ABSTRACT
The Danish word Apologie derives from the Greek ἀπολογία, meaning “a speech in defense,” which in the Greek legal system often functioned as an explanation in reply to charges. In its most general sense, the term “apology” refers to a defense made in speech or writing,1 while “apologetics” refers specifically to that branch of theology which deals with the intellectual defense of Christianity. Acts 26:2 presents St. Paul as using the word ἀπολογία in making his “defense,” and it is also used in 1 Peter 3:15, where Christians are exhorted always to be ready to make a “defense” to anyone who demands it for the hope that is within them.
