We are living in a decidedly postmodern age. This does not mean the fundamentals of our faith must change to please culture, but it does mean that unless Christians change the way we communicate the unchanging Gospel, our mission to reach the lost will fail. D. Rodriguez makes this same point in his recent critique of Brian McLaren’s book, "A New Kind of Christian" To … [Read more...]
Frustrated Apologists
It can be frustrating talking about issues of apologetics with someone who does not believe. If not careful, the apologist can feel as if the source of his or her frustration is the person. This can lead to guilt rooted in the sense that the apologist cares more about arguments of apologetics than loving the person. Have you ever felt that way? I know I have. However, I … [Read more...]
A Brief Word on Apologetic Discretion
(This post originally appeared this time last year on Another Ascending Lark. Beach Reach, the trip that I mention in this post, is a trip where 700-ish Christians from colleges all over Texas head down to South Padre Island for spring break to minister and share the Gospel with 40,000+ unbelievers. Our main ministries are via free island transportation and free pancake … [Read more...]
Introduction to Incarnational Apologetics
There are a lot of ways to “do” apologetics, but from my perspective far too many of the books and educational programs focus on winning debates rather than winning souls for Christ. My friend Paula summarizes this concern well when she writes, My concern is that apologetics, which is by nature a rational sharing of information, has become for some an emotional tool of … [Read more...]
Mature, gracious debater
Debates are inherently confrontational, right? The entire point is to make your opponent look like an idiot by puffing yourself up, isn't it? Debates certainly do serve a different purpose than run-of-the-mill conversations, but even within a debate setting it is certainly possible to engage in a reasoned and compelling defence of one's own perspective without denigrating one's … [Read more...]
Defend Without Getting Defensive
Ever get uncomfortable listening to opposing views? Some believers get defensive and feel pressure to defend the entire Christian worldview when confronted with one objection to the faith! I’m suggesting we reduce this pressure by employing a modest goal and a simple strategy: Get the skeptic thinking by asking sincere, but strategic questions. … [Read more...]
Dialogue with a gay activist
The dialogue recorded at this link is a fabulous example of doing many things right in a conversation with somebody you disagree with. Peter Kreeft was taking a class that was being taught by a homosexual activist. Kreeft hoped to chat with his professor (whom he calls "Art") about his views, striving to open and clarify their respective views on the subject. Kreeft is right to … [Read more...]
Apologetics and Retaliation
Recently I have been thinking about retaliation and it's connection to apologetics. If you are talking with someone who is hostile, aggressive, or uncivil, what does one do? It's rare when I write on apologetics that 1 Peter 3:15-16 doesn't come up, and it is going to do so again. Specifically, it is at the end of verse 15 that I wish to highlight: 15 But in your hearts honor … [Read more...]
Piers Morgan and Rick Warren
Here's an interesting little snippet of an interview between Piers Morgan and Rick Warren on the Bible's teachings about homosexuality and whether it should be "amended" (not clear what that means). I found a couple of things interesting. Morgan is right to observe that these conversations need to be respectful and that they have a habit of turning poisonous. He would seem to … [Read more...]
Getting People Into Apologetics: It Starts With You
If you are a Christian and you are reading this blog, you probably have some degree of interest in apologetics. You may be getting your feet wet, getting your masters in apologetics, or somewhere in between. No matter where you are at in your study of apologetics, hopefully you find it incredibly rewarding and empowering to study the robust defense of the Christian faith. I … [Read more...]