Apologetics 315 Podcast

160 - The Deity of Christ with Robert Bowman

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 11:35:53 +0000

🎙️ Show Notes: The Deity of Christ with Robert BowmanThis is a summary of the Apologetics 315 podcast episode featuring an interview with Rob Bowman. Bowman is the president of the Institute for Religious Research (IRR) in Cedar Springs, Michigan, and the author or co-author of 15 books on topics including apologetics, Christology, and the Trinity.This conversation, hosted by Brian Auten and Chad Gross , explores the evidence for the deity of Christ and how believers can be equipped to explain this core doctrine.🔑 Key Takeaways & Topics

Guest Information: Rob Bowman is the president of the Institute for Religious Research (IRR) and has written or co-authored 15 books, including works on Christology and the Trinity.
Book Focus: The discussion is based on two of Bowman's books:
- Putting Jesus in His Place: The Case for the Deity of Christ
- The Incarnate Christ and His Critics, a Biblical Defense
The Deity of Christ: The hosts note that this is a critical topic. Bowman emphasizes that the goal for Christians is to have a "real tool" to use in conversations to explain why the New Testament teaches Jesus was God incarnate.

🤔 Addressing Skepticism: Did Jesus Explicitly Claim to Be God?A common skeptical question is why Jesus never explicitly said, "I am God". Bowman responds by noting that Jesus also avoided making other direct claims, such as:

He never claimed to be Michael the Archangel or an angel of any sort.
He generally avoided saying, "I am the Messiah".
His favorite title for himself, "the Son of Man," is never used by him in a first-person singular claim ("I am the Son of Man").

Bowman suggests that Jesus' reticence was because his identity needed to be shown, not just told. He let his words and deeds "add up in people's minds" so that the full picture would be clear after his resurrection. Critics often commit the fallacy of appealing to silence (carpeting what the Bible doesn't say) instead of dealing with what the texts do say.

🚨 Theological Confusion in the ChurchBowman highlights a concerning issue: how many evangelical Christians are actually confused about who Jesus is, with many believing he is a created being. The main reason for this lack of understanding is a serious lack of theological education in congregations. Many pastors avoid "stronger teaching" that challenges people's minds , but a lack of sound doctrine makes Christians vulnerable to "any wind of false doctrine" and skepticism.

🙏 The Apologetic Role of Christ's DivinityThe doctrine of Christ's divinity plays a crucial role:

Personal Enrichment: Understanding Jesus' person and work is meant to enhance and enrich a Christian's personal relationship with Him, fostering appreciation and love for Christ.
Honoring Jesus: Jesus is worthy of the same honor that is given to God the Father (John 5:23).
Answering Skepticism: The evidence of Jesus' resurrection is "overwhelming historical evidence" that validates his claims and the claims of the early church. The incarnation shows that God is not distant, as he got involved in the world to "feel the pain of the world".

🖐️ The HANDS Acronym: A Case for Christ's DeityBowman and his co-author, Ed Komoszewski , created the HANDS acronym as an effective and easy-to-remember way to categorize the lines of argument for the deity of Christ found in the New Testament.

H - HonorsJesus receives divine honors such as worship, prayer (e.g., Maranatha, "Oh, Lord, come," a prayer used by the first Jewish Christians in Aramaic ), and glory. Jesus commanded disciples to love him more than their parents, which in an honor/shame culture, puts him at the level of God.

A - AttributesJesus possesses divine attributes like being eternal (not a created being) and omniscience (knowing the hearts of people to judge them fairly ). He also exhibits human attributes in the Incarnation.

N - NamesJesus is given divine names such as God (sparingly, but used) , Lord (in the context of the Old Testament name Yahweh/Jehovah) , Savior, and the First and the Last. Thomas called Jesus "my Lord and my God" after the resurrection (John 20:28).

D - DeedsJesus performs divine deeds that only God can do. These include: Creation (all things came into being through him) , Forgiving sins on his own prerogative (not merely as a delegate) , Casting out demons and healing with effortless, direct authority, unlike the apostles who did so in the name of Jesus Christ , and Judging humanity at the end of the age.

S - Seat of God's ThroneJesus sits at the right hand of God the Father, ruling over all creation from the very throne room of God. This is considered a "crowning point" in the overall case.The cumulative weight of all five points is what makes the case powerful, arguing that Jesus must be God, as no one else is permitted to do all these things. These points are not superimposed, but are found coordinated together in single passages of scripture, such as Matthew 28:16-20, John 1:1-18, and Colossians 1:12-20.

🔗 Connect with Robert Bowman

Personal Author Website: robertboman.net
Ministry Website (IRR): IRR.org for hundreds of free articles on Christianity and other religions

159 - Lazy Approach to Evangelism with Eric Hernandez

Sat, 01 Nov 2025 13:26:06 +0000

Summary:
In this episode, Brian and Chad talk with Christian apologist and evangelist **Eric Hernandez** about his book *The Lazy Approach to Evangelism: A Simple Guide for Conversing with Non-Believers*. Eric discusses how evangelism and apologetics intersect, why every believer is called to defend the faith, and how to engage with skeptics effectively and biblically.

Key Topics Covered:
* Eric’s philosophy of evangelism and how apologetics fits into it
* The danger of emotion-based evangelism vs. truth-based evangelism
* Understanding “strongholds” (2 Corinthians 10) as false ideas that block people from knowing God
* Identifying and addressing major worldviews: postmodernism, scientism, and naturalism
* Paul’s example of adapting to the audience (1 Corinthians 9:20–23)
* “The Lazy Approach”: asking the right questions instead of having all the right answers
* The importance of theological triage—keeping the main thing the main thing
* Understanding the **burden of proof**, **rebuttals vs. refutations**, and **logical fallacies**
* Using Colossians 4:5–6 as a biblical foundation for gospel conversations
* How Jesus modeled effective apologetics with both compassion and precision
* Encouragement for Christians who feel intimidated by evangelism or apologetics
* Why apologetics isn’t optional—it’s commanded and part of loving God with all your mind

Quotes:
“If you’re not engaging in apologetics, you are in rebellious disobedience to the Word of God.” – Eric Hernandez
 “You don’t need to know all the right answers; you need to learn how to ask the right questions.”
 “Evangelism isn’t about winning arguments—it’s about tearing down strongholds.”

Mentioned in This Episode:
* *The Lazy Approach to Evangelism* by Eric Hernandez
* Previous Apologetics315 episode: *Eric Hernandez on the Soul*
* Greg Koukl – *Tactics: A Game Plan for Discussing Your Christian Convictions*
* J. Gresham Machen on false ideas as the greatest obstacles to the gospel
* 1 Peter 3:15; 2 Corinthians 10:4–5; Colossians 4:5–6

Resources:
* Book: *~[The Lazy Approach to Evangelism on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/)~*
* Eric Hernandez’s YouTube Channel: ~[Eric Hernandez Ministries]
* Support Eric’s Ministry: Details and updates available via his upcoming newsletter and website relaunch

Takeaway: 
Apologetics isn’t for specialists—it’s for every Christian. The “lazy” approach isn’t about being passive; it’s about being wise. Ask questions, listen well, keep the main thing the main thing, and let truth do the heavy lifting.

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158 - Braxton Hunter and Online Apologetics

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 16:00:40 +0000

Guest: Braxton Hunter — President of Trinity College & Seminary, evangelist, apologist, host of Trinity Radio, debate partner with leading atheists including Matt Dillahunty and Dan Barker.
Topics Covered

Braxton’s background and conversion
• Son of a megachurch pastor, early ministry exposure
• Initial desire to be a rock musician before surrendering to ministry
• Seminary training, pastoral and itinerant evangelistic ministry
Shift toward apologetics
• Need to answer skeptics in evangelism contexts
• Classical apologetics and the “two-step” method (God → Christ)
Family and priorities
• Marriage, parenting teenage daughters
• Intentional discipleship at home — prioritizing family over platform
Origins and growth of Trinity Radio
• Started as a simple audio response blog
• Growth through debates (Dillahunty, Barker), collaboration with other creators
• Unique chemistry with Jonathan Pritchett (“good cop / blunt cop” dynamic)
The “Core Facts” initiative for churches
• A two-day on-site training weekend using Braxton’s book Core Facts
• Designed for ordinary church members to gain confidence and competence
• Goal: launch sustainable apologetics groups inside local churches
Approach to debate & online engagement
• Winsome, pastoral tone—credible & charitable without compromise
• “Win the person, not just the argument”
• Strategic preparation and use of AI/thumbnails/titles for online ministry
• Guidance for aspiring Christian content creators
Behind the scenes of major debates
• 8-month preparation for Matt Dillahunty debate
• Note-taking strategy & rehearsing responses
• Intentionally creating tone and rapport without ceding substance

Referenced Resources
Core Facts — Braxton Hunter (2nd edition)
Trinity Radio (YouTube / Podcast)
“Five Views on Apologetics” — Zondervan
TalkAboutDoubts.org — pastoral/apologetic care for doubters

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157 - Behold the Man with Peter S Williams

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 15:00:12 +0000

Summary
In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross welcome back philosopher and author **Peter S. Williams** to discuss his book, *Behold the Man: Essays on the Historical Jesus*. This engaging conversation explores the intersection of worldview, epistemology, and historical scholarship in the search for the real Jesus.

Topics Covered:

The Structure and Purpose of Behold the Man A collection of revised essays exploring various historical, philosophical, and theological dimensions of Jesus.

Worldviews and Historical Inquiry How modernism, postmodernism, and the emerging metamodern perspective affect approaches to the historical Jesus.
Epistemology and Openness to Evidence Why the worldview and theory of knowledge you bring impacts whether you can honestly assess historical claims about Jesus.
An Early High Christology in James Peter argues for early Christian belief in Jesus’ divinity based on linguistic and contextual clues in the Epistle of James.
Dating the Gospels – Especially John Examination of internal and external evidence supporting the traditional dating of the Fourth Gospel and its authorship by the Apostle John.
Miracles and the Resurrection Responding to philosophical objections to miracles, with particular focus on David Hume and the resurrection as a historically reasonable belief.
Minimal Facts vs. Maximal Data Approaches Comparison between Gary Habermas’s minimal facts method and broader evidential strategies in defending the resurrection.
Responding to UFO and Ancient Alien Theories Why Christian apologists should engage with these alternative explanations, and how to challenge them both philosophically and scientifically.
Emotional Barriers to Belief How personal experience and discomfort with change often block serious consideration of evidence—and how to engage that pastorally.
The Role of Apologetics in Spiritual Formation Why apologetics is a signpost, not a substitute, for commitment to Christ. Knowing *about* Jesus is not the same as *following* Him.

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156 - Old Testament Violence with Christopher Cloos

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 06:00:10 +0000

Summary
Chad Gross interviews Dr. Christopher Cloos about the challenging Old Testament violence texts and his recent debate with theologian Randal Rauser. They explore the complexities of interpreting these texts, the role of moral intuition, and the contrasting views of covenant virtue ethics and providential errancy theory.
The conversation delves into how moral intuitions can inform biblical interpretation while also addressing the potential pitfalls of subjectivity in understanding scripture.
They explore how moral intuition can be used to interpret scripture, the implications of difficult passages, and the importance of engaging with differing views charitably. The conversation also highlights resources for further learning in this area.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Apologetics and Old Testament Violence
03:02 Dr. Cloos’ Background and Interest in Old Testament Texts
06:06 Debate Overview: Rauser vs. Cloos on Biblical Violence
08:47 Understanding Moral Intuition in Biblical Interpretation
11:55 Covenant Virtue Ethics vs. Providential Errancy Theory
14:54 The Role of Moral Intuition in Exegesis
17:53 Concerns About Subjectivity in Interpretation
20:50 Using Jesus as a Tool for Interpretation
25:58 Epistemic Circularity and Moral Intuition
32:28 Covenant Virtue Ethics and Difficult Texts
40:02 The Role of Hyperbole in Ancient Texts
48:10 Engaging with Different Views Charitably
53:42 Resources for Further Learning
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155 - Virtue and Endurance with Sabrina Little

Sat, 24 May 2025 19:06:46 +0000

Summary

Brian Auten interviews ultra runner and philosopher Sabrina B. Little. They explore the intersection of endurance sports and ethics, discussing how running can cultivate virtue, expose vice, and serve as a training ground for character development.
Sabrina shares her journey from philosophy to ultra running, emphasizing the importance of discipline and habit in forming virtues. The conversation delves into the complexities of virtue and vice, the role of sports in moral formation, and the life lessons learned through endurance racing.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Endurance and Ethics
02:07 Sabrina's Journey: From Philosophy to Ultra Running
08:44 Virtue Development Through Endurance Sports
15:16 The Spectrum of Virtue and Vice
19:09 Habit, Discipline, and Character Formation
23:00 Life Lessons from Endurance Racing
25:03 Training for Life: The Christian Race
28:11 Spiritual Disciplines: The Workout for Character
30:29 Lessons from the Desert Fathers
32:41 Understanding Intransigence in Perseverance
36:01 The Balance of Perseverance and Prudence
40:57 Navigating Competitiveness in Athletics
45:15 Character Development Beyond Sports
46:46 Influential Thinkers and Resources

Sabrina Little’s Book:
The Examined Run: Why Good People Make Better Runners
https://www.amazon.com/Examined-Run-People-Better-Runners/dp/0197678696

https://www.sabrinalittle.com
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154 - Young Earth with Marcus Ross

Sat, 17 May 2025 18:34:39 +0000

Summary
In this episode of the Apologetics 315 podcast, hosts Brian Auten and Chad Gross speak with Dr. Marcus Ross, a prominent figure in the Young Earth Creationism debate.
They explore Dr. Ross's background, his journey in paleontology, and the challenges faced by Young Earth Creationists. The conversation delves into the historical context of Young Earth Creationism, the evidence supporting it, and the importance of open dialogue in understanding differing perspectives on creation and evolution.

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Apologetics 315 Podcast
08:30 - Interview with Dr. Marcus Ross
17:46 - Dr. Ross's Background and Education
18:15 - Understanding Young Earth Creationism
35:02 - Evidence for Young Earth Creationism
39:17 - The Dynamics of Scientific Discourse
41:13 - Exploring Radioactive Dating and Young Earth Hypotheses
53:31 - Young Earth Creationism and Scientific Methodology
58:30 - Interpreting the Fossil Record Through a Young Earth Lens
01:11:01 - Dinosaurs and the Young Earth Perspective
01:16:43 - Punctuated Equilibrium and Paleontology
01:19:07 - Interpreting Data and Scriptural Context
01:23:21 - The Starting Point of Interpretation
01:30:46 - The Challenge of Young Earth Creationism
01:37:51 - Exploring Views on Creation and Salvation
01:44:10 - Collaboration Between Young and Old Earth Creationists
01:52:15 - Resources for Young Earth Creationism
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153 - Case Files with Jimmy and J Warner Wallace

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 19:15:19 +0000

Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Apologetics 315 Podcast, hosts Brian Auten and Chad Gross welcome back J. Warner Wallace and his son Jimmy Wallace to discuss their new graphic novel, 'Case Files: Murder and Meaning.'

The conversation explores their journey into comic books, the collaborative process of creating a graphic novel, and the themes of identity and value within the context of law enforcement. They also discuss the challenges of balancing Christian and secular perspectives in storytelling, aiming to create a narrative that resonates with a diverse audience.

In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of identity, particularly within the context of law enforcement and the creative process behind their graphic novel. They discuss the importance of apologetics in storytelling, the challenges of character development, and the impact of fiction on moral understanding. The dialogue also touches on the future of their series and the hope of reaching both Christian and non-Christian audiences through their work.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests
03:09 The Journey into Comic Books
05:49 Creating a Graphic Novel: The Collaboration
09:11 Exploring Themes of Identity and Value
11:50 Balancing Christian and Secular Perspectives
14:54 The Challenges of Writing for Diverse Audiences
20:27 Struggles of Identity in Law Enforcement
22:28 The Role of Apologetics in Fiction
24:40 Creative Process in Graphic Novels
26:48 Character Development and Artistic Vision
30:11 Exploring Meaning in Life and Death
34:45 The Impact of Fiction on Moral Development
38:41 Future Directions for the Series

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152 - Rational Faith - part 1

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 09:44:18 +0000

Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Apologetics 315 podcast, hosts Brian Auten and Chad Gross discuss the book “Rational Faith” by Stephen T. Davis. They explore the unique approach Davis takes in defending Christianity, emphasizing humility in apologetics and the rational basis for faith. The conversation covers various themes including theistic evolution, the reliability of the Gospels, and arguments for the resurrection of Jesus. The hosts appreciate Davis's ability to present complex ideas in an accessible manner, making a case for Christianity that is both thoughtful and engaging.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:48 Overview of “Rational Faith” by Stephen T. Davis
02:59 Unique Approach to Apologetics
06:10 Humility in Apologetics
09:01 Theistic Evolution and Christianity
11:56 Faith and Reason in Christianity
15:05 Cosmological Arguments for God's Existence
17:52 The Reliability of the Gospels
21:03 The Resurrection of Jesus
34:42 Conclusion and Future Discussions
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151 - Clear Thinking with Ken Samples

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 12:28:02 +0000

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Apologetics 315 podcast, hosts Brian Auten and Chad Gross welcome Professor Ken Samples to discuss his new book, 'Clear Thinking in a Messy World.' The conversation explores the intersection of logic, critical thinking, and the Christian worldview, emphasizing the importance of discernment and understanding cognitive biases.

The hosts and Ken delve into the significance of Jesus as a logician and thinker, the role of science and philosophy in achieving objectivity, and the necessity of careful thinking in today's information-saturated environment. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the significance of logic and critical thinking, emphasizing their role as tools for clearer thinking and better work across various fields.

They discuss the importance of understanding logical fallacies while maintaining a charitable approach in discussions. The conversation also highlights the necessity of character development in education, the value of revisiting great books, and the idea of the church functioning as a school for intellectual growth. Practical steps for fostering a more intellectually engaging church environment are shared, along with insights on mastering topics through worldview thinking and utilizing resources effectively for learning.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
03:30 The Significance of Logic in Christianity
09:55 Jesus as a Logician and Thinker
16:08 The Importance of Discernment in a Messy World
21:58 Understanding Cognitive Biases
29:56 The Role of Science and Philosophy in Objectivity
37:33 The Power of Logic and Critical Thinking
40:08 Understanding Logical Fallacies
48:37 The Importance of Character in Education
49:05 Books That Shape the Mind
56:14 The Church as a School
01:02:58 Mastering a Topic Through Worldview Thinking
01:09:11 Utilizing the Book for Learning
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150 - Happy Lies & New Thought with Melissa Dougherty

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 09:26:17 +0000

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Brian and Chad welcome Melissa Dougherty, author and apologist, to discuss the influence of the New Thought movement on modern culture and Christianity. Melissa shares insights from her book, explaining how New Thought has infiltrated self-help teachings, Word of Faith theology, and broader church beliefs. She also explores its historical roots and the challenges of recognizing and addressing these ideas in Christian circles.

Key Topics Discussed:
1. Introduction to New Thought
Overview of New Thought as a movement distinct from New Age beliefs.
How it has subtly shaped modern self-help, prosperity gospel, and even mainstream Christian teachings.

2. The Influence of New Thought in Popular Culture
Connections to figures like Oprah Winfrey and self-help gurus.
The role of books like Think and Grow Rich in spreading New Thought principles.
Influence on multi-level marketing (MLM) mindset and motivation tactics.

3. Theological Implications and Concerns
How New Thought distorts biblical concepts such as faith, prayer, and God's sovereignty.
The impact on Word of Faith theology and the prosperity gospel.
The dangers of "manifesting" and the law of attraction from a biblical perspective.

4. Engaging with Those Influenced by New Thought
Melissa’s research approach, including attending Unity churches and speaking with adherents.
The importance of asking thoughtful questions rather than attacking beliefs.
Encouraging discernment and deeper biblical study to counteract misleading teachings.

5. Practical Steps for Listeners
How to recognize New Thought influence in Christian teaching.
Resources for deeper study, including Melissa’s book and other apologetics materials.
Encouragement to develop strong hermeneutics and biblical literacy.

Quotable Moments:
"New Thought isn’t New Age—it’s something much sneakier because it uses Christian language."
"If the faith cure movement, Pentecostalism, and New Thought had a baby, it would be the Word of Faith movement."
"We need to understand scripture in context, rather than cherry-picking verses to fit our desires."

Resources Mentioned:

Happy Lies: How a Movement You Probably Never Heard of Shaped Our Self-Obsessed World by Melissa Dougherty

Melissa Dougherty’s YouTube Channel
Apologetics 315 Website: apologetics315.com
SpeakPipe for listener questions: speakpipe.com/apologetics315
Truthbomb Apologetics Blog: truthbomb.blogspot.com
Connect with Us:
Email: podcast@apologetics315.com
Leave a voice message: speakpipe.com/apologetics315
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You c

149 - January Cornucopia

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 15:24:12 +0000

Episode Summary:

In this first episode of 2025, Brian Auten and Chad Gross dive into a "Cornucopia" of topics, offering an eclectic mix of discussion points for anyone interested in apologetics, Christian living, and the new year ahead. The hosts share insights on their favorite apologetic arguments, explore the reliability of the New Testament, and provide encouragement for Christian parents. They also discuss Wesley Huff's recent debate and appearance on Joe Rogan's podcast, reflecting on lessons learned and the importance of humility and grace in apologetic engagement. The episode wraps up with reflections on God's will, advice for parents raising children in the faith, and plans for upcoming book discussions in the podcast.

Time Stamps:
00:00 – Introduction: Happy New Year from Brian and Chad! Overview of the "Cornucopia" episode.
02:31 – Quickfire Apologetics Questions: Favorite topics, arguments, and conversation starters.
09:31 – Favorite Argument to Explain: Resurrection vs. design vs. contingency.
14:24 – Key Question for Non-Believers: How to initiate meaningful faith conversations.
21:22 – Illustrating the Moral Argument: Using movie characters like the Joker to highlight objective morality.
26:05 – Content Creation vs. Artistry: Balancing authenticity with modern pressures of creating content.
40:35 – Wesley Huff's Joe Rogan Appearance: Reflections on debates, patience, and truth in apologetics.
54:43 – Book Club Announcement: Rational Faith by Stephen T. Davis – What to expect.
01:02:01 – Listener Question: What does "God's will" mean in different contexts?
01:13:56 – Encouragement for Christian Parents: When children stray from faith – lessons from Genesis.
01:21:16 – Closing Thoughts and Gratitude: Looking ahead to new episodes and topics.

