction of truth.

Essentially, all truth is only contained in God Himself. Jesus Christ said, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:16). And in (John 10:30) He says, “I and the Father are one.” Jesus Christ is God and He is “The Truth”.

Jesus Christ not only states His truth in the Bible, but He demonstrates it. The Word of God (the Bible) says that He (God) came in flesh (Jesus Christ) to die on a cross (demonstrating His perfect love) to pay the penalty for the sins of all of mankind (satisfying His perfect justice). His justice demanded payment for sins, and His love turned around and paid that penalty. Thus He demonstrated two of His most powerful truths, which are seemingly contradictory, on the cross -- perfect love and perfect justice.

Since other religions and philosophical books do not present Jesus Christ as “The Truth” it follows that they cannot contain the whole truth. If they do not contain the whole truth -- Jesus Christ -- it follows that they do not know “The Way”, hence they can have no “Life” and so cannot lead anyone into repentance unto forgiveness of sins, reconciliation with the God the Father, and everlasting life.

Since Jesus is “The Truth” and the Bible is “His word”, then it is only the Bible that we can uphold as His recorded truth to which we must hold ourselves and others accountable.