Toward Contextualized Apologetics

Abstract

Apologetics is frequently rejected as irrelevant or even counterproductive in non-Western contexts. While it is true that apologetics, as it has been conducted in the past, is generally identified with Western theology, the author suggests that, properly construed, apologetics is unavoidable and that developing an informed and culturally sensitive apologetic is an indispensable task for the non-Western church. A crucial distinction is made between transcultural apologetics and culture-specific (contextualized) apologetics. The article concludes by suggesting in general terms the shape a contextualized apologetic for contemporary Japan might take.