Rational Faith by Stephen T. Davis: https://www.amazon.com/Rational-Faith-Philosophers-Defense-Christianity/dp/0830844740
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148 - Jesus Contradicted with Michael Licona

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 07:00:02 +0000

Summary
In this episode of the Apologetics 315 podcast, hosts Brian Auden and Chad Gross engage with Dr. Michael Licona, a prominent New Testament scholar, to discuss his latest book, 'Jesus Contradicted.' The conversation delves into the historical reliability of the Gospels, addressing the differences in accounts and how they can be understood within the context of ancient biography. Dr. Licona shares insights from his extensive research, emphasizing the importance of compositional devices used by ancient biographers and how these techniques can illuminate our understanding of the Gospels.

The discussion also explores various responses to Gospel differences, providing a nuanced perspective on the trustworthiness of biblical texts. They discuss the nature of inspiration and inerrancy, emphasizing that the differences in the Gospel accounts do not undermine the truth of Christianity. The dialogue highlights the importance of understanding the historical context and literary techniques employed in ancient writings, advocating for a more nuanced approach to biblical interpretation.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction of Michael Licona
01:44 Exploring Gospel Differences and Historical Reliability
08:43 Responses to Gospel Differences
13:26 Understanding the Genre of the Gospels
19:11 Compositional Devices in the Gospels
26:19 Exploring the Resurrection Accounts
30:08 Understanding Compositional Devices in Gospel Writing
34:55 The Nature of Inspiration and Inerrancy
43:35 Practical Approaches to Gospel Differences

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147 - The Jewish Messiah with Eric Chabot

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 20:30:07 +0000

Summary
In this episode of the Apologetics 315 Podcast, host Chad Gross interviews Eric Chabot about his essay, 'Does the Resurrection of Jesus Prove He is the Jewish Messiah?' The conversation explores Chabot's background, his work with Ratio Christi, and the significance of the resurrection in the context of Jewish messianic expectations. Chabot discusses the concept of the Messiah, the varied expectations of the Jewish people in the first century, and the challenges faced when discussing these topics with secular Jews. The episode culminates in Chabot's argument for how the resurrection of Jesus fulfills the role of the Messiah as outlined in the Old Testament. He discusses the role of Israel as a light to the nations and how Jesus fulfills this calling through his ministry and resurrection. He explores Jewish identity, common objections to Jesus as the Messiah, and the significance of the resurrection in proving Jesus' messianic claims. The discussion also delves into the interpretation of Isaiah 53 and the complexities of Jewish reactions to Jesus, emphasizing the need for understanding and dialogue. Eric concludes by recommending resources for further study on these topics.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Apologetics 315 Podcast
03:11 Interview with Eric Chabot: The Resurrection and the Messiah
09:38 Understanding the Concept of Messiah
13:52 Exploring First Century Messianic Expectations
19:17 Challenges in Conversations about the Messiah
23:55 Making the Case for Jesus as the Jewish Messiah
29:07 Israel's Calling and the Light to the Nations
32:16 Jewish Identity and Beliefs
34:38 Common Objections to Jesus as Messiah
37:25 Evidential Concerns and the Resurrection
41:31 Isaiah 53: The Messianic Debate
47:32 Understanding Jewish Reactions to Jesus
54:14 Resources for Further Study
================================
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146 - Is the New Testament Trustworthy with Ben Shaw

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 13:01:36 +0000

Summary
In this episode of the Apologetics 315 podcast, hosts Brian Auten and Chad Gross speak with Benjamin Shaw, a distinguished Christian apologist and author of Trustworthy: 13 Arguments for the Reliability of the New Testament.'The discussion covers Shaw's personal journey into apologetics, the importance of New Testament reliability, and the historical criteria that support it. Shaw emphasizes the cumulative approach to understanding the New Testament, the significance of the Gospels as Greco-Roman biographies, and the value of both Christian and non-Christian sources in establishing the reliability of the New Testament. The conversation also touches on the minimal facts approach to the resurrection and the mission of Core Apologetics to make apologetic resources more accessible to churches and believers.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates
05:46 Introducing Benjamin Shaw and His Work
06:14 Benjamin Shaw's Background and Journey
11:29 Lessons from Gary Habermas
14:52 Core Apologetics and Its Mission
15:50 Exploring New Testament Reliability
16:19 Historical Criteria for Reliability
21:53 Understanding Trustworthiness and Reliability
23:47 Cumulative Approach to Reliability
26:11 Gospels as Greco-Roman Biographies
30:02 Authorship and Its Importance
37:02 Non-Christian Sources and Their Value
41:49 Confidence in Early Sources
48:32 Persuasive Arguments for Reliability
54:39 Minimal Facts vs. Maximal Approach
58:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

================================
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145 - True Crime with J. Warner Wallace

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 20:00:03 +0000

Summary
In this conversation, Brian and Chad interview J. Warner Wallace, a former cold case detective turned Christian apologist and author. They discuss his new book, 'The Truth and True Crime: What Investigating Death Teaches Us About the Meaning of Life.'

The book explores the intersection of true crime and spirituality, focusing on 15 principles that lead to human flourishing. They delve into topics such as the three motivations behind every crime (money, sex, and power), the dangers of fame and power within the church, the fascination with true crime, and the relevance of the book for both believers and non-believers.

In this conversation, they discuss the themes of identity, suffering, and finding meaning in life. They explore how trauma can shatter our worldview and expectations, and how redefining our identity in Christ can help us flourish post-trauma. They also discuss the importance of having a narrative that includes the persisting self and the hope and reduced fear of dying that comes from a Christian worldview. Jim shares his personal struggle with redefining his identity after retiring as a police officer and offers insights on how to find true meaning and purpose in life.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview
03:54 Interview with J. Warner Wallace
09:06 The Dangers of Fame and Power Within the Church
11:26 Marriage and Identity
13:18 The Proximity Principle and Friendships
15:28 The Fascination with True Crime
18:05 Writing with Personal Interest and Creativity
21:53 Relevance for Believers and Non-Believers
23:23 Addressing Both Believers and Unbelievers
24:17 Redefining Identity in Christ: Finding Meaning and Purpose
26:13 Flourishing Post-Trauma: Rethinking Worldview and Expectations
29:06 The Power of a Christian Worldview: Hope and Reduced Fear of Dying
36:53 Finding True Meaning: Making Christ Known Through Our Lives
41:34 Navigating the Risk of Suffering: The Resources of the Christian Worldview

================================
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144 - A Case for the Soul with Eric Hernandez

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 08:10:22 +0000

Summary
In this conversation, Chad Gross interviews Eric Hernandez about the existence of the soul. They discuss the definition of the soul, the relationship between the mind and the brain, and the arguments against physicalism. Eric presents the case for substance dualism and argues that consciousness cannot be reduced to physical properties. They also touch on the panpsychist view of consciousness and its implications. The conversation delves into the philosophy of mind and the implications for atheism and theism. In this conversation, Eric Hernandez discusses the concept of the soul and argues against physicalism and in favor of substance dualism. He presents three arguments for the existence of the soul: identity through change, indivisibility of personhood, and the argument from free will. Hernandez emphasizes that if physicalism is true, determinism is also true, which would undermine moral responsibility and intellectual integrity. He recommends J.P. Moreland's books 'The Soul: How We Know It's Real and Why It Matters' and 'Body and Soul: Human Nature and the Crisis in Ethics' as resources for further study on the philosophy of mind and the soul.

Takeaways

The soul can be defined as an immaterial substance that possesses consciousness and animates the body.
Consciousness cannot be reduced to physical properties, and therefore physicalism is false.
Panpsychism suggests that consciousness is fundamental to reality and can arise under the right conditions.
The arguments surrounding consciousness and the soul have implications for atheism and theism.
The philosophy of mind is an important area of study for understanding the nature of consciousness. The concept of the soul is central to understanding human nature and consciousness.
Physicalism, the belief that everything is physical, cannot account for the existence of consciousness and free will.
Arguments for the existence of the soul include identity through change, indivisibility of personhood, and the argument from free will.
If physicalism is true, determinism is also true, which undermines moral responsibility and intellectual integrity.
Further study on the philosophy of mind and the soul can be pursued through books by J.P. Moreland.

Sound Bites
"I don't have a soul, but rather I am a soul and I have a body."
"If physicalism is true, consciousness can't exist."
"Why not just become a Christian? That's exactly the heart of the Christian worldview."
"Philosophy of mind is where it's at and where it's going to be."
"I am either an immaterial soul or an immaterial substance."
"I am not a purely physical object. I am a soul."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Movie Discussion
02:40 Interview with Eric Hernandez: The Existence of the Soul
09:30 Defining the Soul and Substance Dualism
19:27 Consciousness and the Mind-Brain Relationship
25:06 Objections to Dualism and the Panpsychist View
31:43 Justin Schieber's View on Consciousness
36:28 Moral Obligation and Implications for Atheism and Theism
37:28 Understanding the Concept of the Soul
39:26 Challenging Physicalism and Arguing for Substance Dualism
44:32 Three Arguments for the Existence of the Soul
50:02 The Implications of Determinism for Moral Responsibility and Intellectual Integrity
58:01 Recommended Resources for Further Study on the Soul

================================
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143 - STR Outposts with Robby Lashua

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 05:00:06 +0000

Summary
Robbie Lashua discusses the Stand to Reason (STR) Outposts initiative, its purpose, and the process of starting one at a local church. He shares his journey of getting involved with STR and his role as the outpost coordinator. The conversation also covers the flexibility of outposts, the target audience, and the use of STRU courses for small group discussions. Robbie is interviewed about STR's Outpost program, which equips local churches with apologetics resources. The program allows flexibility for churches to use other materials but requires adherence to STR's mission statement. Outposts are not meant to teach doctrinal distinctives, and the local church is responsible for indoctrinating its members. Outpost directors have access to resources and support from STR for managing difficult personalities and theological issues. The program has seen significant growth and is open to churches of all sizes.

https://www.str.org/outposts

Takeaways

STR Outposts provide small group curriculum for training lay people in apologetics within local churches.
The target audience for STR Outposts is lay people in the church who are not equipped to compete in the marketplace of ideas and culture.
The use of STRU courses and small group discussions makes apologetics training more accessible and digestible for lay people in the church. STR's Outpost program equips local churches with apologetics resources and allows flexibility in using other materials.
Outposts are not meant to teach doctrinal distinctives, and the responsibility for indoctrinating members lies with the local church.
Outpost directors have access to resources and support from STR for managing difficult personalities and theological issues.
The program has seen significant growth and is open to churches of all sizes.

Chapters
00:00 The Purpose of STR Outposts
03:16 Starting an STR Outpost at Your Church
06:00 Flexibility and Target Audience of STR Outposts
22:33 Equipping Local Churches with Apologetics Resources
26:24 Navigating Doctrinal Distinctives and Flexibility in Apologetics
38:37 Support and Resources for Outpost Directors
42:26 Growth and Inclusivity of the Outpost Program

================================
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142 - Debate Teacher Reacts - Nate Sala

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 05:00:04 +0000

Summary
Nate Sala shares his journey from leaving the church to becoming a Christian, his ministry Wise Disciple, and his insights on debate and persuasion. He discusses the importance of objectivity in debate analysis and the criteria for judging debates. The conversation covers various aspects of debate preparation, styles, and strategies, as well as the role of emotion and rhetoric in debates. It also delves into the significance of cross-examination and the art of debate, along with the impact of personal biases and emotional connections in the context of debates. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the host's channel and its content.
Takeaways

Nate Sala's personal journey from leaving the church to becoming a Christian highlights the role of apologetics in evangelism.
Wise Disciple ministry focuses on helping Christians effectively incorporate theology and apologetics into their conversations.
Nate Sala's insights on debate and persuasion emphasize the importance of objectivity and the criteria for judging debates. Debate preparation involves considering the opponent, the topic, and the audience.
Emotional connection and rhetoric play a significant role in debates, alongside logical arguments.
Cross-examination is a crucial aspect of debates, allowing debaters to showcase their critical thinking abilities.
Personal biases and emotional connections can influence the analysis and perception of debates.
The guest's channel offers content on debate analysis, sermon breakdowns, and Bible study sessions.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
02:12 The Journey to Faith and Ministry
09:06 Insights on Debate and Persuasion
26:14 Emotion and Rhetoric in Debates
33:41 The Significance of Cross-Examination
45:26 Exploring the Host's Channel and Content

================================
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141 - Argument from Reason with Travis Dickinson

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 05:00:03 +0000

Summary
In this episode, Brian and Chad interview Travis Dickinson about the argument from reason. They discuss the different options for explaining the existence of logical principles, focusing on naturalism and Platonism. Travis argues that if God does not exist, logical principles either do not exist or exist as brute abstract objects. He explains that naturalism, which denies the existence of anything outside the natural world, cannot account for the existence of logical principles. Platonism, on the other hand, posits the existence of abstract objects in a separate realm, but this explanation is ad hoc and lacks independent reasons. Travis concludes that the most plausible explanation for logical principles is the existence of God. In this part of the conversation, Brian and Travis discuss the argument from reason and its connection to the existence of God. They explore the idea that our ability to reason and use logic points to the existence of a higher mind, which they identify as God. They also discuss how the argument from reason can be used in practical apologetics to engage with skeptics and point them towards Christ.

Takeaways

The argument from reason posits that if God does not exist, logical principles either do not exist or exist as brute abstract objects.
Naturalism, which denies the existence of anything outside the natural world, cannot account for the existence of logical principles.
Platonism, which posits the existence of abstract objects in a separate realm, is an ad hoc explanation without independent reasons.
The most plausible explanation for logical principles is the existence of God. Our ability to reason and use logic suggests the existence of a higher mind, which can be identified as God.
The argument from reason can be used in practical apologetics to engage with skeptics and challenge their worldview.
The moral argument may be more effective in hitting people in the gut, but the argument from reason provides a strong intellectual foundation for belief in God.
Studying logic and critical thinking can be seen as a way of studying God and living in a way that reflects the mind of Christ.
The argument from reason points to the idea that God is the greatest conceivable being, worthy of worship and the normative standard for reasoning.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:17 Guest Introduction
03:33 The Incompatibility of Naturalism and Logical Principles
05:01 Reason as the Observable Phenomenon
06:29 The Plausibility of God as the Ground of Logical Principles
16:21 The Ad Hoc Nature of Platonism
24:23 The Limitations of Platonism
26:14 The Need for a Ground of Logical Principles
27:13 The Argument from Reason and the Existence of God
30:07 The Platonic View vs. the Theistic View
35:17 Jesus as the Originating Logical Principle
39:38 Jesus as the Ground of Being and Logic
51:03 The End of Every Philosophical Question is God

================================
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140 - Beauty & Love with Paul Gould

Tue, 21 May 2024 20:41:18 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten & Chad Gross engage with philosopher Paul Gould to discuss the profound connection between beauty, love, theism. They delve into why beauty is more likely on theism than naturalism and explore various philosophical perspectives on love and the recognition of beauty.

Topics Covered:
1. Introduction to the Topic of Beauty:
- Beauty in Theism vs. Naturalism:
- Gould explains why beauty is more likely on theism than naturalism.
- Discussion on the analogy between human artistic creativity and the universe's beauty.
- The improbability of a universe saturated with beauty under naturalism's unguided, blind forces.
2. Philosophical Arguments and Analogies:
- Human Artistic Creativity:
- Creating beautiful art requires skill and intention, paralleling the idea of a divine artist behind the universe.
- Entropy and Beauty:
- Examination of why beauty persists despite the laws of entropy and randomness under naturalism.
3. Exploring the Nature of Love:
- Defining Love:
- Gould outlines five features of love:
1. Multi-directed
2. Complex
3. Deep and Enduring
4. Active and Passive
5. Valuable
- Discussion on how contemporary philosophical views often fail to capture these features fully.
- Aquinas's wisdom on love as a comprehensive framework.
4. Beauty as a Properly Basic Belief:
- Plantinga's Concept of Properly Basic Beliefs:
- Inquiry into whether the recognition of beauty can be considered a properly basic belief, not needing argumentation to be justified.
- Experiences of Beauty:
- Distinctions between judgments of beauty, experiences of beauty, beautiful things, and beauty itself.
- The Christian story's integration of beauty, truth, and goodness, particularly through the narrative of the cross.
5. Listener Questions and Practical Insights:
- Interacting with Listener Inquiries:
- Addressing questions about the recognition and judgment of beauty.
- Discussion on the practical implications of philosophical views on love and beauty.
Key Quotes:
- Paul Gould on Beauty and Naturalism:
"If naturalism is true, and the universe is just the result of unguided, blind forces, you would not expect beauty to saturate the world. By analogy, just as beauty is very hard for human artists, it's surprising for it to saturate the world without a divine artist."
- **Brian Auten on the Christian Story:**
"The cross being the God of the universe, sacrificing himself for sinners to save them, even when they hate him, is the most beautiful story there is. It brings tears to your eyes because it's beautiful."
- Paul Gould on Love:
"Love is multi-directed, complex, deep and enduring, active and passive, and valuable. We need an account of love that captures all these features."

================================
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139 - Our Favorite Debates

Fri, 10 May 2024 11:40:36 +0000

Introduction
- Chad and Brian discuss their favorite and most memorable debates between Christian apologists/philosophers and atheists/skeptics

Chad's Debate Picks
1. James Crossley vs. William Lane Craig - Was Jesus Raised from the Dead? (2012)
- Highlights Craig's case for the resurrection based on postmortem appearances
- Contrasting styles of young Crossley vs distinguished Craig
2. Jeffrey Lowder vs. Frank Turek - What Better Explains Reality: Naturalism or Theism? (2016)
- Appreciates Lowder's formal case for naturalism reminiscent of Craig
- Admires the cordiality and clash of Lowder's logic vs Turek's rhetoric
3. Christopher Hitchens vs. William Lane Craig
- The "prizefight" lead-up and spectacle surrounding this legendary debate
- Contrasts Craig's arguments vs Hitchens' emotional appeals
4. Braxton Hunter vs. Matt Dillahunty (2019)
- Hunter exposes issues in Dillahunty's epistemology
- Effectively argues for Kalam cosmological argument and argument from free will
5. Craig vs Francisco Ayala - Is Intelligent Design Viable? (2013)
- Craig debates an award-winning evolutionary scientist
- Craig has to think on his feet against unfamiliar arguments from Ayala
6. Chris Date vs. Dale Tuggy - Is Jesus Human and Not Divine?
- High-level, rich, respectful debate between able defenders of their positions
- Highlights Date's ancient bird imagery argument for Christ's deity
7. Paul Draper vs. William Lane Craig
- Craig debates a formidable philosophical adversary
- Interesting to see Craig on his heels against some unfamiliar arguments

Brian's Debate Picks
1. William Lane Craig vs. Peter Atkins
- The famous "put that in your pipe" moment where Craig lists what science can't explain
2. Norm Geisler vs. Paul Kurtz on John Ankerberg Show
- Admires Geisler's rapid-fire responses to a breadth of objections

Bonus: Worst Debate - Jeff Durbin & James White vs Dr. Clark & Dan Ellis (2020)
- Dr. Clark engaged in bizarre antics like throwing books, demanding miracles
- One of the most cringeworthy debates they've seen

Find links here: https://truthbomb.blogspot.com/2024/02/some-of-my-favorite-debates.html
================================
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138 - Why Listen to Debates?

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 14:06:58 +0000

In this episode, Brian and Chad discuss the importance of listening to debates. This is a kind of PART 1, and part 2 will discuss specific debates.

Brian's seven reasons for listening to debates were: 1) Hearing the best defenders of each view, 2) Hearing actual arguments without interruptions, 3) Finding the cutting edge of the current debate, 4) Getting used to hearing opposing views without anxiety, 5) Seeing that Christianity can hold its own intellectually, 6) Observing how a cumulative case is made and critics' counters, and 7) Realizing the debate is just an entry point to a much deeper topic.

Throughout explaining his seven reasons, Brian and Chad discussed the value of debates utilizing good logic (logos), credibility (ethos), and emotional appeals (pathos). They noted how the best debates are well-moderated with clear time limits. Listening to debates can boost confidence in the Christian faith by seeing it withstand scrutiny. However, the debate is just the start in grasping the full depth of a topic which opens up avenues for further study.

================================
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137 - Rethinking Hell with Chris Date

Sat, 06 Apr 2024 16:27:04 +0000

In this episode, Brian and Chad interview Chris Date about his view on conditional immortality, which is the idea that the final punishment of the wicked is death and total destruction rather than eternal conscious torment. Chris provides an overview of the two contrasting views and shares his journey of how he became convinced of annihilationism after originally believing in eternal conscious torment.

He then dives into key biblical texts that are often used to argue for eternal torment, such as Mark 9:48, Matthew 25:46, Revelation 14:9-11, and Jude 7, demonstrating how these passages can actually better support conditionalism. Chris also makes a concise case for his view by looking at biblical evidence on immortality, the vision of eternity, substitutionary atonement, and the fate of the wicked described as death and destruction.

For more resources from Chris on this topic, check out the Rethinking Hell website
www.rethinkinghell.com

and YouTube channel
https://www.youtube.com/@RethinkingHell

as well as Chris' personal website at https://chrisdate.info

While Chris hopes listeners will consider his perspective, his ultimate desire is for unity in the body of Christ despite differences on this non-essential doctrine.

================================

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136 - Rescuing Inerrancy with Hugh Ross

Sun, 24 Mar 2024 09:54:28 +0000

In this episode, Dr. Hugh Ross joins Brian Auten and Chad Gross to discuss his book "Rescuing Inerrancy: A Scientific Defense." Dr. Ross, an astrophysicist and Christian apologist, explains how modern scientific discoveries actually strengthen the case for biblical inerrancy rather than undermining it. He argues against the notion that science forces a redefinition of inerrancy, showing how the latest findings in fields like genetics and cosmology align with a literal, historical interpretation of the Bible's creation texts. Dr. Ross' book is available at https://a315.co/3xfWniE

A major focus of the discussion is the debate around human origins and the historical existence of Adam and Eve. Dr. Ross presents scientific evidence supporting the descent of all humanity from an original couple created by God, refuting claims that genetic diversity requires a larger founding population. He also discusses William Lane Craig's model positing Adam living hundreds of thousands of years ago and explains why he sees this as inconsistent with biblical and scientific data pointing to a more recent origin of humanity during the last ice age.

