Apologetics VS Expository Essays

Young christian authors, students, and even teachers can sometimes get confused about including their faith in their writing. Especially when told to write an expository essay.

Today I’m going to explain the difference between the two topics–and share some of my own ideas about it.

---

What is “Apologetics”?

The dictionary definition of apologetics is this:

“The branch of theology having to do with the defense or proofs of Christianity.”

So, in example…

• Doing a paper on why the Bible is trustworthy and historically accurate.
• Sharing why you are a christian to someone who challenges your belief.
• Writing a book about the obvious signs of a Creator compared to evolution.

Seems to me that apologetics is simply justifying your faith.

What is “Expository”?

Expository’s definition is…

“a setting forth of facts, ideas, explanations, etc.”

According to the dictionary, expository writing is just telling the truth. Telling facts. Telling perspective.

Here’s some possible expository essay topics:

• Why is slavery wrong?
• What does a healthy lifestyle look like?
• Is social media a good or bad thing?

Why It Matters

So…what do I think?

Brave Writer, a home school English curriculum, says this:

If you use the Bible and your personal convictions as your primary support [for expository essays], the only people who will be persuaded to your view are those who share the same beliefs.

When writing an expository essay, you’re trying to show your reader(s) your perspective and “set forth facts”. Brave writer claims that you shouldn’t use the Bible for a source when doing this.

But there is overwhelming proof that the Bible is a historically trustworthy book. It is just as verifiable, if not more than, as any ancient texts.

So I think that it’s valid to use a Bible verse or teaching to support your claim. However, you should also provide scientific facts and views that your secular readers will understand and trust.

---

In conclusion, expository essays and apologetics are definitely different areas of writing…but referencing the Bible in your expository writing is allowed and justified.

And these are just my personal opinions. If you feel differently about including Christianity in your essays, then fine.

Thanks for reading, though, and stay tuned for more posts on faith, stories, books, and more.