The church has historically categorized its teaching into three categories:

1. Theology (what we believe)
2. Ethics (how we behave)
3. Apologetics (why we believe)

There are two areas of focus for apologetics: both (1) inside and (2) outside the church. Apologetics is done outside the church to defend the faith (1 Pet 3:15). But it is also done inside the church to solidify faith (Luke 17:5). Both areas of ministry are important. The emphasis on Apologetics unfortunately tends to wax and wane according to the degree of persecution by the surrounding culture. When apologetics wanes, the church loses a valuable ministry inside the church to solidify faith and Christians fall prey to challenges to their faith.