The conversation covers other important topics like Dr. Ross' moderate concordist approach to harmonizing science and Scripture, the influence of Old Testament scholar John Walton's "Lost World" writings, and the nature of Noah's Flood which Dr. Ross sees as regional rather than global based on exegetical and scientific considerations. Listeners are encouraged to explore Dr. Ross' other resources at https://reasons.org including his forthcoming book on Noah's Flood. The podcast reminds Christians that modern science can be a powerful evangelistic tool when properly understood.

================================
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135 - Bullies and Saints with John Dickson

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 14:12:54 +0000

Historian Dr. John Dickson joins the show to discuss his book, Bullies and Saints: An Honest Look at the Good and Evil of Christian History.

Dickson provides an insightful, nuanced perspective on some of the most controversial episodes in Christian history, from the Crusades to the Galileo affair. He argues that while Christians have certainly made grave mistakes throughout history, the influence of Christianity has also been profoundly positive, pioneering hospitals, abolitionism, and education.

Dickson is candid about the church's failures but also highlights inspiring figures like Eligius, Gregory of Nyssa, and the courageous early Christian martyrs. He aims to provide an objective account that combats overly negative portrayals of Christian history while also avoiding Christian triumphalism.
Key topics discussed include Constantine's role in the Christianization of Rome, myths about the "Dark Ages," the confident humility of early Christian martyrs, myths surrounding Galileo's persecution, and more.

Dickson provides illuminating historical context and thoughtful analysis of these complex issues. His book provides a thoughtful corrective to biased accounts on both sides, appealing to secular and religious readers alike.

Links:

* Bullies and Saints book

* John Dickson's website

* Dickson's Undeceptions podcast

================================
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134 - Deconstruction with Alisa Childers

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 12:00:17 +0000

In this episode, hosts Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Alisa Childers about the topic of deconstruction, and unpack ideas discussed in her newest book: The Deconstruction of Christianity: What It Is, Why It’s Destructive, and How to Respond co-authored with Tim Barnett.
https://a315.co/3SmCWvp

The podcast focuses on the faith deconstruction movement that is becoming more popular, especially among young people. Alisa Childers explains that deconstruction involves re-examining and often dismantling one's childhood faith. It stems from postmodern philosophy which questions whether objective truth exists, especially when it comes to religion and morality. Deconstruction sees things like biblical authority and sexual ethics as oppressive tools used by the church. Social media plays a big role by providing an online community that affirms and celebrates people's decisions to deconstruct and leave their faith.

Childers notes that a crisis of faith or negative church experience can trigger deconstruction, especially if someone lacks a deep personal relationship with Christ. Intellectual doubts can often be resolved through study and apologetics resources, but emotional doubts driven by trauma or wounds may need counseling. For those with deconstructing loved ones, she advises understanding the philosophical roots of the movement, resisting heated arguments, and providing a loving presence while avoiding compromise on biblical truth. Parents of deconstructing teens can limit social media access to help them detox from harmful online influence.

The church can reduce triggers for deconstruction by addressing spiritual abuse issues and improving biblical discipleship. Megachurches focused on growth sometimes fail to adequately shepherd members. Childers encourages honest doubting and questioning within a biblical framework, not rejecting scriptural authority. Christians should handle crises of faith by examining the roots of their doubt, pursuing truth with courage and humility, and leaning on the Holy Spirit for guidance during struggles.
================================
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133 - 2023 Wrap Up

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 13:55:51 +0000

This special end-of-year episode features hosts Brian Auten and Chad Gross reflecting on 14 years of podcasting. They announce some changes coming in 2023, including less frequent but more focused episodes centered on topics they are passionate about. They also share lessons learned over 300+ episodes, like the importance of understanding multiple perspectives, asking good questions, and clearly explaining complex subjects.

The hosts reminisce about memorable past guests. They discuss what makes some lesser-known thinkers stand out for their clarity and approachability.

A lighthearted segment features their top 10 list of real excuses guests have used over the years to reschedule interviews, ranging from missed flights to scheduled gardening appointments.

Looking ahead, Brian and Chad are excited to continue equipping listeners to understand their faith, think critically about issues, and winsomely engage others.

They welcome ideas for future guests and topics of interest to guide their 2023 episodes.
Feedback and suggestions can be sent to podcast@apologetics315.com.
================================
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132 - Divine Hiddenness with Michael Jones

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 06:00:03 +0000

In this episode, hosts Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Michael Jones of the Inspiring Philosophy YouTube channel.

They discuss the problem of divine hiddenness - the idea that if God existed, he would make his existence clearly evident to everyone, yet there are many non-resistant nonbelievers who earnestly seek God but do not find convincing evidence of his existence. This is seen as evidence against God's existence.

Michael provides an overview of the divine hiddenness argument, explaining key concepts like "non-resistant nonbelievers." He argues that the idea of truly non-resistant nonbelievers is questionable, since human psychology tends to defend our beliefs. Michael also discusses assumptions made about God's nature in the argument, and that God's goal may not be to convince everyone of basic theism but to create "cognitively robust theism" - loving God for the right reasons. They also touch on related issues like the difference between divine hiddenness and the problem of evil.

Michael gives advice for those struggling with doubts from divine hiddenness - to focus on studying the evidence for Jesus' resurrection, living out the gospel message of selflessness, and recognizing our own sin and need for a savior. He recommends resources for further study like books by Paul Moser and Tim Stratton.

Further resources…
Inspiring Philosophy YouTube Channel:
www.youtube.com/@InspiringPhilosophy

Inspiring Philosophy Website:
www.inspiringphilosophy.org

Why does God Hide? - https://a315.co/47u2htn

Michael Jones vs. Tyler Vela: “Why Does God Hide?” - https://a315.co/3Qxuadj

================================
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131 - Reasonable Faith Chapters with Tyson James

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 06:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Tyson James, the global director of Reasonable Faith Chapters.

This episode of the Apologetics 315 podcast featured an interview with Tyson James, the global director of Reasonable Faith chapters. Tyson shared about his journey to Christianity and how studying apologetics strengthened his faith. He explained that Reasonable Faith chapters are small groups at churches focused on studying Christianity and answering objections, with the goal of fulfilling Reasonable Faith's mission at the local level.

Tyson outlined the simple process for starting a Reasonable Faith chapter, noting that directors have flexibility in how they structure meetings. He offered encouragement for those nervous about leading a chapter without formal apologetics training. Tyson shared stories of God working through the chapters, including outreach to a previously unreached tribe in Nepal. He noted that Reasonable Faith has nearly 250 chapters in 39 countries, aiming for 1000 total. Tyson directed listeners to ReasonableFaith.org/chapters to learn more about getting involved.

Further resources…
https://ReasonableFaith.org/chapters

Tyson James on X: @nosyt43

Sound Faith Consulting, and Tyson’s Bio:
https://soundfaithconsulting.com/about

================================
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130 - Street Smarts with Greg Koukl

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 06:00:03 +0000

In this episode of the Apologetics 315 podcast, hosts Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview renowned apologist Greg Koukl. Koukl is the founder of Stand to Reason, an organization that equips Christians to defend their faith and engage in meaningful conversations.

The discussion centers around using questions to have better conversations about Christianity, drawing from Koukl's books Tactics and his latest work Street Smarts. Koukl explains how questions can guide conversations in a more constructive direction and help "put a stone in someone's shoe" to get them thinking about faith topics.

Koukl outlines his "gardener approach" to evangelism, focusing more on asking thoughtful questions to plant seeds rather than trying to lead someone to a moment of conversion. He demonstrates this questioning approach through a roleplay conversation about the problem of divine hiddenness. Koukl responds to the objection by asking clarifying questions, correcting underlying assumptions, and presenting evidence for God's existence. This models how to have a relaxed yet thoughtful dialogue.
Koukl emphasizes that the key is to gather information through questions, avoid preaching, and lead the person to put pieces on the table themselves. The goal is to get people thinking carefully about their beliefs and objections. Koukl's Tactics provide tools to engage skeptics without being confrontational.

Further resources…
• Street Smarts: Using Questions to Answer Christianity's Toughest Challenges - https://a315.co/StreetSmarts
• The Story of Reality: How the World Began, How It Ends, and Everything Important that Happens in Between - https://a315.co/3FpqFAl
• Relativism: Feet Firmly Planted in Mid-Air - https://a315.co/3M4AMyr
• Tactics, 10th Anniversary Edition: A Game Plan for Discussing Your Christian Convictions - https://a315.co/46YCclW
• Street Smarts Study Guide: Using Questions to Answer Christianity's Toughest Challenges - https://a315.co/3tMmETZ

================================
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129 - Near Death and Deathbed Experiences

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview J. Steve Miller on the topic of deathbed experiences and near death experiences.

0:24 - Intro to Steve Miller and his books
4:50 - Welcome to Steve Miller
5:00 - How did he get into this area of research?
7:42 - What’s the difference between deathbed experiences and near-death experiences?
12:40 - Examples of these experiences
16:16 - The cumulative effect of many similar experiences
17:27 - What are the lines of evidence that are good when looking at these experiences?
22:20 - “Naturalism of the gaps” objections to NDEs
25:19 - The common experience of terminal lucidity
40:36 - What are deathbed experiences?
48:11 - Could these experiences be demonic in nature?
54:43 - Experiences contrary to theological expectations?
1:01:18 - The practical benefits of NDE and DBE research
1:07:18 - Suggested books for further study…

Further resources…
J Steve Miller online: www.jstevemiller.info

Steve’s books:
Deathbed Experiences as Evidence for the Afterlife - https://a315.co/3Fr5Xjx

Near-Death Experiences as Evidence for the Existence of God and Heaven: A Brief Introduction in Plain Language - https://a315.co/3FsJVgt

Is Christianity Compatible With Deathbed and Near-Death Experiences? : The Surprising Presence of Jesus, Scarcity of Anti-Christian Elements, And Compatibility with Historic Christian Teachings - https://a315.co/3FqsXiM

Faith That's Not Blind: A Brief Introduction to Contemporary Arguments For the Existence of God - https://a315.co/3QuFUyx

Why Brilliant People Believe Nonsense: A Practical Text For Critical and Creative Thinking - https://a315.co/3FqhQqf

================================
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128 - The Toxic War Against Masculinity with Nancy Pearcey

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross speak with Professor Nancy Pearcey about her book The Toxic War on Masculinity: How Christianity Reconciles the Sexes - https://a315.co/468rzNF

0:24 - Intro banter on hobbit food
2:15 - Intro to Nancy Pearcey and her book The Toxic War Against Masculinity
6:16 - Welcome to Nancy
6:46 - Nancy’s background and why she wrote the book
9:14 - Francis Schaeffer’s influence on Nancy Pearcey
15:41 - Why a toxic war against masculinity?
18:35 - The statistics among Christians and non-Christians
22:18 - The difference between nominal Christian men and committed Christian men
25:36 - What’s changed to bring about a resistance against masculinity?
30:07 - Why men are looked down on these days
33:00 - Two competing scripts for masculinity
37:03 - How secularism has changed the approach towards men
40:14 - How has the church responded?
47:50 - Abuse and how the church can respond

Further resources…
Nancy Pearcey online:
www.nancypearcey.com

Nancy Pearcey's latest book is The Toxic War on Masculinity: How Christianity Reconciles the Sexes

Her earlier books include

Love Thy Body: Answering Hard Questions about Life and Sexuality,

The Soul of Science

Saving Leonardo

Finding Truth

How Now Shall We Live

Total Truth

Her books have been translated into 19 languages. She is professor and scholar in residence at Houston Christian University. A former agnostic, Pearcey has spoken at universities such as Princeton, Stanford, USC, and Dartmouth. She has been quoted in *he New Yorker and Newsweek, highlighted as one of the five top women apologists by Christianity Today, and hailed in The Economist as "America's pre-eminent evangelical Protestant female intellectual."

================================
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127 - The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 05:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross speak with Justin Brierley (www.justinbrierley.com) about his book The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God: Why New Atheism Grew Old and Secular Thinkers Are Considering Christianity Again - https://a315.co/3PBmXZ7

0:24 - Brian and Chad discuss the book
5:27 - Intro to Justin, welcome back!
7:15 - How did the new atheism actually help Christianity?
9:12 - The change in the cultural landscape
13:30 - Atheists who are now no longer fighting Christianity
17:30 - Why the structure of the book?
24:56 - How has social media changed?
27:58 - Reasons why the Bible is being taken seriously by academics
33:21 - Arguments & evidence vs. experience
37:10 - The left and the right brain and spiritual experiences
39:34 - The meaning crisis that is left when you remove Christianity
42:30 - How can the church respond to the cultural climate?
47:21 - Further resources…

Justin’s new podcasts:
Re-Enchanting - https://a315.co/3thIFKj

MaybeGod Podcast - https://a315.co/3LGOh7f

Check out this previous episode with Justin Brierley here:
https://a315.co/3tlXXxt
================================
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126 - Responding to the Mormon Missionary Message

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Corey Miller and Ross Anderson, two former Mormons, on their book Responding to the Mormon Missionary Message: Confident Conversations with Mormon Missionaries (and Other Latter-day Saints) - https://a315.co/3PYWohY

Check out the website www.mormonmissionarymessage.com for more!

About our guests: https://a315.co/45c79Su

0:24 - Intro to the book and our guests
2:47 - Welcome to Corey and Ross
4:23 - How did the book come together?
7:20 - What was it like growing up in the Mormon culture?
11:18 - What led Corey and Ross to start doubting Mormonism?
17:40 - What does doubting Mormonism usually lead to?
22:45 - What are the primary authorities for Mormons?
26:10 - Questioning the testimony of Mormons
31:40 - What sows doubt into Mormons’ experiences?
37:45 - The life of a Mormon missionary
40:30 - What do you say to the Mormon at your door?
45:00 - What to avoid saying?
48:25 - The usefulness of the book and where to find more resources

Check out the website www.mormonmissionarymessage.com for more!

Corey Miller & Ratio Christi:
https://ratiochristi.org/people/corey-miller/

Ross Anderson:
www.faithaftermormonism.org

================================

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125 - An Informed Cosmos with Peter S Williams

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 05:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Christian Philosopher Peter S. Williams about his book An Informed Cosmos: Essays on Intelligent Design Theory.

Find his resources at www.peterswilliams.com

0:24 - Intro to our guest
2:15 - About the book An Informed Cosmos
9:25 - Getting clarity on what intelligent design is
14:10 - Is I.D. science? And defining “science”
19:39 - Truth as the most important approach
21:56 - Imposing worldviews on the data?
25:01 - Is evolution the means by which God created?
29:21 - What role does a Darwinian process play?
35:00 - How did Peter go from being a theistic evolutionist to an ID proponent?
40:45 - What tipped the balance for Peter?
46:52 - What role does information play in design detection?
53:21 - Can we recognize non-intelligent design?
54:57 - Theistic interpretations?
56:22 - Paley’s “watchmaker” shows that we can detect design?
1:00:13 - Prevailing errors when thinking about design
1:05:00 - Is intelligent design “creationism”?
1:06:25 - How has intelligent design changed Peter’s thinking?
1:13:30 - Peter’s music - www.peterswilliams.com/composing

Check out a past episode with Peter S. Williams:
006 - Outgrowing God? with Peter S. Williams - https://a315.co/4615IYj

Books by Peter S. Williams:
An Informed Cosmos: Essays on Intelligent Design Theory - https://a315.co/48ugxUc

A Universe From Someone: Essays on Natural Theology - https://a315.co/46GLUtl

Apologetics in 3D: Essays on Apologetics and Spirituality - https://a315.co/3PtMqUu

Outgrowing God? A Beginner’s Guide to Richard Dawkins and the God Debate - https://a315.co/3Pww9xP

Getting at Jesus: A Comprehensive Critique of Neo-Atheist Nonsense About the Jesus of History - https://a315.co/46pUFri

A Faithful Guide to Philosophy: A Christian Introduction to the Love of Wisdom - https://a315.co/3Ptm0C3

C.S. Lewis vs the New Atheists - https://a315.co/48ugxUc
================================
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You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
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124 - Why You Can Trust the Gospels with Lydia McGrew

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Lydia McGrew about her book Testimonies to the Truth: Why You Can Trust the Gospels.

0:24 - Intro to Lydia McGrew
1:51 - Welcome Lydia, and intro to the book
3:43 - How does a philosopher approach the Gospels?
6:39 - Is an “outside perspective” welcomed?
9:28 - Old and new approaches to the Gospels
12:03 - Current approach of scholars to the New Testament
15:44 - How have Christians historically defended the Gospels?
16:50 - Why a cumulative case approach?
19:55 - Inference to the best explanation of multiple hypotheses
23:25 - Best explanation of hard little unnecessary details
26:23 - The reportage model and the burden of proof
31:14 - Unnecessary details, a sign of fiction?
37:25 - What are unexplained allusions?
42:34 - The aspects of Jesus’ life that point to its reality
46:45 - “I love Jesus’ style…”
49:48 - Pointing people to the book and resources…

Further Resources:
• Lydia McGrew website: www.lydiamcgrew.com

• Lydia McGrew’s Youtube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/LydiaMcGrewChannel

• Podcast version of Youtube content:
https://anchor.fm/lydiamcgrew

Books:
Testimonies to the Truth: Why You Can Trust the Gospels
https://a315.co/3Pb2oUj
The Eye of the Beholder: The Gospel of John as Historical Reportage
https://a315.co/3E8Fuac
The Mirror or the Mask: Liberating the Gospels from Literary Devices
https://a315.co/3XzVKI8
Hidden In Plain View: Undesigned Coincidences in the Gospels and Acts
https://a315.co/411fsj2

PREVIOUS EPISODES WITH LYDIA MCGREW:
106 - The Reliability of John with Lydia McGrew - https://a315.co/45JAxA9
084 - Maximal Data Case for the Resurrection with Lydia McGrew - https://a315.co/3qC6lbu
================================
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You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
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123 - The Severity of God with Paul Moser

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Christian philosophy Paul K. Moser. They discuss the themes in Moser’s book The Severity of God: Religion and Philosophy Reconceived - https://a315.co/3sOD6mx

0:24 - Intro to Paul Moser
3:33 - Welcome to Paul Moser
4:00 - What do you mean by “God’s severity”?
9:06 - We’ve lost the message of suffering and hardship
11:25 - The moral perfection of God and his intentions
18:20 - Why is this theme lacking?
22:42 - The experience of Gethsemane and submission
29:09 - Skeptical expectations and “not my will”
33:09 - Meeting God on his terms
34:00 - Reorienting our Christian epistemology with a willing heart
41:24 - The challenge of the obstinate will (turning to Christ)
45:30 - The flux and despair of life, pushing us to God
49:45 - Changing our approach to philosophy
55:30 - The God who vindicates Himself

Further Resources:
Paul Moser’s website: http://pmoser.sites.luc.edu/
Paul Moser’s faculty page at Loyola - https://a315.co/44McpvG
Paul Moser’s books on Amazon - https://a315.co/PaulMoserBooks

================================
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You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
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122 - End Times with Chris Date

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Chris Date on the topic of Eschatology, or the End Times. They explore the ins and outs of various views of the end times, before discussing more deeply the view that Chris holds on the subject. A very helpful and informative conversation!

www.chrisdate.info

0:24 - Intro to Chris Date
2:43 - An update on Chris and his wife’s treatment
5:07 - What is eschatology?
6:47 - Chris’ work and engagement on the subject
9:44 - Why should anyone care about end times study?
15:00 - Encouragement for those overwhelmed by the topic
17:57 - Advice for people having discussions on end times
24:23 - An overview of end times views
29:45 - What is the most popular view historically?
37:01 - The history of dispensational millennialism
43:06 - Is “the rapture” biblical?
50:40 - The preterist view
52:06 - Partial or full preterism?
1:11:15 - How does one properly think about their view of end times?
1:16:08 - What’s up with 666?
1:23:10 - Resources recommended for further study

Resources:
Premillennial vs Amillennial on Christ's Return: Daniel Goepfrich & Chris Date on Unbelievable with Justin Brierley - https://a315.co/3Pn5vZy

Overview of End Times Views - by Gregg Steve - https://a315.co/45SdzXv

Four Views Of Revelation - https://a315.co/3R54YNe

The Last Days according to Jesus: When Did Jesus Say He Would Return? By RC Sproul - https://a315.co/3R1dA7x

It's Not the End of the World! By DeeDee Warren - https://a315.co/47VihFV

Before Jerusalem Fell: Dating the Book of Revelation by Kenneth Gentry - https://a315.co/45zPN30

Four Views on the Book of Revelation by C. Marvin Pate, General Editor - https://a315.co/3qVPSii

Books by Chris Date:
Is Jesus Human and Not Divine? A Debate by Chris Date and Dale Tuggy - https://a315.co/45zNoFs

Rethinking Hell: Readings in Evangelical Conditionalism edited by Chris Date, Gregory Stump and Joshua Anderson - https://a315.co/3P4kKoK

A Consuming Passion edited by Chris Date and Ron Highfield - https://a315.co/3o3lL7d

Does God Predetermine the Eternal Destiny of Every Individual Human Being? A Debate by Chris Date and Gil VanOrder, Jr. - https://a315.co/3W9Xc5e

================================
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121 - Tolkien's Faith with Holly Ordway

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Holly Ordway about her new book, Tolkien’s Faith: A Spiritual Biography. A wonderful book and a fascinating interview that will be a real treat for Tolkien fans.

www.hollyordway.com

0:24 - Intro to Holly Ordway
4:45 - Welcoming Holly
5:35 - The 50th Anniversary of J.R.R. Tolkien’s death, Sept 2023
6:45 - The goal in writing a spiritual biography of Tolkien
11:23 - How central was Tolkien’s faith to his life and work?
14:26 - Why is this the first biography to focus on Tolkien’s faith?
18:50 - Hidden allusions to faith in Tolkien’s writings
21:14 - The significance of Tolkien’s name(s)
25:51 - The elucidation of truth by presenting it in different embodiments
29:04 - What did Tolkien really think about allegory?
31:56 - Receiving stories in answer to prayer
33:30 - Rough patches in Tolkien’s faith
36:53 - The mutual influence of his friendship with C.S. Lewis
40:00 - What role did arguments and evidence play in Tolkien’s life?
44:25 - Bible translation
46:44 - What influence did this project have on Holly’s faith?

