Developing an Apologetics Ministry at LifePoint Church Indy in Indianapolis, Indiana

Abstract

This project was designed to develop a curriculum for apologetic training at LifePoint Church Indy (LPCI) in Indianapolis, Indiana, that allowed members and attenders to be trained in apologetics and to be more confident and comfortable in gospel encounters. The curriculum was delivered over a twenty-six week course that included significant reading by the participants along with small group participation and discussion.

Chapter 1 introduces the ministry context at LPCI, along with the rationale, purpose, goals, research methodologies, definition, and delimitations of the project. Chapter 2 develops the biblical and theological basis for apologetics in the local church setting. Significant to the design and implementation of the curriculum are five passages of Scripture. Together, these passages form the scriptural basis for training and real life use of apologetics. Chapter 3 addresses the need for training in apologetics, addressing the concepts of biblical worldview development, apologetic methodologies, the need for fair and ethical treatment of skeptics and non-believers, and the application of sound reasoning. Chapter 4 lays out the curriculum and lesson plans for the implementation of that curriculum. Chapter 5 concludes with an evaluation of the project, including its strengths and weaknesses and how it will be further developed based on that evaluation.