Resources:
Tolkien’s Faith: A Spiritual Biography

Holly Ordway’s Website: www.hollyordway.com

Holly’s other books include:

Tolkien's Modern Reading: Middle-earth Beyond the Middle Ages

Tales of Faith

Not God's Type

================================
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120 - NAR and Divergent Theology with Richard P Moore

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 05:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Richard P. Moore. They talk about the New Apostolic Reformation and its theological problems.

0:23 - Intro to Richard Moore
3:50 - Why is Richard in Germany, and why write this book?
8:02 - What has been the influence of the NAR in Germany?
19:42 - What differentiates NAR from traditional pentecostal/charismatic?
25:42 - Why do those within NAR want to distance themselves from the label “New Apostolic Reformation”?
33:10 - Where does NAR theology go off the rails?
43:53 - Richard’s visit to Bethel Church and what he found
55:39 - Extrapolating scripture out of context, building doctrines out of thin air
1:01:29 - The self-centeredness of the NAR
1:04:15 - Can we “take the good and leave the bad” in the NAR?
1:11:53 - Further resources…

Richard P. Moore is the author of Divergent Theology: An Inquiry into the Theological Characteristics of the Word of Faith, Third Wave Movement and the New Apostolic Reformation.

Resources:
Richard Moore’s website:
www.richardpmoore.net

Churchepreneurs Podcast
www.richardpmoore.net/churchepreneurs-podcast

Richard’s podcast on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@richardm23

On Twitter:
@richardpmoore23

Richard’s recent article on the New Apostolic Reformation in the Evangelical Review of Theology can be read here: https://a315.co/3OcwQM6

Divergent Theology: An Inquiry into the Theological Characteristics of the Word of Faith, Third Wave Movement and the New Apostolic Reformation.
https://a315.co/Divergent-Theology

German version:
www.richardpmoore.net/entwurzelt-kaufen-2

================================
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119 - Gender Ideology with Chris Reese

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 06:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Chris Reese on the topic of gender ideology, transgenderism, and approaching challenges cultural issues.

Based on Chris Reese’s helpful article at Summit.org, found here:
https://a315.co/gender-ideology

Christopher L. Reese is the editor-in-chief of The Worldview Bulletin and cofounder of the Christian Apologetics Alliance. He is a general editor of the Dictionary of Christianity and Science and Three Views on Christianity and Science and his work has appeared in Christianity Today, Bible Gateway, Beliefnet, and other sites.

Websites:
Check out the Worldview Bulletin here:
https://a315.co/WorldViewBulletin

================================
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You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
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118 - Scribes and Scripture with Peter Gurry

Mon, 29 May 2023 05:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Dr. Peter Gurry, co-author of the book Scribes and Scripture: The Amazing Story of How We Got the Bible.

0:27 - Intro to Peter Gurry
3:07 - Welcome to Peter Gurry
3:27 - Peter’s background and focus
5:22 - What got Peter interested in studying the origin of the scriptures?
7:56 - Did your study make you more or less confident in the scripture?
13:09 - How do we know what was written without the originals?
22:16 - Interesting scribal notes found in manuscripts
29:41 - What is the canon of scripture and how did we receive it?
36:41 - What place do the apocryphal books have for the Christian?
43:23 - Apostolic authority…
46:20 - The best way to choose a Bible translation
59:24 - Further resources:

Books:
Scribes and Scripture: The Amazing Story of How We Got the Bible

Myths and Mistakes in New Testament Textual Criticism

Websites:
www.textandcanon.org

Evangelical Textual Criticism Blog

Articles:
Five Decisions Every Bible Translator Must Make

================================
We appreciate your feedback.
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You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
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117 - Catching Up on Various Topics

Mon, 22 May 2023 07:37:28 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross discuss a variety of topics.

1:46 - Chad makes English Tea
3:20 - Where have we been?
4:20 - Mailbag question: Apologetics songs?
15:45 - What have we been reading?
16:11 - The Discipline of Grace by Jerry Bridges
18:13 - The Knight & Rose Show
18:27 - Common Sense Economics
19:09 - When the Church Was Young
19:54 - Not so keen on C.S. Lewis?
23:39 - Why There Is No God
29:46 - Pocket History of the Church
30:25 - What we’ve been watching…
30:34 - Guardians of the Galaxy
35:22 - The Messed Up Church Channel
35:42 - Justin Peters Ministry
37:04 - History of the Pentecostol / Charismatic Movement
40:31 - Share your NAR Experience…
43:21 - Mandalorian Season 3
45:32 - Justin Schieber vs Eric Hernandez debate
51:05 - An Apologist’s Prayer

“Remind me to be quick to pray, with an alert mind and a thankful heart. Please give me opportunities to speak the truth about Christ to those who do not know Him. Teach me to proclaim this message as clearly as I should. Work in me so that I may live wisely among those who do not believe, so that I will make the most of each opportunity. Ensure that my conversations are gracious and attractive. And please provide me with the wisdom I will need to thoughtfully respond to each person.”
Based Colossians 4:2-6

Further resources and videos mentioned:
Counterfeit Kingdom: The Dangers of New Revelation, New Prophets, and New Age Practices in the Church by Holly Pivec and Douglas Geivett

God’s Super Apostles: Encountering the Worldwide Prophets and Apostles Movement by Holly Pivec and Douglas Geivett

Songs Mentioned:
Creed - Petra

Words in the Water - Thrice

Creed - Third Day

God’s Not Dead - Newsboys

================================
We appreciate your feedback.
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You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
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116 - The Deity of Christ with Chris Date

Mon, 15 May 2023 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Chris Date on the subject of the deity of Christ. They also discuss the debate Chris had on the topic with Dale Tuggy, and explore further.

4:30 - Welcome to Chris Date
5:20 - A health update on Chris’s wife
7:00 - Chris’s future education plans
10:04 - How did the Dale Tuggy debate come about?
13:02 - How to prepare for a debate
19:17 - What do we mean when we say Jesus is Divine?
22:19 - What weight do we give to early church fathers about this doctrine?
25:30 - Is the belief in the deity of Christ essential, and why?
32:41 - What reasons can be given by those who dispute the deity of Christ?
37:37 - What’s the best place to start with arguing for the deity of Christ?
46:06 - Did Jesus empty himself of his divinity and do his mighty works?
55:32 - How is the Father greater than the Son?
59:05 - How to prioritize what to deal with during debates
1:03:28 - The importance of theology and not just apologetics
1:06:08 - Imagery that helps show the deity of Christ
1:11:52 - Chris’s work and more resources:

Chris Date website:
www.chrisdate.info

Chris Date Theopologetics on YouTube:
www.youtube.com/user/Theopologetics

On Hell:
www.rethinkinghell.com
www.youtube.com/@rethinkinghell

The Book:
Is Jesus Human Not Divine? (Dale Tuggy & Chris Date)

The debate:
Is Jesus Human Not Divine? (Dale Tuggy & Chris Date)
https://a315.co/44XRRlq

Other books by Chris Date:
Rethinking Hell: Readings in Evangelical Conditionalism edited by Chris Date, Gregory Stump and Joshua Anderson

A Consuming Passion edited by Chris Date and Ron Highfield
Does God Predetermine the Eternal Destiny of Every Individual Human Being? A Debate by Chris Date and Gil VanOrder, Jr.

================================
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115 - How to Talk about Jesus Without Sounding Like an Idiot - with Andy Bannister

Mon, 01 May 2023 05:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross talk to Andy Bannister about his forthcoming book: How to Talk about Jesus Without Looking Like an Idiot: A Panic-Free Guide to Having Natural Conversations about Your Faith. An episode filled with some great insights, encouragement and tools for sharing your faith with others.

0:25 - Intro
3:24 - Welcome to Andy
5:27 - Where is Andy located in UK?
7:45 - About SOLAS
10:23 - Why this title for the book?
13:12 - Overcoming fear in sharing your faith
16:37 - How fears reveal our idols
19:02 - An overview of the book and the tools for evangelism
23:50 - How do you prepare yourself?
27:08 - What pitfalls to avoid?
34:07 - Preach the Gospel, if necessary use words??
37:10 - Bringing the conversation back to Jesus
42:39 - How to apply this right now…

Get the book here:
How to Talk about Jesus Without Looking Like an Idiot: A Panic-Free Guide to Having Natural Conversations about Your Faith

Check out further resources here:
SOLAS - www.solas-cpc.org
Andy Bannister’s website: www.andybannister.net

================================
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114 - Classic Replay - Gary Habermas

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross select a classic interview from the archive: an interview with Gary Habermas on the topics of doubt, the resurrection, and near death experiences.
Interviews Mentioned:

• Michael Ward - https://a315.co/3MNx3Xh
• Nabeel Qureshi - https://a315.co/3GNqCQb
• Norman Geisler - https://a315.co/41x6jOF
• Scott Klusendorf - https://a315.co/4083hPW
• Paul L. Maier - https://a315.co/3UHR834
• Gary Habermas - https://a315.co/41zAEMO
• James Spiegel - https://a315.co/3L1AV4v

================================
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113 - Imaginative Apologetics with Holly Ordway

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 05:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Holly Ordway about the themes and ideas in her book Apologetics and the Christian Imagination: An Integrated Approach to Defending the Faith.

0:22 - About Holly Ordway, and our thoughts on her book
4:02 - Welcome to Holly, and the role of imagination in her conversion
9:01 - What is “imagination” and what role does it play in apologetics?
12:19 - How meaning is constructed and imagination’s role
13:51 - Distortion of meaning: how can we address it?
16:22 - How is imagination foundational to reason?
17:39 - Why the limitations of language should be considered
22:50 - How we can be integrated in our approach to apologetics
25:00 - The difference between C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien’s approaches
28:05 - How can the apologist use the imaginative approach better?
33:46 - Jesus’ use of parables
35:41 - Holly forthcoming book: Tolkien’s Faith: A Spiritual Biography
https://a315.co/3Gk3wQJ
38:43 - Further resources…
39:36 - Why tea in the UK is better than tea in the USA

Books mentioned:
Apologetics and the Christian Imagination: An Integrated Approach to Defending the Faith

Tolkien’s Faith: A Spiritual Biography (PREORDER!!)

Holly’s Website:
www.hollyordway.com

Her other books include:
Tolkien’s Modern Reading: Middle-earth Beyond the Middle Ages

Not God’s Type: An Atheist Academic Lays Down Her Arms

================================
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112 - Jesus the Master Thinker

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 05:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross discuss Jesus the master thinker: how Jesus reasoned, persuaded, argued, and valued reason and evidence.

Debate mentioned:

Is Christianity Dangerous? with Michael Jones and Aron Ra

Books mentioned:

The Apologetics of Jesus: A Caring Approach to Dealing with Doubters by Norman Geisler and Patrick Zukeran

Logic and the Way of Jesus: Thinking Critically and Christianly by Travis Dickinson

Love Your God with All Your Mind: The Role of Reason in the Life of the Soul by J.P. Moreland

How to Argue Like Jesus: Learning Persuasion from History's Greatest Communicator by Joe Carter and John Coleman

================================
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111 - Conference Recap and SAFT Update

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 21:14:44 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross talk about the recent Defenders Conference in Wisconsin, then Jacob Varghese from SAFT Apologetics joins us to give an update on the ministry.

SUPPORT SAFT BELOW!!
https://blog.saftapologetics.com
—> https://www.patreon.com/saftapologetics <—
info@saftapologetics.com
jacob@saftapologetics.com
================================
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110 - A Good and True Story with Paul Gould

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 06:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Christian philosopher Paul Gould about his book A Good and True Story: Eleven Clues to Understanding Our Universe and Your Place in It.

0:25 - Intro bits and pieces
3:44 - Welcome to Paul Gould
4:05 - Palm Beach Atlantic University and its apologetics programs
6:00 - Why is Paul’s book formatted the way it is?
9:18 - What is it about “story” that might be missing when we are doing apologetics?
11:54 - Bridging the gap between world views with story
15:36 - Meaning and story explaining our world
19:10 - The origin of life a signpost for theism
22:46 - How to tackle the “god of the gaps” objection
24:53 - The origin of mind (mind before matter)
34:21 - Accounting for objective moral realities
39:28 - How is happiness a signpost to God?
42:26 - What is happiness, and will “God make you happy”?
45:03 - Pain and the hypothesis of indifference vs. theism
48:10 - Why can there be only one true religion?
51:31 - Further Resources

RESOURCES:
A Good and True Story: Eleven Clues to Understanding Our Universe and Your Place in It. https://a315.co/3lm3mRQ

Paul Gould’s website:
www.paul-gould.com

Paul Gould’s podcast, the Eudo Podcast:
https://a315.co/42m88PQ

Palm Beach Atlantic University Masters Programs:
https://pbaschoolofministry.com/mastersphilosophyreligion

================================
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You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
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109 - The Messed Up Church with Steve Kozar

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 06:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten interviews Steve Kozar, who runs The Messed Up Church YouTube channel. His channel exposes the error of false teachings. You’ll find videos on the word of faith movement, the prosperity Gospel, NAR, and a lot of the most damaging teachings that need to be exposed and called out.

0:25 - Intro
3:00 - Interview begins
3:10 - How Steve’s blog and YouTube channel got started
18:13 - The catalyst for Steve doing deeper digging into scripture
20:48 - Irritating people, or getting their attention?
26:30 - The morphing and overlapping of false teachings
32:03 - The danger of pragmatism at the expense of the Gospel
33:28 - What’s the fundamental issue behind these movements?
38:17 - How does one detox from so much false teaching?
41:19 - False teaching enabling spiritual abuse and vice versa
41:53 - The love of money
49:15 - Getting the next dopamine hit from church experiences
50:11 - Thought-stopping devices
54:30 - The challenge of questioning false teachings and re-examining our beliefs
1:00:00 - Having the courage to question
1:01:45 - Positive and negative responses to Steve’s videos

RESOURCES:
The Messed Up Church (YouTube Channel)
www.youtube.com/c/StevenKozarMessedUpChurch

Steven’s The Messed Up Church website:
www.themessedupchurch.com

Steven Kozar’s artwork:
www.stevenkozar.com

================================
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You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
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108 - Unbelievable? with Justin Brierley

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 06:00:04 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Justin Brierley, host of the Unbelievable? Radio Program. We discuss what Justin has learned from moderating debates and conversations about God and faith for the past 17+ years, as well as his book, Unbelievable?: Why After Ten Years of Talking with Atheists, I'm Still a Christian.

0:24 - Intro to Justin Brierley
3:28 - Welcome to Justin
7:37 - How Unbelievable? started
10:03 - An apologetic for apologetics?
14:03 - Justin unpacks his fine-tuning YouTube video
21:17 - As culture changes, how has the God debate changed?
27:04 - Has Dawkins mellowed?
31:03 - Justin’s encounter with Richard Dawkins
38:02 - Tips on keeping conversations civil
43:01 - How to be exposed to opposing views and not freak out
49:48 - Events on the horizon…

RESOURCES:
Justin Brierley’s website:
www.justinbrierley.com

The Unbelievable Radio Program / Podcast

Unbelievable YouTube Channel
www.youtube.com/@PremierUnbelievable

How a dice can show that God exists (video)

The Big Conversation
www.thebigconversation.show

Book:
Unbelievable?: Why after ten years of talking with atheists, I'm still a Christian by Justin Brierley

Ask N.T. Wright Anything podcast

================================
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You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
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107 - A Horn of Plenty

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 06:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross discuss a cornucopia of topics (a horn of plenty)…
0:58 - Things to discuss on the podcast today
1:16 - The upcoming Defenders Conference:
www.thedefendersconference.com

4:03 - Brian’s passing of the torch to Chad…?
6:39 - Upcoming guests…
6:45 - Justin Brierley
10:27 - Steven Kozar from The Messed Up Church YouTube channel
17:37 - Paul Gould on A Good and True Story
19:43 - Holly Ordway on apologetics & the Christian imagination
24:13 - Recommended iPad app: Goodnotes & Remarkable Bible
26:23 - Thoughts on Hugh Ross and Perry Marshall interviews
RESOURCES:
The Unbelievable Radio Program / Podcast:
https://a315.co/41uycI8

Unbelievable?: Why after ten years of talking with atheists, I'm still a Christian by Justin Brierley
https://a315.co/3mc2crR

The Messed Up Church YouTube Channel
https://a315.co/MessedUpChurch

Paul Gould’s book: A Good and True Story
https://a315.co/3IWfzFG

Apologetics and the Christian Imagination: An Integrated Approach to Defending the Faith by Holly Ordway
https://a315.co/3IVZC2b

Good Notes App for iPad
https://www.goodnotes.com

Remarkable Bible
https://remarkablebible.com

================================
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You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
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106 - The Reliability of John with Lydia McGrew

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 06:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Dr. Lydia McGrew about the reliability of the Gospel of John, exploring themes and ideas found in her book The Eye of the Beholder: The Gospel of John as Historical Reportage.

0:25 - Intro to Lydia McGrew
2:25 - Information on the Defenders Conference:
www.thedefendersconference.com
3:15 - Welcome to Lydia McGrew
3:30 - Lydia’s latest book: https://a315.co/3YuXV14
4:35 - What’ different about the Gospel of John?
6:48 - What role should scholarly consensus play when determining reliability?
10:28 - Doesn’t scholarly consensus change?
12:17 - Where does consensus come from anyway?
14:34 - How does one determine what is historical?
20:00 - Do our previous beliefs bias us? Should we keep them separate from our assessment?
24:31 - What does it mean to say that John is full historical?
28:33 - Questions regarding authorship
33:19 - How to make sense of the “voice” of John in the Gospel vs. the epistles?
39:45 - The use of “asides” in John’s narrative
40:35 - Would we expect this?
42:40 - Does the lateness of John’s authorship give us reason to doubt?
47:54 - Do longford monologues give us reason to doubt?
51:46 - The “I am” statements of Jesus
56:34 - Questions about reliability / Gospel “portraits”
1:02:08 - Inference to the best explanation
1:05:17 - Lydia’s newest book about Gospel reliability…Testimonies to the Truth: Why You Can Trust the Gospels

*RESOURCES:*
Lydia McGrew’s Youtube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/LydiaMcGrewChannel

Podcast version of Youtube content:
https://anchor.fm/lydiamcgrew

*Books:*
The Eye of the Beholder: The Gospel of John as Historical Reportage

The Mirror or the Mask: Liberating the Gospels from Literary Devices

Hidden In Plain View: Undesigned Coincidences in the Gospels and Acts

Testimonies to the Truth: Why You Can Trust the Gospels

================================
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You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
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105 - Evolution 2.0 with Perry Marshall

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 06:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Perry Marshall about the ideas in his book Evolution 2.0: Breaking the Deadlock Between Darwin and Design.

4:20 - Introducing Perry Marshall
4:46 - About Perry’s background
10:38 - Where does Perry land in his beliefs?
19:45 - Why “evolution 2.0”?
26:13 - How this view is actually affirming to faith
30:16 - Perry’s book summarized in two sentences…
32:32 - Looking at DNA with a systems engineer mindset
40:00 - Any pushback from fellow believers?
45:10 - What distinguishes Perry’s view from I.D.?
48:00 - Agency at a cellular level?
52:30 - His brother’s journey
58:42 - The third way of evolution
1:08:30 - Advice for those in specialized fields
1:12:47 - Where to find Perry’s stuff online…
1:14:00 - An encouragement to seek after truth

RESOURCES:
www.evo2.org
www.perrymarshall.com
www.perrymarshall.info

Evolution 2.0: Breaking the Deadlock Between Darwin and Design

Evolution 2.0 Podcast

================================
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104 - Designed to the Core with Hugh Ross

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 06:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview astrophysicist Dr. Hugh Ross about the fine-tuning of the universe, solar system, and our planet for intelligent life to exist. They discuss the ideas of his latest book Designed to the Core.

0:35 - About Hugh Ross, and his latest book
3:48 - Information on the Defenders Conference:
www.thedefendersconference.com

5:41 - Welcoming Hugh Ross
6:02 - Commentary on the James Webb space telescope
10:42 - Do the theistic implications of a big bang seem to be a stumbling block for atheistic scientists?
13:00 - An overview of the fine-tuning data in Designed to the Core
16:33 - What about a multiverse to explain the fine-tuning?
19:43 - Why search for exoplanets when the prospect for life is so minimal?
21:51 - All the planets surrounding earth play a role in supporting life
25:00 - Why comets and asteroids are important for life
28:17 - Does the impending heat death of the universe negate fine-tuning?
31:30 - What about earth-quakes, hurricanes and natural evils?
38:43 - Why is so much of the universe uninhabitable, and so big?
45:35 - The importance of the earth and moon’s magnetic fields
52:51 - How can someone use fine-tuning persuasively in conversation?
55:05 - The origin of life problem
1:00:10 - Could life be based on something other than carbon?
1:02:23 - Is Hugh Ross a Concordist in his view of scripture?
1:10:46 - How does Hugh stay so cool during hostile debates?
1:14:55 - Wrapping up
RESOURCES:
Hugh Ross Bio: https://a315.co/3RDiDcr

Article: James Webb Space Telescope: Initial Revelations

Article: Big Bang Implications of Detecting the Universe’s First Stars

Hugh Ross and Walter Kaiser vs. Ken Ham and Jason Lisle - Genesis Debate
Hugh Ross Books:
Designed to the Core

The Creator and the Cosmos

Why the Universe Is the Way It Is

Improbable Planet

www.reasons.org
================================
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If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

103 - Contagious Faith with Mark Mittelberg

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 06:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Mark Mittelberg on the topics of apologetics and evangelism. They discuss themes within Mark’s book Contagious Faith: Discover Your Natural Style for Sharing Jesus with Others.

2:01 - Introduction to Mark Mittelberg
8:24 - Welcoming Mark
14:09 - The biggest obstacles to sharing our faith
18:18 - It’s ok to challenge other people’s ideas
22:00 - The 5 styles of sharing one’s faith
29:39 - The pitfalls of various styles of evangelism
35:09 - How to bring up Christ with long-time friends
39:32 - How to deal with endless objections
47:07 - The truth-telling style
54:00 - Adjusting styles for others
57:55 - Making sure we don’t preach a reduced Gospel
1:03:04 - Resources for Contagious Faith:

www.contagiousfaithbook.com

Mark Mittelberg’s website

The Lee Strobel Centre for Evangelism and Applied Apologetics

Lee Strobel

Confident Faith: Building a Firm Foundation for Your Beliefs

The Questions Christians Hope No One Will Ask

Contagious Faith: Discover Your Natural Style for Sharing Jesus with Others

================================
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102 - Theological Disagreement and Pointless Suffering

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 06:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross explore two arguments from Chad’s experience doing an atheist role-play: The argument from Massive Theological Disagreement, and the argument from Pointless Suffering.
================================
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101 - Atheist Role-play - Divine Hiddenness

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 06:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross talk about a couple podcasts, before diving into Chad’s experience doing an atheist role-play. They discuss three of Chad’s strongest atheist arguments. This episode focuses on the argument from divine hiddenness.
================================
Helpful links:
PODCAST SERIES ON THE HISTORY OF THE NAR AND ITS RELATION TO CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM:
“Charismatic Revival Fury: The New Apostolic Reformation”
https://a315.co/CharismaticRevivalFury

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:
Truth Tribe Podcast with Douglas Groothuis

HIDDENNESS RESOURCES:
Michael Jones with Frank Turek on Hiddenness: https://youtu.be/fav4J8BBUlE

Divine Hiddenness: A Sender or Receiver Problem?
By Ken Samples - https://a315.co/3w5x9Qh

Hiddenness Books:
The Elusive God by Paul Moser

More by Paul Moser: https://a315.co/3IQdhrS
================================

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100 - Ghostbusters Quotes

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 06:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross celebrate 100 episodes since the Ap315 Podcast reboot.

What does Ghostbusters have to do with apologetics?
Absolutely nothing, but Brian & Chad will pretend that it does, by dissecting 7 favorite quotes and forcing an apologetics interpretation onto them.

Have fun!

===========================
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099 - NAR Buzzwords

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 11:16:48 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross discuss some of the popular buzzwords you might hear that come from the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR). A helpful episode for knowing what the signs are that your church might be influenced by NAR teachings, as well as helpful questions to ask.
================================
Helpful links:

BOOKS:
A New Apostolic Reformation?: A Biblical Response to a Worldwide Movement - https://a315.co/3WXlL4n
God's Super-Apostles: Encountering the Worldwide Prophets and Apostles Movement - https://a315.co/3GzHZEr
Counterfeit Kingdom: The Dangers of New Revelation, New Prophets, and New Age Practices in the Church - https://a315.co/3Gc1dyb

OUR PAST NAR PODCASTS:
Brian’s experience in an NAR church first hand, you can check out episode 063 of the podcast. - https://a315.co/NAR-Experiences
Also check out our first interview with Holly and Doug about the New Apostolic Reformation - that’s episode 066. - https://a315.co/3EisONm
Episode 096 with Holly Pivec and Doug Geivett on their latest book, Counterfeit Kingdom: The Dangers of New Revelation, New Prophets, and New Age Practices in the Church - https://a315.co/3WyNybK

PODCAST SERIES ON THE HISTORY OF THE NAR AND ITS RELATION TO CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM:
“Charismatic Revival Fury: The New Apostolic Reformation”
https://a315.co/CharismaticRevivalFury

STATEMENTS by NAR and responses:
“In light of the controversy surrounding the terms “New Apostolic Reformation” (NAR) and “Christian Nationalism,” we are issuing this statement of clarification.” By Joseph Mattera and Michael Brown - https://narandchristiannationalism.com
Response from Geivett and Pivec to Mattera and Brown’s statement - https://a315.co/3VxKrzv
================================
We appreciate your feedback.
If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

098 - Why Does God Allow Evil with Clay Jones

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 06:00:03 +0000

Please make an end-of-year donation to Ap315!
https://apologetics315.com/donate/

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Clay Jones on the topic “Why Does God Allow Evil?”

1:53 - What is the best Christmas movie?
3:43 - Intro about Clay Jones
4:56 - Interview begins
5:03 - Clay’s history reteaching and teaching the subject
7:55 - How do we define evil?
9:00 - Evil is not a “thing”
10:30 - Is the curse of the ground a punishment or a limitation?
12:15 - God using things to teach people
13:28 - Which God are we defending?
15:53 - Getting too philosophical when defending the faith?
17:22 - Why is evil man’s problem (not God’s)?
22:18 - Genocide is something that people do
24:13 - Who does God allow humans?
28:09 - God is not done with the story yet, judgment and learning lessons
31:32 - How having an eternal perspective will illuminate the issue
35:00 - What about natural evils in the world?
41:15 - Why would God instruct Israel to slaughter the Canaanites?
38:12 - What about those carrying out the punishments?
51:58 - Can evil be used in an argument for the existence of God?
54:58 - Encouragement for those struggling

================================
*Helpful links:*
Clay Jones Bio
https://clayjones.net/#about

We Don’t Hate Sin So We Don’t Understand What Happened to the Canaanites - https://a315.co/WeDontHateSin

Clay Jones’ blog:
https://clayjones.net/blog/

BOOKS:

Why Does God Allow Evil?: Compelling Answers for Life’s Toughest Questions - https://a315.co/3UHCB5O

Immortal: How the Fear of Death Drives Us and What We Can Do About It - https://a315.co/3UMSQi2

Ordinary Men: Reserve Police Battalion 101 and the Final Solution in Poland by Christopher Browning - https://a315.co/3iSQDo2

The Rape of Nanking by Iris Chang - https://a315.co/3YbtBsG

================================
We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

097 - Paul Copan - Is God a Vindictive Bully

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 06:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Paul Copan on the themes in his latest book: Is God a Vindictive Bully? Reconciling Portrayals of God in the Old and New Testaments. https://a315.co/3FgJs1r

0:44 - Intro, and Chad’s atheist role-play
5:33 - Intro to Paul Copan
11:30 - How important is it to read Old Testament texts with discernment?
15:30 - Why continue writing about the topic of “the God of the OT”?
22:54 - Paul lays out the landscape of views from “critics within”
30:33 - What is the proper role of our own moral intuitions when looking at challenging things in the Old Testament?
38:48 - Should we “unhitch” the Old Testament from the New?
44:35 - How do we read and handle imprecatory Psalms in scripture?
50:14 - What would you say to someone who has walked away from the faith because they cannot accept Old Testament portrayals of God?

====================================
*Helpful links:*

Paul Copan’s Website: www.paulcopan.com

BOOKS:

Is God a Moral Monster? - https://a315.co/3FhmVln

Did God Really Command Genocide?: Coming to Terms with the Justice of God - https://a315.co/3Fip5kM

True for You, But Not for Me: Overcoming Objections to Christian Faith - https://a315.co/3VlIdns

When God Goes to Starbucks: A Guide to Everyday Apologetics
https://a315.co/3VJQp0J

That's Just Your Interpretation: Responding to Skeptics Who Challenge Your Faith - https://a315.co/3XOaXXq

"How Do You Know You're Not Wrong?" - https://a315.co/3uiH4AY

DEBATE:
Unbelievable? Can the Canaanite conquest be reconciled with a God of love? Paul Copan vs Randal Rauser - https://a315.co/3EVEB4n

Palm Beach Atlantic University Masters in Apologetics
https://a315.co/3B2CLxD

====================================
We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

096 - Counterfeit Kingdom with Holly Pivec & Doug Geivett

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 21:22:56 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross speak with Doug Geivett and Holly Pivec about the “New Apostolic Reformation” (NAR) movement, as well as the specific teachings coming out of the movement.

We cover some of the content they lay out in their newest book: Counterfeit Kingdom: The Dangers of New Revelation, New Prophets, and New Age Practices in the Church
https://a315.co/3TNAzk2

1:04 - Intro to our guests
1:40 - discussing the book Counterfeit Kingdom
6:23 - About our guests
8:10 - How is this book different than the previous on the NAR?
9:17 - Why are Doug and Holly interested in NAR teachings?
11:35 - Are you just against the move of God?
14:24 - Why so much focus on Bethel Church in Redding, CA?
15:30 - What attracts otherwise reasonable people to the NAR movement?
19:50 - Jesus’s overlooked warning; how to spot false prophets?
22:25 - Are there tests within the movement for prophets?
27:04 - What is spiritual abuse, and are NAR teaching leading to abuse?
30:00 - Petitionary prayer vs. “declaration” prayer
32:30 - Trying to raise a little girl from the dead
34:06 - The influence of NAR in popular Christian worship music
38:30 - Is there going to be a big end-times revival?
44:41 - Problematic methods of teaching the Bible?
48:00 - The origins of the Passion Translation
55:00 - Peculiar healing practices
1:07:06 - Protecting children from the NAR movement
1:10:20 - Final thoughts from Holly and Doug

*Helpful links:*
Holly Pivec and professor Doug Geivett are co-authors of various books about NAR:

God's Super-Apostles: Encountering the Worldwide Prophets and Apostles Movement
https://a315.co/3EIdET7

A New Apostolic Reformation?: A Biblical Response to a Worldwide Movement
https://a315.co/3EK40zt

Counterfeit Kingdom: The Dangers of New Revelation, New Prophets, and New Age Practices in the Church
https://a315.co/3V2QSdQ

Holly’s website: www.hollypivec.com
Doug Geivett’s website: https://douggeivett.wordpress.com

Brian’s experience in an NAR church first hand, you can check out episode 063 of the podcast. https://a315.co/NAR-Experiences

Also check out our previous interview with Holly and Doug about the New Apostolic Reformation - that’s episode 066. https://a315.co/3EisONm

Doug Geivett & Holly Pivec debate Michael Brown on the New Apostolic Reformation: https://a315.co/3X4hpJL

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

095 - Chad Gross Interview

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 06:00:02 +0000

In this podcast, Brian Auten interviews Chad Gross, the co-host of the Apologetics315 Podcast, as well as the author at Truthbomb Apologetics. http://truthbomb.apologetics.com

1:44 - Book review: Counterfeit Kingdom by Doug Geivett & Holly Pivec
https://a315.co/3TNAzk2
6:40 - The Passion Translation
9:30 - Chad’s background
10:25 - What did Chad believe about God?
12:26 - How did Chad come to belief in Christ?
20:12 - How did Chad get into apologetics?
26:00 - Chad’s areas of strength/interests
30:30 - Areas of struggle in apologetics
35:00 - Advice for speaking with others about Christianity
38:46 - Helpful tools for discipling our kids
42:00 - What should apologists do better?
46:35 - How to do better with online conversations
51:10 - What Chad’s learned from teaching
53:20 - Top Three apologetics “sensei’s”

*Helpful links:*
Doug Geivett & Holly Pivec debate Michael Brown on the New Apostolic Reformation: https://a315.co/3X4hpJL

Interview with Doug Geivett & Holly Pivec on the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR): https://a315.co/3tDSVcU

Truthbomb Apologetics
http://truthbomb.apologetics.com

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

094 - Wandering Toward God with Travis Dickinson

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 06:00:02 +0000

In this podcast, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Travis Dickinson about his recent book: Wandering Toward God: Finding Faith amid Doubts and Big Questions.

With the code 315POD listeners can get 30 percent off the ebook, along with a hard copy of Savoring Scripture (plus free shipping) at https://ivpress.com The code is good from 11/14-11/28

This is a great book, which explains what doubt is (and what it is not), how to approach and “lean into” our doubts while hanging on to our faith, and seeking rational confidence.

We discuss what doubt is, the difference between faith and unbelief, and how we can press into God amid doubts.

Also, what what steps can someone take when they are experiencing a crisis of doubt?

*Helpful links:*
Wandering Toward God book:
https://a315.co/3Us5ofb

Travis Dickinson website:
www.travisdickinson.com

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

093 - Mormonism with Eric Johnson

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 06:00:02 +0000

In this podcast, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Eric Johnson of the Mormon Research Ministry on the topic of Mormonism, what they believe, and how to engage with them. We also discuss the themes in Eric’s book: Introducing Christianity to Mormons.

*We talk about:*

Morality, The Lord of the Rings, and Awkward Jokes w/ Dr Peter Kreeft
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIIiVz_t5VA

Is God a Vindictive Bully?
https://a315.co/3FPSgfA

*Helpful links:*

Mormonism Research Ministry
https://www.mrm.org/

Introducing Christianity to Mormons (book)
https://a315.co/3T7TWnO

Eric Johnson (about)
https://www.mrm.org/eric-johnson

Viewpoint on Mormonism (Radio Show and Podcast)
https://a315.co/3hddGZN

The Next Mormons: How Millennials Are Changing the LDS Church by Jana Riess - https://a315.co/3UoUK8G

Latter-day Saints: Would you be willing to take the Romans Challenge?
https://a315.co/3t59wWK

Jim Wallace Podcast with Eric Johnson - How Can I Introduce My Mormon Friends To Christianity? (Cold-Case Christianity Broadcast S8E22)

IntroducingChristianity.com

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

092 - Deep Dive - Rebel's Manifesto Part 5

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 06:00:02 +0000

This is a Deep Dive into the book: A Rebel’s Manifesto: Choosing Truth, Real Justice, and Love amid the Noise of Today’s World by Sean McDowell.

This is Part 5 of the Deep Dive: “Ethics and Cultural Engagement”

0:48 - Colby Martin & Sean McDowell dialogue reflections
10:26 - Mailbag question
16:13 - Book recommendation
20:37 - Ch20 - The Environment
22:45 - Poverty
24:00 - Guns and Violence
26:17 - Immigration
29:37 - Artificial Intelligence
30:23 - Cultural Engagement Section
30:37 - Ch25 - How Will I Know God’s Will?
51:30 - Ch26 - A Guide for Conversations

Helpful links:
Progressive Christianity (Sean McDowell and Colby Martin)
https://a315.co/3DxdvBf

Live Action, Snopes, Planned Parenthood's "Prenatal Care"
https://a315.co/3gMlkKh

Karl Payne Podcasts (spiritual warfare)
Part 1 - https://a315.co/3Nhc6lK
Part 2 - https://a315.co/3f7aDSe

Playing with Fire by Billy Hallowell
https://a315.co/3SFFumw

Found: God's Will by John MacArthur
https://a315.co/3Sz2aoE

Failure - What is the Meaning of Failure for the Christian? (William Lane Craig) (Video and Transcript) - https://a315.co/3FotkeS

Tactics by Greg Koukl - https://a315.co/3FiG0E4

A Rebel’s Manifesto Book:
https://a315.co/Rebel

Sean’s McDowell’s Website:
www.seanmcdowell.org

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

091 - Deep Dive - Rebel's Manifesto Part 4

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 05:00:03 +0000

This is a Deep Dive into the book: A Rebel’s Manifesto: Choosing Truth, Real Justice, and Love amid the Noise of Today’s World by Sean McDowell.

This is Part 4 of the Deep Dive: “Sexuality”
0:35 - Rings of Power Finale comments
3:14 - Lee Strobe’s “A Case for Heaven” book comments
5:30 - J.P. Moreland’s “Scientism and Secularism” comments
6:15 - back to the Deep Dive…
6:40 - Topics covered this week
7:43 - Sex
9:45 - “The orders were for your protection…”
12:30 - What if everyone followed Jesus’ sexual ethic?
14:10 - Comments on the purity movement and motivations
17:45 - Homosexuality
30:05 - Transgender ideology
32:45 - Pornography
40:38 - Abortion
44:06 - Final comments

Helpful links:
What Does the Bible Say About Homosexuality? Sean McDowell and Matthew Vines in Conversation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFY4VtCWgyI

Ray Comfort Vs Matt Dillahunty | Does God Exist? DEBATE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRCbvfyiu0s

Scientism and Secularism: Learning to Respond to a Dangerous Ideology by J.P. Moreland - https://a315.co/3D2B6Iq

The Case for Heaven by Lee Strobel - https://a315.co/3z7jUAJ

Scott Klusendorf Interview on Abortion
https://www.spreaker.com/user/veracityhill/scott-klusendorf-interview

Belfast Bigot interview on Abortion
https://www.spreaker.com/user/veracityhill/014-abortion-and-the-belfast-bigot

A Rebel’s Manifesto Book:
https://a315.co/Rebel

Sean’s McDowell’s Website:
www.seanmcdowell.org

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

090 - Deep Dive - Rebel's Manifesto Part 3

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 05:00:02 +0000

This is a Deep Dive into the book: A Rebel’s Manifesto: Choosing Truth, Real Justice, and Love amid the Noise of Today’s World by Sean McDowell.

This is Part 3 of the Deep Dive: “Relationships”
0:41 - More Rings of Power spoilers
5:22 - Books in the Mail
7:19 - Chapter 10: Loneliness
14:36 - Chapter 11: Bullying
21:10 - Chapter 12: Suicide
31:53 - Chapter 13: Assisted Suicide
38:50 - Chapter 14: Racial Tension

Helpful links:

A Rebel’s Manifesto Book:
https://a315.co/Rebel

Sean’s McDowell’s Website:
www.seanmcdowell.org

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

089 - Deep Dive - Rebel's Manifesto Part 2

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 05:00:02 +0000

This is a Deep Dive into the book: A Rebel’s Manifesto: Choosing Truth, Real Justice, and Love amid the Noise of Today’s World by Sean McDowell.

This is Part 2 of the Deep Dive: “Culture”
0:26 - Intro and where have we been?
1:20 - Rings of Power talk
6:00 - The New Robocop
7:14 - Rocky
8:52 - Back to the book: the Rebel’s Manifesto… Deep Dive
11:43 - Chapter 6: Smart phones and social media
25:00 - Chapter 7: Entertainment
29:20 - Chapter 8: Politics
36:15 - Chapter 9: Drugs and Addiction

Helpful links:

A Rebel’s Manifesto Book:
https://a315.co/Rebel

Sean’s McDowell’s Website:
www.seanmcdowell.org

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

088 - Deep Dive - Rebel's Manifesto Part 1

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 05:00:02 +0000

This is a Deep Dive into the book: A Rebel’s Manifesto: Choosing Truth, Real Justice, and Love amid the Noise of Today’s World by Sean McDowell.

This is Part 1 of the Deep Dive: “The Challenge"
0:25 - Intro and current reading
• The Postmodern Pilgrim’s Progress - https://a315.co/3QKPdHm
• Introducing Christianity to Mormons - https://a315.co/3Lnu4ll
5:30 - Intro to the Rebel’s Manifesto Deep Dive
8:15 - Chapter 1: Standing for What is Right
14:30 - Chapter 2: Becoming a Good Person
20:37 - Chapter 3: Loving My Neighbor
28:01 - Chapter 4: Thinking Christianly
33:08 - Chapter 5: Judging Others

Helpful links:

A Rebel’s Manifesto Book:
https://a315.co/Rebel

Sean’s McDowell’s Website:
www.seanmcdowell.org

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

087 - Sean McDowell - A Rebel's Manifesto

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 05:00:09 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Sean McDowell on themes in his book A Rebel’s Manifesto: Choosing Truth, Real Justice, and Love amid the Noise of Today’s World.

Helpful links:

Sean’s Website:
www.seanmcdowell.org

A Rebel’s Manifesto Book:
https://a315.co/Rebel

Think Biblically Podcast:
https://a315.co/ThinkBiblically

Book Review: Fate of the Apostles by Sean McDowell
https://a315.co/3BvK69K

Book Review: Is God Just a Human Invention? And Seventeen Other Questions Raised by the New Atheists
https://a315.co/3Dbqfh5

What if Everyone Lived the Sexual Ethic of Jesus? by Sean McDowell
https://a315.co/3L377DT

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

086 - Frank Turek and Hollywood Heroes

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Dr. Frank Turek of Crossexamined.org. They discuss themes in his most recent book Hollywood Heroes: How Your Favorite Movies Reveal God.
https://a315.co/HollywoodHeroesBook

0:43 - About Frank Turek
1:31 - Featured Resource: Worldview Bulletin
https://a315.co/WorldViewBulletin
2:55 - About Hollywood Heroes
5:43 - Welcoming Frank Turek
6:00 - What’s it like writing a book with your son?
7:36 - Should Christians be afraid of watching certain movies?
10:31 - What is true heroism?
12:23 - “But all you need to do is share the Gospel…”
16:07 - What was a shock to Frank about the Harry Potter stories?
21:18 - Ironman vs. Captain America… why?
24:55 - Money, sex, and power.
29:07 - Star Wars or Superhero movies: Frank’s authoritative take
31:40 - The audiobook version of Hollywood Heroes
32:38 - Revenge of the Sith and falling into sin…
36:12 - New advice for apologists
41:15 - What can discourage Frank Turek?
43:50 - How can Christians keep their hearts from becoming hardened?
50:05 - Where to find all the cool goodies:

Check out Hollywood Heroes here:
https://a315.co/HollywoodHeroesBook

Find Frank’s website here:
www.crossexamined.org

Find Frank’s books here:
https://crossexamined.org/books

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

085 - Worldview Legacy with Joel Settecase

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 16:29:22 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Joel Settecase to discuss parenting and apologetics, how we might teach young people to defend the faith using his 3-step method, discussing worldviews and more.

Check out the Worldview Legacy Podcast here:
https://link.chtbl.com/WLonA315

Check out Joel Settecase’s The Think Institute here:
https://thethink.institute/

Check out Joel’s book:
Catakids!: The New Covenant Catechism for Little Ones
Here at amazon: https://a315.co/3AVAgxB

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

084 - Maximal Data Case for the Resurrection with Lydia McGrew

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 19:48:40 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Dr. Lydia McGrew about making a case for the resurrection of Jesus with a “maximal data” approach.

0:43 - Where have we been? On Holidays!!
1:03 - Chad’s important info on two Walters… https://a315.co/3PLbTXo
4:10 - Intro to Lydia McGrew
7:00 - Welcome Lydia, about her background
9:08 - Methods of defending the resurrection
10:09 - Where to find Paley’s arguments
10:26 - What is the Minimal Facts Argument for the resurrection?
13:24 - Why has the MFA become so popular?
15:12 - Are there any strengths of using the MFA approach?
18:17 - Shouldn’t we use data that are agreed upon by a consensus?
23:24 - Can you just use “well-evidenced” facts
25:36 - When does a case become maximal vs. minimal?
29:07 - Do scholars really affirm what the MFA claims?
32:11 - Can the minimal facts even get you to the resurrection?
37:22 - Are there other problems? Overselling it?
39:48 - We ask Lydia to demonstrate another approach: maximal data
40:49 - The elevator pitch of the maximal data approach for resurrection
43:47 - Does this approach kick us back to defending Gospel reliability?
44:58 - Making a case for Gospel reliability
46:15 - When skeptics point to scholars
48:38 - More defense of Gospel reliability (where we spend the time)
49:52 - Why not argue for BOTH reliability and resurrection?
52:14 - A common false saying to watch out for
52:35 - Gospels and doctrine
55:20 - Scholars doubting John’s reliability
55:50 - 15-minute version of the Maximal Data Case for the Resurrection
1:09:17 - Suggested resources for learning to defend the resurrection and the Gospels:

Maximal Data Approach - Areopagus forum presentation:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJOmf3XMWSU

Lydia McGrew’s books on New Testament
https://www.amazon.com/Lydia-McGrew/e/B073V1ZP1Y?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1661023565&sr=8-1

Lydia McGrew’s Youtube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/LydiaMcGrewChannel

Podcast version of Youtube content:
https://anchor.fm/lydiamcgrew

Lydia’s Minimal Facts playlist on Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLe1tMOs8ARn0sWTtdaXPg8oMRqmYnhU6M

Lydia’s seres from last fall on the Minimal Facts Argument:
http://lydiaswebpage.blogspot.com/2021/11/on-minimal-facts-case-for-resurrection.html
http://lydiaswebpage.blogspot.com/2021/11/on-minimal-facts-case-for-resurrection_29.html
http://lydiaswebpage.blogspot.com/2021/12/on-minimal-facts-for-resurrection-part.html

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

083 - Jesus Quotes

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 15:06:57 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross discuss a number of insightful quotes about Jesus and offer their thoughts and reflections.

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

082 - Apologetics as Worship

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 05:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross discuss how apologetics can contribute to and enrich one’s worship of God.

0:28 - Chad did something exciting
2:09 - Current reading:
• Evidences for Christianity by William Paley
• Strategy: A History by Lawrence Freedman
• A Rebel’s Manifesto by Sean McDowell
5:43 - What do I mean by worship and apologetics?
8:10 - Worship and loving God with your mind
13:06 - It is the glory of God to conceal a matter…
14:43 - Natural theology pointing to God
19:01 - How arguments point us to God, and how they should move us
22:33 - How the truth affects emotions
25:26 - Loving wisdom, seeking wisdom and understanding
29:43 - Three or four ways we can go wrong, and the remedies

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

081 - Presuppositionalism or Evidentialism with Jonathan McLatchie

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Jonathan McLatchie. www.jonathanmclatchie.com. Jonathan discusses and critiques presuppositional apologetics, while advocating for an evidential approach to apologetics.

1:33 - Resources for Discussing Your Pro-Life Convictions:
https://a315.co/3yDTgzl
2:35 - Intro to the topic and Jonathan McLatchie
5:08 - An outline of various apologetic methodologies
14:43 - Has Jonathan always been an evidentialist?
15:28 - A helpful debate on apologetic methodology:
https://a315.co/3ygEKw0
16:17 - Cumulative case apologetics / Five views on apologetics
https://a315.co/3NEIRrw
17:16 - Defining presuppositionalism
19:07 - How does it differ from inference to the best explanation?
20:42 - How does presuppositionalism look different in practice?
22:39 - Were people “doing it incorrectly” before Van Til?
25:47 - Does presuppositionalism require the triune God of Scripture?
26:21 - Ontology and espistemology
28:07 - Would this be the method of first-century fisherman?
30:18 - Is the method demonstrated in Scripture?
32:28 - Arguing in a circle
35:07 - What methodology do we see in Acts 17?
37:15 - What value can we take away from the presuppositional approach?
37:53 - Talking about neutrality
40:16 - Jonathan’s case for evidentialism
43:58 - In summary…
46:06 - www.talkaboutdoubts.com

Check out Jonathan’s resources:
www.jonathanmclatchie.com
www.talkaboutdoubts.com

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

080 - Why Believe with Neil Shenvi

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 16:10:39 +0000

In this episode Brian Auten & Chad Gross interview Neil Shenvi about his new book Why Believe?: A Reasoned Approach to Christianity. We love this book and it was a great conversation unpacking his approach and some of the arguments from the book.

0:43 - Impressions of the book
3:36 - Neil’s crazy bio that we didn’t understand
5:19 - Welcoming Neil
7:07 - Neil’s background
9:58 - How Neil became a Christian
14:00 - Isn’t apologetics just an exercise in confirmation bias?
20:18 - Discussing the structure of the book
24:30 - Unpacking the trilemma argument
27:25 - Addressing the best atheistic arguments
30:08 - The argument for Christianity from the Gospel
37:43 - Objections to the argument?
41:51 - Addressing hiddenness objections
51:16 - The truth-seeking argument https://a315.co/TruthArgument
57:43 - Neil’s present work and focus

Neil Shenvi’s bio:
https://a315.co/NeilShenvi

About the book:
https://a315.co/AboutWhyBelieve

Get is on Amazon here:
https://a315.co/WhyBelieveBook

Audiobook here:
https://a315.co/WhyBelieveAudiobook

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

079 - Livestream Interview with Brian Auten

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 21:24:22 +0000

In this episode Brian Auten is interviewed by Eli Ayala of the Revealed Apologetics YouTube channel.

From one interviewer to another, we touch on the many things we have learned from our conversations with various scholars, apologists, theologians, and philosophers.
We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

078 - Presuppositional Apologetics with Eli Ayala

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 17:49:48 +0000

In this episode Brian Auten & Chad Gross interview Eli Ayala about the apologetic methodology known as presuppositional apologetics. The goal is to get a better understanding of the what and why of the approach.

2:28 - Who is Eli Ayala? https://a315.co/3MNxJrK
4:39 - Eli affirms 80’s movies and notes his favorites
6:05 - How did you get into apologetics?
13:28 - The Revealed Apologetics YouTube Channel
15:28 - What is important to Eli when doing apologetics?
18:35 - Key scriptures that inform presuppositional methodology
21:46 - Why is this method called “presuppositionalism”?
23:45 - Is this like worldview analysis? What’s special about this?
27:22 - What is the essence of the presuppositional approach?
32:10 - What is the presup framework vs. presup method? Who decides what presuppositionalism means?
34:15 - Is this approach modeled in scripture?
36: 00 - Does Acts 17 show a presuppositional approach or not?
40:01 - Trying to nail down what’s missing in a non-presup method…
46:55 - Trusting God vs. trusting the unbeliever?
48:00 - Discussing various approaches within the presuppositional “camp”
53:49 - Whose theology? And how do we actually apply it?
56:20 - Can we build bottom up or should we start from top down?
1:01:47 - Why isn’t presuppositionalism not taken seriously in philosophy of religion?
1:06:29 - Further resources for reading about presuppositionalism
1:11:43 - Where to find Eli online:

www.revealedapologetics.com

Books:
We Destroy Arguments by Stephen Feinstein
https://a315.co/3MGRFg4

Always Ready by Greg Bahnsen
https://a315.co/3MMomZx

Against All Opposition by Greg Bahnsen
https://a315.co/3HhstvD

The Impossibility of the Contrary by Greg Bahnsen
https://a315.co/3xLn0d6

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

077 - Immortal with Clay Jones

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode Brian Auten & Chad Gross interview Clay Jones on evil, immortality, and the fear of death.
Check out Clay’s website here:
https://clayjones.net

1:03 - Intro to Clay Jones
2:52 - Why is Clay thinking about evil so much?!
6:11 - Why does God allow things like school shootings?
9:55 - Making sense of evil, thinking about God’s perspective
12:08 - Eternal perspective are often overlooked
13:47 - What’s the goal in writing the book Immortal?
18:02 - How does the fear of death drive everyone?
21:04 - What are these literal immortality projects?
24:39 - What the symbolic immortality projects?
29:47 - How do people try to “mitigate” their mortality?
35:32 - How can Christian get it wrong when they think about things like leaving a legacy?
39:26 - Pleasing Jesus or pleasing people?
41:20 - How can we use this information to reach unbelievers?
50:31 - Where to find further resources…

Check out Clay’s books:
Immortal: How the Fear of Death Drives Us and What We Can Do About It
https://a315.co/3MeIq6A

Why Does God Allow Evil?: Compelling Answers for Life’s Toughest Questions
https://a315.co/3mjw0Q8

Don’t forget to fill out the PODCAST SURVEY for a chance to win a prize!
https://airtable.com/shr14Kl8px7izEcan

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

076 - Five Arguments Christians Should Know

Mon, 30 May 2022 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode Brian Auten & Chad Gross discuss what they think are five arguments every Christian should know. When in conversation, what are some useful arguments to keep handy that are simple, easy to use, and effective?

Covered in this podcast:
Cosmological Arguments
Design Arguments
Moral Arguments
Resurrection Arguments
New Testament Arguments
Argument Against Religious Pluralism

What arguments do you think are helpful for Christians to know?

Suggested Resources:
On Guard by William Lane Craig
https://a315.co/38tkJcL

I Don’t Have Enough Faith to be an Atheist by Frank Turek and Norman Geisler
https://a315.co/3GsZ5lF

The Morals of the Story by David Baggett and Marybeth Baggett
https://a315.co/3PMJ8uF

The Case for the Resurrection of Jesus by Habermas & Licona
https://a315.co/3md4bt3

Can We Trust the Gospels? By Peter J. Williams
https://a315.co/3z0jWLo

The New Testament Documents: Are They Reliable? By F.F. Bruce
https://a315.co/3wWFwyK

Don’t forget to fill out the PODCAST SURVEY for a chance to win a prize!
https://airtable.com/shr14Kl8px7izEcan

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

075 - The Knight and Rose Show

Mon, 23 May 2022 05:00:02 +0000

In this episode Brian Auten & Chad Gross interview Wintery Knight and Desert Rose about their new podcast: The Knight & Rose Show.

0:23 - Intro
1:25 - What’s new with Wintery Knight
2:11 - Who is “Desert Rose”?
5:05 - How Knight and Rose got started
7:27 - An overview of the Knight and Rose Show
12:15 - Mentoring people in apologetics and using evidence and facts
19:36 - Why serving the boss is the number one priority
22:15 - God’s not our cosmic butler
24:51 - Why are people leaving the church these days?
25:26 - How to start equipping the church in apologetics
29:08 - What you win them with is what you win them to
31:09 - Masculinity in the church: what does it look like?
37:58 - Should Christians be interested in politics? Why?
46:09 - Where to find Knight and Rose online…

Further Resources:
Wintery Knight blog:
www.winteryknight.com

The Knight and Rose Show:
http://knightandrose.podbean.com

On YouTube:
https://a315.co/KnightandRose

Don’t forget to fill out the PODCAST SURVEY for a chance to win a prize!
https://airtable.com/shr14Kl8px7izEcan

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

074 - Intelligent Design with Casey Luskin

Mon, 16 May 2022 22:27:28 +0000

In this episode Brian Auten & Chad Gross interview Casey Luskin of the Discovery Institute on the topic of intelligent design.

https://www.discovery.org/p/luskin/

0:22 - Casey Luskin Intro
3:23 - Casey’s background and how he got involved in ID
8:02 - Casey’s work with Discovery Institute
14:42 - What do we mean when we talk about Intelligent Design?
22:40 - How does creationism get confused with ID?
32:04 - Examples of testable predictions made by ID
44:13 - Biggest developments in ID in the past 10 years
50:14 - The practical on-the-ground research and work being done by ID
53:11 - What are the problems with holding to theistic evolution?
1:04:07 - Some powerful ID arguments
1:08:10 - Prominent scientists who are supporting ID
1:16:45 - Further resources:

Discovery.org
Evolutionnews.org
ID The Future Podcast: idthefuture.com

Don’t forget to fill out the PODCAST SURVEY for a chance to win a prize!
https://airtable.com/shr14Kl8px7izEcan

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

073 - Street-Level Apologetics with Vocab Malone

Mon, 09 May 2022 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode Brian Auten & Chad Gross interview Vocab Malone about his book Street-Level Apologetics. They discuss practical evangelism and apologetics.

0:21 - Intro to Vocab Malone
2:12 - Vocab’s background in Christian hip-hop & evangelism
4:26 - “Does your family call you ‘Vocab’?”
5:39 - How did Vocab get into evangelism and apologetics?
9:49 - What is contextualization and what does it look like?
13:39 - Critiquing other worldviews
18:56 - Using theological terms when doing evangelism
22:46 - The PREACH acronym for doing evangelism
30:36 - Why use a presuppositional approach in apologetics?
34:03 - Why presup is not simply the transcendental argument
42:17 - Encouragement to trust the Lord with the result of our labor
46:11 - Where to find further resources from Vocab Malone

Further resources:
Webpage:
www.vocabmalone.com

Vocab Malone YouTube Channel:
www.youtube.com/vocabmalone

Street-Level Apologetics book:
https://a315.co/Street-Level-Apologetics

On Amazon:
https://a315.co/38HOVkn

FOLLOW VOCAB MALONE @vocabmalone on all social media & FOLLOW Street Apologist Media @streetapologist on all social media

Don’t forget to fill out the PODCAST SURVEY for a chance to win a prize!
https://airtable.com/shr14Kl8px7izEcan

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

072 - Podcast Review & Survey

Mon, 02 May 2022 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode Brian Auten & Chad Gross discuss the main takeaways from a number of previous podcast episodes. Don’t forget to fill out the PODCAST SURVEY for a chance to win a prize!

0:28 - The purpose of today's podcast review.
2:29 - Book recommendation: Is Atheism Dead? by Eric Metaxis
https://a315.co/3KypuPa
5:29 - Book recommendation: Fearless Prayer by Craig Hazen
https://a315.co/38EX60u
7:14 - Podcast recommendation: The Knight & Rose Show
Youtube: https://a315.co/3kAAa5f
iTunes: https://a315.co/38IhAFW
8:39 - Feedback Survey and Giveaway
https://airtable.com/shr14Kl8px7izEcan
9:23 - Preview of Upcoming Guests
9:54 - Lenny Esposito with Cultural Apologetics
10:59 - Pastoral Apologetics with Phil Fernandes
11:51 - Kurt Jaros - What about those who haven't heard?
12:14 - The Power of Testimonies with Eric Manning
13:56 - Rationality vs. Bigotry
14:24 - Cultural Apologetics with Paul Gould
15:20 - Spiritual Warfare with Karl Payne
16:46 - Person of Interest with J. Warner Wallace
17:58 - Dealing with Doubt
18:28 - A Cornucopia of Topics
18:44 - Demonization with Karl Payne
19:54 - Girl Talk Apologetics with Susan Morales
21:04 - Evangelism & Apologetics with Dave Sterrett
23:05 - J.P. Moreland classic interview
23:38 - The Wise Man Seeks God
24:04 - Talk about Doubts with Jonathan McLatchie
25:43 - Is Apologetics Optional?
26:20 - Apologetics in Conversation
27:07 - How could Jesus be the Only Way?
27:25 - Artificial Intelligence with Christian Hubbs
28:00 - Seven Characteristics of a Mature Thinker
28:13 - Advice for Apologists
29:07 - Logic with Ken Samples
29:42 - Is Reality Secular with Mary Poplin
30:31 - New Apostolic Reformation Experiences
33:45 - Rules of Apologetic Engagement
35:06 - Logic & The Way of Jesus with Travis Dickinson
36:11 - Beauty & Divine Hiddenness with Doug Groothuis
37:04 - Apologetics & Parenting with Brett & Erin Kunkle
38:12 - Pascal's Pensées
39:14 - Jesus is God
40:19 - Please fill out the podcast survey!
https://airtable.com/shr14Kl8px7izEcan

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

071 - Slavery & The Bible

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 05:00:05 +0000

In this episode Brian Auten & Chad Gross discuss the topic of slavery in the Bible. Did the Bible condone slavery? A wide-ranging discussion.

This week’s book reading discussed:
1:54 - Peter J. Williams’ book: Can We Trust the Gospels?
https://a315.co/3EHH8ic
2:25 - C. S. Lewis - A Life: Eccentric Genius, Reluctant Prophet
https://a315.co/3va7hTA
3:01 - Frank Turek’s Hollywood Heroes
https://a315.co/37GQ0IW
5:48 - Mailbag question: Molinism, Provisionism, and crossing the streams… and Tim Stratton’s response
9:10 - Tim Stratton’s book: Human Freedom, Divine Knowledge, and Mere Molinism: A Biblical, Historical, Theological, and Philosophical Analysis
https://a315.co/3EPYc5S
10:00 - Introduction to the topic of slavery and the Bible
13:51 - Peter J. William’s talk: Does the Bible Promote Slavery?
https://a315.co/3xQbRZg
13:58 - Defining what slavery is…
17:30 - Distinctions in meanings; translation differences
27:19 - John Mark Reynolds article on slavery in the Apologetics Study Bible for Students
https://a315.co/3ELekFO
37:50 - Racial slavery: does the Bible condone it?
41:40 - Some take-aways

Recommended resources on Slavery and Old Testament ethics:

• Against All Gods: What’s Right and Wrong with the New Atheism by John Mark Reynolds and Phillip Johnson
https://a315.co/36MO29y

• Christianity On Trial: Arguments Against Anti-Religious Bigotry by Vincent Carroll and David Shiflett
https://a315.co/3EGeY7p

• Is God a Moral Monster? by Paul Copan
https://a315.co/3xQ6CII

• God Behaving Badly by David Lamb
https://a315.co/39esjrU

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

070 - Jesus Is God

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 05:00:02 +0000

Did Jesus really claim to be God? In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross talk about the personal claims and actions of Jesus which clearly demonstrated his divinity.

Further resources:
*The Apologetics Study Bible for Students*
https://a315.co/3uOfUD7

*Putting Jesus in His Place: The Case for the Deity of Christ by Robert Bowman & Ed Komoszewski*
https://a315.co/3rU9UqX

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

069 - Pascal's Pensées

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross discuss Blaise Pascal’s Pensées. They discuss the topics of apologetic methodology, Pascal’s “Night of Fire,” Pascal’s reflections on distraction, the state of man, the hiddenness of God, the need for humility in approaching God, and Pascal’s appeal to the seeker.

Further resources:
The Pensées, FREE for Kindle:
https://a315.co/FreePensees

The best audiobook version of The Pensées:
https://a315.co/AudioPensees

Brian’s Review of The Pensées:
https://a315.co/PenseesReview

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

068 - Apologetics and Parenting with Brett and Erin Kunkle

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten interviews Brett & Erin Kunkle on the topic of parenting and apologetics. A great discussion!

https://maventruth.com/team/brett-erin-kunkle

0:30 - Intro to the topic
1:06 - About MAVEN and Brett & Erin
2:30 - What is MAVEN?
4:12 - What is a worldview approach so important when parenting?
10:04 - How can parents adopt an intentional approach to discipleship?
22:20 - How to integrate practices of discipleship with our kids
31:10 - It’s okay to feel inadequate; just learn with your kids!
32:10 - If parents could only learn ONE thing, it should be THIS…
39:36 - What about the fear that we’re not doing enough as parents?
45:50 - Encouragement for parents who think they’ve failed their kids
54:55 - About the Strong Women Podcast

Further resources:
MAVEN: https://maventruth.com/

MAVEN Parent Podcast:
https://maventruth.com/podcast/

Strong Women Podcast:
https://www.colsoncenter.org/strong-women/

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

067 - Beauty and Divine Hiddenness with Doug Groothuis

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Christian philosopher Doug Groothuis about the argument from beauty, as well as the objection of divine hiddenness.

https://douglasgroothuis.com

0:21 - Intro to Doug Groothuis
3:06 - Welcome to Dr. Groothuis
3:30 - Why write a second edition and what is new in this book?
5:37 - Why take a cumulative case approach to apologetics?
9:15 - What is the argument from beauty?
18:09 - Why don’t we hear more from this argument?
21:00 - How can this argument be used more in evangelism?
24:30 - What is the objection from divine hiddenness?
30:45 - Are there non-resistant non-believers?
34:26 - Are atheists taking the wrong approach when seeking is required?
38:30 - Skepticism as a prelude to Christian faith?
41:28 - Conditioned cognitive access as it applies to divine hiddenness
45:39 - Are we hiding and not God?
46:00 - Advice to those who are seeking
49:50 - Where to find more resources…

Further resources:
https://douglasgroothuis.com

Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Christian Faith 2nd Edition:
https://a315.co/3wBZcZc

More Dr. Groothuis’ books:
https://a315.co/36tE7pg

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

066 - New Apostolic Reformation with Doug Geivett and Holly Pivec

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 06:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross speak with Doug Geivett and Holly Pivec about the “New Apostolic Reformation” (NAR) movement. This is a must-listen for those who have encountered the teachings about modern-day apostles and prophets in the church.

0:51 - Intro to the topic of the NAR
1:25 - Listener feedback about NAR
6:23 - Intro to our guests and the topic of the New Apostolic Reformation
8:36 - Welcome of guests
9:20 - What got Holly interested in the NAR movement?
11:37 - How Doug got involved in the book project
14:57 - When people leave the NAR movement…
16:57 - What is the NAR movement and what are its teachings?
19:08 - What distinguishes this movement?
22:07 - What do NAR prophets mean when they say “thus saith the Lord”?
30:51 - Where do apostles and prophets get their authority?
37:14 - How do you know if your church has been influenced by the NAR?
45:06 - Key leaders of the movement
47:07 - The “Passion Translation” of the Bible
49:00 - “But isn’t God working in this church?” Response...
58:48 - What’s happening with all the false “Trump prophecies”?
1:06:00 - Does the NAR point out any false prophets or apostles?
1:13:32 - Has this caused people to walk away from the faith?
1:18:49 - How to “rebuild” after the disillusionment of the NAR
1:23:40 - Books to read and what’s to come

Further resources:
God's Super-Apostles: Encountering the Worldwide Prophets and Apostles Movement: http://a315.co/GodsSuperApostles

A New Apostolic Reformation?: A Biblical Response to a Worldwide Movement: http://a315.co/NewApostolicReformation

Doug Geivett Bio
http://a315.co/DougGeivett

Holly Pivec’s website:
https://www.hollypivec.com/

Episode 063 - Brian talks about his NAR experiences
http://a315.co/NAR-Experiences

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

065 - Logic and the Way of Jesus with Travis Dickinson

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 06:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross speak with Travis Dickinson about his recent book Logic and the Way of Jesus: Thinking Critically and Christianly.

0:35 - Review of Peter Kreeft’s book: Christianity for Modern Pagans: Pascal’s Pensées Edited, Outlined, and Explained
http://a315.co/ChristianityForModernPagans
5:16 - Intro to Travis Dickinson and his book Logic and the Way of Jesus: Thinking Critically and Christianly
http://a315.co/LogicAndTheWayOfJesus
9:37 - Welcoming Travis Dickinson
11:45 - Travis’s background and journey
14:12 - The structure of Logic and the Way of Jesus
15:57 - The cultural decline of Christendom and how to combat it
19:00 - “But I’m not an intellectual type!”
23:35 - Jesus as a brilliant thinker
29:00 - Unpacking the argument from reason
39:58 - What’s the best argument against the argument from reason?
43:18 - Discussion of inference to the best explanation (abduction), and the accusation of “God of the gaps” appeals
52:21 - Intellectual virtues and Christian persuasion
54:43 - Teaser for Travis’s next book Wandering Toward God
http://a315.co/WanderingTowardGod
57:12 - Advice for those who are discouraged with lack of intellectual engagement in their church

Further resources:
www.travisdickinson.com
http://a315.co/LogicAndTheWayOfJesus

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

064 - Rules of Online Engagement

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 06:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross are joined by Jacob Varghese (of SAFT Apologetics) to have a conversation about “Rules of Engagement.” How do we interact with gentleness and respect? How can we disagree without being divisive?

0:30 - Obligatory “witty banter”
1:45 - A discussion of Star Wars: what to watch first?
3:50 - Introduction to today’s topic of online engagement/social media
8:05 - Who are we talking to and who is watching?
10:34 - Love your enemies
13:08 - Ken Samples’ post about promoting unity when disagreeing
https://a315.co/3Mgx9nj
16:43 - Are we getting drawn into the “drama”?
20:40 - Building up, rather than being divisive
24:12 - Being labelled according to “camps”
25:00 - You can disagree without being divisive
26:30 - Lack of understanding on how to have healthy disagreements
30:26 - The tendency to want to “win” - win what? Argument or person?
31:34 - Galatians 5:15
32:02 - Should Christians use memes? What about sarcasm?
33:15 - Chad’s view on memes
34:34 - Brian’s view on memes: zingers
37:28 - When is sarcasm legitimate?
45:13 - “Don’t take the bait” - “Don’t feed the trolls” (Prov 19:11)
49:01 - Drawing out some principles for application
* Principle of Charity/Love
* Principle of Edification
* Principle of Prayer
* Principle of Environment/Audience
* Don’t equate the person with the view
* Principle of Understanding
* The foundation of Christ

Check out the SAFT Apologetics Podcast here: https://a315.co/3C7jo5J

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

063 - New Apostolic Reformation Experiences

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 06:00:04 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross talk about Brian’s experiences with the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) in the past, and what can be learned. They give a book preview of "God’s Super Apostles" by Doug Geivett and Holly Pivec.

This podcast describes some of the common terms and phrases you hear amongst those in the NAR movement, explores a bit about the idea of apostles and prophets among us today, and expresses serious concerns about the movement as a whole.

Suggested Reading:
God’s Super Apostles: Encountering the Worldwide Prophets and Apostles Movement
https://a315.co/3ho5T8m

A New Apostolic Reformation? A Biblical Response to a Worldwide Movement
https://a315.co/3hpcOxX

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

062 - Is Reality Secular with Mary Poplin

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 22:51:12 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross talk to Mary Poplin about her book Is Reality Secular?: Testing the Assumptions of Four Global Worldviews.

About Mary Poplin
https://a315.co/3IcprrW

0:26 - Intro to Mary Poplin’s book
5:00 - About Mary and her work
7:00 - Mary’s radical conversion to Christianity
10:00 - What was Mary’s worldview like before becoming a Christian?
11:00 - A dream that impacted Mary’s journey
13:32 - Why write a book about worldviews?
15:56 - What do we mean when we say “secular”?
18:39 - Why take a “worldview” approach?
22:27 - Exploring secular humanism
26:06 - How do we address secular humanism?
27:11 - Material naturalism
30:58 - Pantheism and Western Pantheism
32:57 - How Christianity is different
37:28 - What was most impactful during Mary’s time in Calcutta
41:08 - What was Mother Theresa like? And reflections on Christopher Hitchens

We welcome your feedback!

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

061 - Thinking About Logic with Ken Samples

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 06:00:04 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross talk to Christian philosopher Ken Samples about the importance of logic for Christians.

0:30 - Peter Kreeft’s audio series on the Philosophy of Thomas Aquinas
https://a315.co/3gZwXuB
2:45 - Geisler’s book on Thomas Aquinas
https://a315.co/3HZKzl2
3:34 - Intro to Dr. Ken Samples of Reasons to Believe
https://a315.co/3LvRZij
6:00 - Why Christians should not be intimidated by logic
10:12 - Isn’t the Bible enough? Do we really need logic too?
13:05 - How do you define logic, Ken?
16:01 - “But Jesus didn’t teach logic!”
18:49 - How Jesus modeled the use of logic
20:33 - But isn’t logic contrary to being filled with the Spirit?
25:29 - How does critical thinking relate to logic?
29:46 - Where should the logic learner begin?
36:34 - How logic can help us in doing good theology
40:34 - How NOT to turn into the fallacy police
45:38 - Recommended resources
Patrick Hurley’s books on logic:
https://a315.co/3HOCxvu
Attacking Faulty Reasoning:
https://a315.co/3gG3xRZ

Ken Samples’ Logic 101 podcast: ALL lectures on YouTube here:
http://a315.co/KenSamplesLogic

We appreciate your feedback.

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060 - Advice for Apologists

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 06:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross look at some timeless advice from Christian apologists for those doing apologetics.

0:45 - Intro to the topic today
2:39 - Advice from Mark Mittelberg
5:57 - Advice from J.P. Moreland
10:43 - Advice from John Warwick Montgomery
14:53 - Advice from Edgar Andrews
21:48 - Advice from Ken Samples
23:52 - Advice from Rob Bowman
27:42 - Advice from Bruce Little
29:25 - Advice from Craig Blomberg
31:06 - Advice from Peter J. Williams
33:39 - Advice from Lee Strobel
37:24 - Advice from Greg Koukl

Links mentioned in the show:
Mark Mittelberg transcript
https://apologetics315.com/2013/10/mark-mittelberg-interview-transcript/
J.P. Moreland transcript
https://apologetics315.com/2013/02/j-p-moreland-interview-transcript/
John Warwick Montgomery transcript
https://apologetics315.com/2012/11/john-warwick-montgomery-interview-transcript/
Edgar Andrews transcript
https://apologetics315.com/2013/10/edgar-andrews-interview-transcript/
Ken Samples transcript
https://apologetics315.com/2013/06/kenneth-samples-interview-transcript/
Rob Bowman transcript
https://apologetics315.com/2013/05/robert-bowman-interview-transcript/
Bruce Little transcript
https://apologetics315.com/2013/04/bruce-little-interview-transcript/
Craig Blomberg transcript
https://apologetics315.com/2012/12/craig-blomberg-interview-transcript/
Peter J. Williams transcript
https://apologetics315.com/2013/12/peter-j-williams-interview-transcript/
Lee Strobel transcript
https://apologetics315.com/2012/10/lee-strobel-interview-transcript/
Greg Koukl transcript
https://apologetics315.com/2013/09/greg-koukl-interview-transcript/

We appreciate your feedback.

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059 - Logic and 7 Characteristics of a Mature Thinker

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 08:38:56 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross continue to introduce the building blocks of logic, and then go on to talk about 7 Characteristics of a Mature Thinker.

0:22 - 5 Questions for Chad Gross

* The Game Gal’s Word Generator for iOS app
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-game-gals-word-generator/id546236058

5:59 - Chad’s ridiculous GB fact

7:48 - The Building Blocks of Logic

Logic Primer: http://apologetics315.blogspot.com/2009/05/logic-primer-2-building-blocks-of-logic.html

22:32 - Seven Characteristics of a Mature Thinker
https://truthbomb.blogspot.com/2016/08/7-characteristics-of-mature-thinker.html

We appreciate your feedback.

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058 - Artificial Intelligence with Christian Hubbs

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 06:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross talk about Artificial Intelligence with Christian Hubbs (https://www.datahubbs.com/about/)

0:34 - An interview with Richard Swinburne
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Iai3_SUgo0

3:09 - John Lennox & David Gooding series:
https://www.amazon.com/Being-Truly-Human-Freedom-Significance/dp/1912721015

* A great app Brian mentioned for scanning books to PDF:
https://apps.apple.com/in/app/vflat-scan-pdf-scanner/id1540238220
* A great app Brian mentioned for listening to PDFs:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/voice-dream-reader/id496177674

4:17 - Intro to Christian Hubbs
* Artificially Intelligent podcast here: www.artificiallyintelligent.tech

6:04 - Catching up with Christian Hubbs
6:43 - The work Christian does in A.I.
8:17 - How did Christian get involved in apologetics?
10:16 - What are the most common misconceptions about artificial intelligence?
13:14 - How much like a human can AI become?
20:56 - Limitations of AI becoming conscious
22:34 - Where is AI progressing fastest?
27:10 - What is machine learning?
28:10 - Discussing censorship by tech companies
33:24 - Are we living in a computer simulation like Elon Musk says?
36:50 - Is the computer simulation idea a pointer to design?
38:26 - Ethics in the area of artificial intelligence
42:42 - Will AI take away jobs?
47:08 - Discussing a Christian view of technology

We appreciate your feedback.

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057 - How Could Jesus Be The Only Way?

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 06:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross discuss two topics: an introduction to logic, and the topic: How could Jesus be the only way, and what about those who have never heard?

1:55 - Five Questions for Brian Auten
9:20 - A primer on logic: what is logic?
21:22 - How could Jesus be the only way, and what about those who have never heard?

We appreciate your feedback.

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056 - Apologetics in Conversation

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 22:31:59 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross talk about using apologetics in everyday conversation.

• How can we take complex arguments and make them simple?
• How can we turn big ideas into simpler statements?
• Can we turn pieces of an argument into great questions and conversation starters?
• Can you be philosophically informed without using all the jargon in your conversations?
• What should you focus on if the person you are speaking with wants to talk about 100 different topics?
• Lots of practical ideas and insights for using apologetics in everyday conversations.

We appreciate your feedback.

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055 - Is Apologetics Optional?

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 06:00:02 +0000

Today we’re posting an interview that Chad and I did with Susan Morales on her YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yIrxYqMuuIU

We interviewed Susan Morales of Girl Talk Apologetics in episode 048, if you want to check that out as well.

In this interview, Susan asks us about ourselves and our background, why there are Ghostbusters references and quotes in the podcast, my contribution to the book “A new kind of apologist”, how Apologetics315 and TruthBomb Apologetics started, how apologetics has changed our lives, and whether or not apologetics is optional for Christians.

Thanks to Susan Morales for inviting us to the interview on her YouTube channel, and I hope you enjoy the conversation.

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

Interlude - God is the Best Explanation

Tue, 28 Dec 2021 20:36:42 +0000

Just an audio interlude for your listening enjoyment.
Original audio source is the debate between William Lane Craig and Alex Rosenberg: Is Faith in God Reasonable?

Found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhfkhq-CM84

054 - Talk About Doubts with Jonathan McLatchie

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 19:19:20 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Jonathan McLatche. www.jonathanmclatchie.com. They talk about his new resource Talk About Doubts (www.talkaboutdoubts.com).

2:55 - Welcome Jonathan McLatchie
4:50 - What is talkaboutdoubts.com ?
9:06 - How did Jonathan assemble his team of scholars?
12:33 - Is doubting a sin?
15:09 - What are the most common doubts, and do they tend to be more emotional or factual doubts?
21:36 - What does a zoom call about doubts look like? Are doubts answered with information?
27:38 - Do negative church experiences contribute to people’s doubts?
30:53 - How to know if someone is sincerely seeking answers vs. just wanting to argue?
32:52 - What about eastern religions and mysticism?
33:35 - Do personal moral failings ever bring people to doubt?
36:25 - What would Jonathan say to a friend who says they’re just not ready to embrace Christianity?

Check out Jonathan’s resources:
www.jonathanmclatchie.com
www.talkaboutdoubts.com

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

053 - Christmas Cornucopia

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 21:08:16 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross discuss books for reading in the new year, as well as discussing bias, philosophical presuppositions, and the fact that idea can’t do theology without philosophy.

Books recommended:
The Quest for Reality and Significance (John Lennox & David Gooding)
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=the+quest+for+reality+and+significance&sprefix=the+quest+for+reality%2Caps%2C130&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_1_21

Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices by Thomas Brooks
https://www.amazon.com/Precious-Remedies-Against-Devices-Illustrated/dp/1086349644/ref=sr_1_3_sspa?keywords=precious+remedies+against+satan%27s+devices+by+thomas+brooks&qid=1640515798&sprefix=precious+reme%2Caps%2C137&sr=8-3-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyNVI4SDBXR0lIV1lMJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMzg2NjM4MTI4OVE3SjZYRU9UUiZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNDg3MzU1MU9WTEpEU1NVMlBRViZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

Asking the Right Questions
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=asking+the+right+questions+a+guide+to+critical+thinking&sprefix=asking+the+right+%2Caps%2C134&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_1_17

A Year with the Church Fathers:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1935302353?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2_dt_b_product_details

We appreciate your feedback.

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052 - Ghostbusters, Molinism, Debates and Books

Sun, 12 Dec 2021 17:45:51 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross catch up on a variety of topics from Ghostbusters and Molinism to Die Hard, debates and book reviews.

0:22 - Chad’s back from COVID
2:52 - Ghostbusters Afterlife review and SPOILERS
13:29 - Thoughts on the William Lane Craig & James White discussion on Molinism (on the Unbelievable? Radio Show) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECcN-fisQRk
19:55 - A review of A Skeptic’s Search for God by Ralph Muncaster
25:42 - Book preview of Is Reality Secular by Mary Poplin
29:02 - Undesigned coincidences in Die Hard and Ghostbusters!
31:36 - Debates and resources on the internet
34:36 - One year since the reboot of the podcast, reflections

We appreciate your feedback.

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051 - The Wise Man Seeks God

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 18:57:12 +0000

I wanted to share with you an audio this week entitled “the Wise Man Seeks God.”

In 2010 on apologetics 315 I hosted an essay series which involved a number of Christian Apologetics bloggers called “Is Christianity True?”. I recently revised a particular essay, in response to a friend I was having a conversation with about where he is with God. It brought to my mind the idea that if you are not certain that God exists, then you should be seeking him with all your energy.

Pascal wrote in the Pensées a lot of his ideas about seeking God, and much of his outline for his apologetic approach was to appeal to men to seek after God and to get out of their complacency. That resonated with me and so maybe you’ll pick that up my own appeal here.

This essay is my argument and attempt to make a sort of Pascalian appeal to the reader. Not a logical argument that God exists, but that if you don’t know God, then it’s wise to spend all your energy seeking him.

So, I hope you’ll enjoy another flash-back from 10 years ago. But, just like the J. P. Moreland interview from last week, I think that this particular material feels timeless.

We appreciate your feedback.

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050 - J. P. Moreland Replay

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 19:05:36 +0000

Hello this is Brian Auten and I’m NOT joined by Chad Gross today, for reasons we’ll probably elaborate on next week.

So we do not have a new podcast recording for you. However, I do have an older episode from 11 years ago I wanted to share with you. It’s my interview with J. P. Moreland.

If you’ve listened to the podcast for any length of time you know that Chad and I really appreciate Dr. Moreland and his work, so I thought I’d share this one from the archive. Although it’s old, it was, I think, loaded with great insights from J. P. Moreland. So until next week, enjoy!

We appreciate your feedback.

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049 - Evangelism and Apologetics with Dave Sterrett

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 06:00:15 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Dave Sterrett about his new book Jesus Conversations: Effective Everyday Engagement. They discuss conversations, evangelism and apologetics.

0:22 - Windscreen gnats and podcast flies
3:11 - Introduction to Dave Sterrett
6:34 - Welcome to Dave, and who does his taxes?
11:09 - Why write Jesus Conversations?
14:40 - The importance of getting back to the basics
16:38 - How to start conversations with people
21:20 - The challenge of speaking with people who know us well
24:23 - The importance of scripture memorization
26:55 - The relationship between apologetics and evangelism
31:22 - Should we just use our testimony?
34:32 - Is there a danger of forgetting about evangelism?
38:25 - Engaging with people with differing religious beliefs
43:40 - Advice for a long-term relationship with a seeker
49:42 - Where to find further resources:

Get Dave’s book Jesus Conversations: Effective Everyday Engagement
https://www.christianbook.com/jesus-conversations-effective-everyday-engagement/dave-sterrett/9781683073123/pd/073123?event=ESRCN

Dave Sterrett’s website
www.disruptivetruth.com

More about Dave Sterrett
www.disruptivetruth.com/bio

Further books by Dave Sterrett here:
https://www.amazon.com/Dave-Sterrett/e/B002S9DVW0?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1637532584&sr=8-1

We appreciate your feedback.

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048 - Girl Talk Apologetics with Susan Morales

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 19:40:19 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Susan Morales of Girl Talk Apologetics. They discuss the online book study group for women, homeschooling, and apologetics.

0:31 - Skip this part if you don’t want to hear about Ghostbusters
2:49 - Intro to Susan Morales
4:16 - A bit about Susan and how she got into apologetics
8:39 - Becoming a home-schooling mother of two
10:30 - What is Girl Talk Apologetics and how did it get started?
13:30 - The guests that have been interviewed with Girl Talk Apologetics
17:09 - Why aren’t more women active in apologetics?
19:46 - Incorporating apologetics into parenting
22:33 - Challenges for home-schooling moms
25:18 - Advice for moms wanting tips with apologetics & parenting
28:00 - A bit about Susan’s music

More resources from Susan Morales:

Susan Morales’ website
www.susanmorales.org

Girl Talk Apologetics website
www.girltalkapologetics.com

Find out about their next book study by emailing here:
girltalkapologetics@gmail.com

Susan Morales on YouTube
www.youtube.com/c/SusanMorales

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

047 - Demonization with Dr. Karl Payne

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 06:00:13 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross have a second interview with Dr. Karl Payne and discuss the topic of demonization, from his book Spiritual Warfare: Christians, Demonization and Deliverance. This interview goes into more detail on the topic of deliverance. If you have not yet heard the first interview (Ep.42), check it out here.
https://apologetics315.com/2021/10/apologetics-315-podcast-042-spiritual-warfare-with-karl-payne/

1:22 - Intro to Dr. Karl Payne
2:41 - What is demonization and how can it be recognized?
16:41 - What’s the difference between demonization and oppression?
25:30 - What do Karl’s accounts of demonic deliverance look like?
29:27 - The “ground rules” that change the dynamic of confronting the demonic
33:45 - Is there a danger of going beyond what the scripture says?
35:09 - The role of fear in keeping people from walking in authority
40:50 - Not being ignorant of the devil’s schemes
43:55 - Can people do “self-deliverance” and how?
54:55 - What about the role of addictions in dealing with spiritual warfare?
1:08:10 - Advice for people doing deliverance
1:15:50 - How should Christians think about their entertainment choices?

Spiritual Warfare: Christians, Demonization and Deliverance https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Warfare-Christians-Demonization-Deliverance-ebook/dp/B08L7DS15N

Karl Payne’s discipleship materials can be found here:
https://transferablecrosstraining.org/online-store/

Karl’s bio can be found here:
https://transferablecrosstraining.org/about-dr-payne/

We appreciate your feedback.

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046 - Cornucopia of Topics

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 18:01:26 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross discuss a cornucopia of topics, including Dune, historical apologetics sources, Mars Hill, John Wesley, Intelligent Design and science, and music recommendations.

1:09 - A quick Dune movie rating
3:09 - The first topic: reading the original sources
10:25 - Reading Paley for the first time
18:02 - The helpfulness of listening to debates
19:53 - Further discussion of the Rise and Fall of Mars Hill podcast
32:35 - John Wesley’s 22 questions of self-examination
39:31 - Is Intelligent Design science? Chad’s view
50:32 - Brian’s 2 favorite albums
56:23 - Listener “email” and Chad laughs (cries?)

Links:
Classical Readings in Christian Apologetics - book review:
https://apologetics315.com/2008/07/book-review-classical-readings-in-christian-apologetics/

The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill podcast:
https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/podcasts/rise-and-fall-of-mars-hill/

John Wesley’s 22 Questions (PDF):
http://www.mooreschapel.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Self-Examination-John-Wesley-22-Questions-2018.pdf

MUTEMATH “Changes” album:
https://music.apple.com/gb/album/changes/1143558408

twenty one pilots “Trench” album:
https://music.apple.com/us/album/trench/1422828208

twenty one pilots - The MUTEMATH sessions (video):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JfEFq_NRZu4

We appreciate your feedback.

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045 - Dealing with Doubt after Losing Trust

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 05:00:11 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross address the topic of dealing with doubts after losing in trust. They also discuss William Lane Craig’s book on the historical Adam.

0:26 - Weather, seasons, and fun facts about Northern Ireland
3:43 - Resource about Halloween: Ken Samples - The Tricky Topic of Halloween
4:31 - “The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill” podcast, and takeaways
8:49 - The Quest for the Historical Adam by William Lane Craig; questions and impressions. Interviews with WLC about the book:
Justin Brierley’s interview:
Sean McDowell’s Interview:
Reasonable Faith podcasts:
15:29 - A surge of posts at Truthbomb Apologetics:
http://truthbomb.blogspot.com/
The Chick-fil-A argument for the resurrection:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKjX6yk-WJQ
16:59 - Feedback on the Karl Payne Spiritual Warfare Interview
Spiritual Warfare for 1.99 on Kindle:
https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Warfare-Christians-Demonization-Deliverance-ebook/dp/B08L7DS15N
17:48 - Listener question about Doubt
18:54 - Brian’s advice for dealing with doubt
28:50 - Chad’s advice for dealing with doubt

Further resources for dealing with doubt:

The New Evidence that Demands a Verdict by Sean McDowell and Josh McDowell
https://www.amazon.com/Evidence-That-Demands-Verdict-Life-Changing-ebook/dp/B01MYP99J3

Are the Gospels Reliable? by Peter J. Williams
https://www.amazon.com/Can-We-Trust-the-Gospels/dp/B085LV4NDP
Cold-Case Christianity by J. Warner Wallace

https://www.amazon.com/Cold-Case-Christianity-Homicide-Detective-Investigates/dp/1434704696

God’s Crime Scene by J. Warner Wallace
https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Crime-Scene-Cold-Case-Detective-ebook/dp/B00RKTCXCC

I Don’t Have Enough Faith to be an Atheist by Frank Turek and Norm Geisler
https://www.amazon.com/Enough-Faith-Atheist-Foreword-Limbaugh-ebook/dp/B0029RJ7D8

The Thomas Factor by Gary Habermas
http://garyhabermas.com/books/thomas_factor/thomas_factor.htm

Gary Habermas’ book Dealing with Doubt:
http://garyhabermas.com/books/dealing_with_doubt/dealing_with_doubt.htm

How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth:
https://www.amazon.com/How-Read-Bible-All-Worth-ebook/dp/

Website - Michael J. Kruger at Canon Fodder
https://www.michaeljkruger.com/

We appreciate your feedback.

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044 - Mama Bears Guide to Sexuality with Hillary Morgan Ferrar

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 05:00:17 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Hillary Morgan Ferrar on the topics covered in the newly released book Mama Bear Apologetics Guide to Sexuality: Empowering Your Kids to Understand and Live Out God’s Design. Lots of great nuggets and insights in this one.

0:32 - What’s new in the land of Gozer, Chad?
2:11 - Intro to the interview and the content of Hillary’s newest book
4:40 - A bit about Hillary and her background in apologetics
6:49 - Intro to Mama Bear apologetics’ new guide to sexuality
11:23 - How has “the sex talk” changed from the previous generation?
17:01 - The cheapening of sex and marriage
18:00 - How the book is structured as a tool for parents
21:34 - Affirming the right messages in culture, rejecting the wrong
24:23 - Chad loves the song Roar…
24:53 - Can’t we just “shelter our kids” from culture? And the backfiring of “purity culture”
31:24 - Advice for parents who have kids struggling with issues of sexuality and gender
35:35 - Advice for parents of children who have rejected traditional views of sexuality
41:03 - What are the biggest obstacles today for parents?
44:27 - Regular apologetics can seem easy compared to the cultural challenges we see today—how to overcome fear
47:48 - Useful maxims for parents in raising their children
50:41 - Where to find Hillary’s book and resources:

Mama Bear Apologetics:
mamabearapologetics.com
The book on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0971ZKX5B
About Hillary Morgan Ferrar:
https://mamabearapologetics.com/about/meet-the-mama-bears/

We appreciate your feedback.

If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

043 - Person of Interest with J. Warner Wallace

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 05:00:19 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview cold-case homicide detective J. Warner Wallace about his newest book, Person of Interest: Why Jesus Still Matters in a World that Rejects the Bible.

2:10 - About J. Warner Wallace and the interview
8:41 - Welcome to J. Warner Wallace
8:56 - How does cold-case detective work relate to the historical Jesus?
15:55 - What was the timeline of Jim’s journey?
20:40 - Appeal to original sources, or appeal to experts?
22:53 - The “fuse” leading up to the life of Jesus…
32:35 - Why didn’t Jesus show up sooner, or even later in history?
36:18 - Three persuasive strands of the “fuse” leading up to Jesus
46:14 - J. Warner Wallace is just a deep-fake in this interview…
48:11 - The “fallout” after the life of Jesus… and Elvis biographers
57:48 - Jesus’ impact on science, art, music, literature and world religions
1:03:06 - “Just one more question…”—how does Jim respond to a criticism of his approach?
1:12:56 - Where can people find more resources?

More resources for the book can be found here:
www.personofinterestbook.com
watch.ignitertv.com/person-of-interest
The book on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Person-Interest-Jesus-Matters-Rejects-ebook/dp/B08NHXN7G7

About J. Warner Wallace
J. WARNER WALLACE is a Dateline-featured cold-case homicide detective, popular national speaker, and bestselling author. His is a Senior Fellow at the Colson Center for Christian Worldview, and Adjunct Professor of Apologetics at Talbot School of Theology (Biola University). Relying on over two decades of investigative experience, Wallace provides the tools needed to investigate the claims of Christianity and make a convincing case for the truth of the Christian worldview.
Learn more at www.coldcasechristianity.com

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042 - Spiritual Warfare with Karl Payne

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 18:48:21 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Dr. Karl Payne and discuss his book Spiritual Warfare: Christians, Demonization and Deliverance. This interview is loaded with real-world stories and packed with scripture and practical application for the Christian.

0:22 - Intro to the topic of spiritual warfare
1:12 - About Karl Payne
10:27 - Karl’s background in discipleship and apologetics
21:11 - What changed Karl’s view on the reality of spiritual warfare?
31:23 - Why use a threefold model to describe demonic influence? (Oppression, demonization & possession)
45:15 - How to discern between the world, the flesh and the devil
1:07:07 - What’s the difference between demonization and mental illnesses? How do we deal with them?
1:11:12 - How does sin play a role in demonization?
1:13:56 - What is the process Karl uses when interviewing someone about their struggles with the demonic?
1:39:18 - Do some things only come out by prayer and fasting?
1:47:51 - Where to find more resources…

Spiritual Warfare is on sale for 1.99 on Kindle during the month of October (2021). Find it here.
https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Warfare-Christians-Demonization-Deliverance-ebook/dp/B08L7DS15N

Karl Payne’s discipleship materials can be found here:
https://transferablecrosstraining.org/online-store/

Karl’s bio can be found here:
https://transferablecrosstraining.org/about-dr-payne/

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041 - Cultural Apologetics with Paul Gould

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 05:00:08 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Christian philosopher Paul Gould about his book Cultural Apologetics: Renewing the Christian Voice, Conscience, and Imagination in a Disenchanted World.

0:26 - Intro to Paul Gould
4:26 - Paul’s background and how he got into apologetics
9:56 - Have we focused too much on making Christianity plausible and too little on making Christianity appealing?
12:09 - Paul on Mars Hill as the model for cultural apologetics
17:59 - Reflections on Pascal’s use of apologetics and viewing culture
21:48 - Is cultural apologetics the best way to address the more volatile issues in culture, and how?
25:00 - We can’t only use evidence and expect buy-in
25:38 - Appealing to happiness and man’s deepest longings
30:30 - C.S. Lewis’s metaphor of looking along the beam of light
33:40 - The good, the true, and the beautiful appeals to everyone
34:58 - An interaction with Paul Draper
36:14 - What does going out and being a cultural apologist look like?
41:43 - Who has done some of the best work in cultural apologetics?
47:53 - Who do you enjoy reading in philosophy?
50:20 - Further resources from Paul Gould:

www.twotasksinstitute.org
The Eudo Podcast
https://www.twotasksinstitute.org/podcast/
www.paul-gould.com

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040 - Rationality vs Bigotry

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 18:48:46 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross first review their first impressions of J. Warner Wallace’s new book, Person of Interest. Chad then presents an argument that disagreeing with homosexual behavior is not bigotry, but instead is rational and compassionate.

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039 - The Power of Testimonies with Erik Manning

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 17:48:06 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross have a conversation with Erik Manning from the Testify YouTube channel about the power of testimonies and his initiative to interview his subscribers about their experiences.

1:47 - Subscriber give-away announcement
3:36 - Intro to Erik Manning for another visit to Ap315
5:49 - About the channel and the subscriber testimonies
12:07 - The impact and power of testimonies of miracles
14:30 - The cumulative effect of lots of testimonies
15:11 - Erik Manning’s interview with Dr. Craig Keener
16:14 - Sign up for your testimony sharing HERE!
18:06 - What sort of evidence are you looking for?
23:09 - Brian suggests that Jesus agrees that extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence
28:28 - The difference between a claim and an event
31:57 - Religiously charged contexts are important factors in looking at the evidence that a miracle has occurred
33:39 - Where to find out more about Bayes Theorem
35:46 - The difference between “minimal facts” and “maximal facts” and a discussion about the pros and cons
50:20 - wrapping up the minimal facts discussion
Here’s where to find it all:

Fill out the testimony form:
https://forms.gle/yCzBERpkuEFP2U8U7

The “Testify with me!” Video that started it all:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZIKhpDckEI

Support Erik on Patreon here:
https://www.patreon.com/isjesusalive

Testify YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCadiEsTZ0hNxs5OxwGiyELQ

Erik’s website: www.isjesusalive.com

We appreciate your feedback.

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038 - Listener Question with Kurt Jaros

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 05:00:05 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross have a conversation with Kurt Jaros about perspectives and possible answers to a listener question about original sin and God’s judgment of those who have not heard.

0:22 - Chad asks Brian an important question
3:57 - Intro to Kurt Jaros
5:29 - Welcome to Kurt
7:47 - How Kurt deals with stress & Chad’s suggestion
9:46 - Listener email & question of the day
10:40 - Kurt explores various views of those who have not heard the Gospel
27:34 - What does the questioner mean by “sin nature”?
30:57- Important distinctions about sin nature
32:35 - What role does free will play?
34:50 - Would it have been better not to have been created?
40:51 - Looking at the question starting with God as a perfect judge
45:24 - How can one adjust one’s view to make better sense of the issue?
47:18 - The assumptions of the question

Kurt Jaros’s resources…
Kurt’s website: https://kurtjaros.com/
Kurt on Twitter https://twitter.com/tkjaros

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037 - Pastoral Apologetics with Phil Fernandes

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 15:54:41 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Dr. Phil Fernandes on the topic of apologetics as it relates to pastoring. Lots of insights and stories in this episode!

2:08 - Recommended YouTube channel: Acts 17 Apologetics
5:00 - Intro to Dr. Phil Fernandes
6:38 - Phil’s background
10:36 - A story of Phil being mistaken for Columbo?
17:55 - Character among Christian apologists
19:43 - Topics that need addressed in our current culture
23:09 - Paranormal apologetics
25:23 - Cultural apologetics
29:39 - Karl Payne’s book on Spiritual Warfare
32:53 - How do pastoring and apologetics relate to one another?
41:32 - Advice to pastors on the need for apologetics
51:39 - Advice for those doing apologetics; hard-earned lessons, advice for debates
59:35 - What is question-bombing and how to address it
1:02:59 - Resources and books by Dr. Phil Fernandes

www.philfernandes.org
https://www.amazon.com/kindle-dbs/entity/author/B00IXX09Y8
Sermon Audio:
https://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?speakeronly=true&currsection=sermonsspeaker&keyword=Dr._Phil_Fernandes

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036 - Cultural Apologetics with Lenny Esposito

Sun, 22 Aug 2021 05:00:12 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview apologist Lenny Esposito on cultural apologetics, superhero movies, and ministry on the internet.

0:36 - Introduction to Lenny Esposito
2:47 - Apologetics and the dawn of the internet
4:44 - Old school internet apologetics
5:29 - Is Lenny related to famous hockey players?
6:40 - Are there any resources still lacking for apologetics today?
10:48 - Defining and describing cultural apologetics
16:47 - Grounding common cultural values in the Christian worldview
19:18 - Can we transition from cultural talking points to Christian truth?
23:22 - How superhero movies illustrate cultural values
26:00 - Symbiote Spider man and sin
28:11 - Forrest Gump and gospel reliability
31:40 - Chad is sad that Forrest Gump is not historical
31:57 - The trend toward anti-heroes and what it shows about culture
37:16 - Falcon and Winter Soldier
42:45 - Lenny’s writing a book about superhero movies and apologetics
45:58 - If God exists, why did he allow the Last Jedi?
48:14 - Chesterton and dragons
51:59 - Lenny’s resources:

Lenny’s Website:
www.comereason.org
Come Let Us Reason Podcast:
podcast.comereason.org
Lenny Esposito on Twitter:
www.twitter.com/comereason

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035 - Interview Reflections

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 05:00:07 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross answer the mailbag and then review the past 14 episodes and the interview guests, sharing insights and things learned.

0:29 - News from the world of Gozer
4:39 - Mailbag feedback
12:10 - The Stephen C. Meyer interview
15:58 - The Ken Samples episodes
19:17 - Katy Faust and Them Before Us
24:11 - The Michael J. Nelson interview
29:40 - The Ted Wright archaeology interview
31:45 - The rhetoric interview with Jim Beitler
33:32 - Apologetics for parents with Michael D’Virgilio
36:58 - The Molinism interview with Tim Stratton
38:41 - The Christian Enneagram with Marcia Montenegro
41:23 - Spiritual warfare reading (Karl Payne book)
45:27 - The Miracles interview with Craig Keener

We appreciate your feedback.

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034 - Miracles Today with Craig Keener

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 05:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Dr. Craig Keener, F. M. and Ada Thompson Professor of Biblical Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary. They discuss his most recent book Miracles Today: The Supernatural Work of God in the Modern World. Are miracles happening today? How do we evaluate miracle claims? How do we know if witnesses are credible? Many accounts and stories of healing and miracles are discussed.

To purchase Dr. Keener's courses on Logos: http://www.logos.com/craig-keener

0:42 - Introduction to Dr. Craig Keener
6:49 - Welcome to Dr. Keener; what compelled you to write a book on miracles in the world today?
10:40 - How this book is different than his previous miracles book
11:32 - What is a miracle and how do we define them? A discussion of Hume’s definition
15:20 - What criteria do we use when assessing miracle claims?
17:39 - Are some miracle claims ambiguous? What type of miracle accounts does the book discuss?
19:47 - Two accounts of dramatic healing
23:36 - What sort of environment do these miracles happen in? An account of deteriorated hip bones being healed.
29:14 - What role do presuppositions play in how we look at miracle claims? How high is the bar for evidence?
33:28 - Does “uniform human experience” invalidate miracle claims?
37:27 - “That account is too old,” “That account is too far away,” and other objections
43:06 - Do we have any miracles on video? (Yes)
47:07 - What would you say to someone who has been praying for a miracle or healing and has not experienced it yet? A discussion on cutting edge evangelism and miracles
51:44 - Does God heal amputees?
52:22 - Responses to common “internet objections”
54:38 - What about people being raised from the dead?
59:20 - Cumulative evidence of multiple claims, and the height of skepticism; how to critically evaluate claims
1:00:17 - What would you say to someone wanting God to prove himself to them through an appearance or miracle?
1:02:26 - How has your faith been strengthened by researching miracles?

http://www.craigkeener.com
Craig Keener’s two-volume work on New Testament Miracles here:
https://www.amazon.com/Miracles-volumes-Credibility-Testament-Accounts-ebook/dp/B007KOI2PY
https://asburyseminary.edu/faculty/craig-keener/
Pre-order Miracles Today on Amazon here:
https://www.amazon.com/Miracles-Today-Supernatural-Modern-World/dp/1540963837
Find more books by Dr. Craig Keener:
https://www.amazon.com/Craig-S-Keener/e/B000APBKEK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2&qid=1628348623&sr=8-2

If you have a question for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

033 - The Enneagram with Marcia Montenegro

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 07:57:07 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Marcia Montenegro about the Enneagram and its new age origins as well as its influence in Christian circles.

2:05 - Intro to Marcia Montenegro and her background
4:09 - Why talk to a former astrologer?
10:12 - Welcome to Marcia
11:17 - How Marcia got into the New Age movement and became an astrologer; how God led her out
25:19 - Is New Age fake, false or both? What’s behind it?
29:45 - Is there a spiritual dimension behind psychic readings?
30:31 - A couple stories of special knowledge from spirit guides
40:33 - What is the Enneagram and where did it come from?
59:43 - Marcia’s recent debate with Todd Wilson on the Unbelievable? radio show
1:01:10 - Is Marcia committing the genetic fallacy?
1:02:35 - No scientific evidence for the Enneagram
1:14:14 - What would you say to a Christian that things that the Enneagram is helpful and harmless?
1:20:14 - The swath of books by Christian publishers on the Enneagram
1:27:24 - More debate reflections; is the Enneagram just a passing fad?
1:29:10 - Where to find more resources:

www.christiananswersforthenewage.org
Richard Rohr and the Enneagram Secret
https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Rohr-Enneagram-Secret-Veinot/dp/1098306546

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032 - Too Good To Be False with Tom Gilson

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 05:00:05 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Tom Gilson, the Senior Editor and Ministry Coordinator at The Stream. They discuss his book Too Good To Be False: How Jesus’ Incomparable Character Reveals His Reality.

0:30 - The Dukes of Hazzard intro
1:30 - Intro to Tom Gilson
5:01 - About Tom and his work and background
7:25 - Where did the idea for this book come from?
10:47 - A brief summary of the book
12:43 - Jesus didn’t have faith?
16:53 - You can’t make this stuff up
17:42 - What the argument is NOT and what it is
21:37 - Arguing for the best explanation
23:56 - The most common misconceptions and misunderstandings
26:27 - How would Bertrand Russell respond?
30:35 - The Facebook objection
34:13 - The book’s focus on Jesus and his character
34:36 - Positive feedback from readers
37:07 - Where to download a free chapter: thinkingchristian.net

Tom’s resources:
www.thinkingchristian.net
www.stream.org
The book:
https://www.amazon.com/Too-Good-False-Incomparable-Character-ebook/dp/B0979QLJXJ

If you have a question for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

031 - Molinism with Tim Stratton

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 05:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Tim Stratton of Free Thinking Ministries. They discuss the topic of Molinism as it relates to God’s sovereignty, human free will, and why it matters. Tim’s book on the subject is Human Freedom, Divine Knowledge, and Mere Molinism: A Biblical, Historical, Theological, and Philosophical Analysis.

1:03 - Intro to Tim Stratton
1:41 - Why Molinism on the podcast?
3:20 - Welcome to Tim Stratton
3:54 - How Tim became a Christian
9:37 - God as a maximally great being
10:43 - Tim’s dissertation
11:18 - What does Tim find compelling about Molinism?
12:42 - The Mere Molinism Facebook group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/4070368643044867
16:14 - What is the problem that Molinism is trying to solve?
22:47 - How to briefly summarize Molinism?
23:41 - Defining terms: Middle knowledge and counterfactuals
31:39 - Scriptures that affirm counterfactuals / middle knowledge
41:53 - Why us the term “mere” Molinism?
46:22 - Can Molinism be applied to salvation?
48:21 - Does this chess analogy work?
52:10 - Objection: Molinism is not derived from scripture
58:23 - Objection: Who cares? That’s just for scholars and theologians
1:02:45 - How Molinism saved Tim’s marriage
1:06:20 - Where to find Tim’s resources

Tim’s YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjoJHrgHyjBgOiSTxFT0Dag
Free Thinking Ministrires
https://freethinkingministries.com/
Tim’s Bio
https://freethinkingministries.com/tim-stratton/
Free Thinking Podcasts
https://freethinkingministries.com/free-thinking-podcasts/
Human Freedom, Divine Knowledge, and Mere Molinism: A Biblical, Historical, Theological, and Philosophical Analysis.
https://www.amazon.com/Human-Freedom-Divine-Knowledge-Molinism-ebook/dp/B08LL3Q3T5

If you have a question for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

030 - Apologetics for Parents with Mike D'Virgilio

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 14:01:36 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Mike D'Virgilio on the topic of apologetics for parents. He is author of the book The Persuasive Christian Parent: God’s Provision for Building an Enduring Faith in You and Your Children.

www.persuasivechristianparent.com

0:44 - Introduction to our Mike D'Virgilio and the topic of parenting with apologetics
4:25 - Mike’s background and how he got into apologetics
6:59 - What inspired Mike to write a book on apologetics and parenting
7:50 - J.P. Moreland’s endorsement, and the importance of using apologetics when raising your kids
11:43 - The plausibility of Christianity, and the threat of children falling away from the faith
16:06 - The importance of emphasising the truth
18:07 - Emphasising reality and the facts of life experience
20:47 - Embedding right expectations in our kids
23:06 - The outline of topics covered in the Persuasive Christian Parent book
25:23 - Plausibility structures, certainty, and epistemology
29:34 - Ways that we can approach bringing apologetics into our parenting
31:48 - Should we just let our children just find their own way, or are we brainwashing them?
33:30 - Loving the Lord with all our mind, AND training our kids
35:18 - Are there ways you would have raised your kids differently?
35:44 - Modelling and not being afraid to allow your kids to see you fail
37:06 - How to teach kids about controversial topics
43:05 - Where to find Mike’s book and resources:

www.persuasivechristianparent.com

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029 - Rhetoric with Jim Beitler

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 05:00:09 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Jim Beitler, Associate Professor of English at Wheaton College, and author of Seasoned Speech: Rhetoric in the Life of the Church as well as Charitable Writing: Cultivating Virtue Through Our Words (with co-author Richard Hughes Gibson). They discuss rhetoric and communication in relation to Christian Apologetics.

0:27 - Introduction to rhetoric and Jim Beitler
4:36 - Jim’s background and books
5:37 - What is rhetoric?
6:32 - How Jim got interested in rhetoric
7:18 - How has rhetoric been taught, and how has that changed?
10:20 - Can rhetoric be taught?
11:48 - Why should anyone care about rhetoric in the church?
14:20 - Are you an effective communicator or not?
15:44 - Doesn’t the Bible argue against using rhetoric?
19:11 - How the book is laid out and the ground it covers
22:52 - C.S. Lewis as a rhetorician
25:25 - How we need rhetoric now more than ever
27:19 - Dietrich Bonhoeffer on preaching and rhetoric
30:37 - Rhetoric in sermons and preaching
33:37 - How to apply the tools of rhetoric with discernment
38:20 - Modern thinkers and communicators we can learn from
41:49 - Being culture makers
42:40 - Some pitfalls to avoid
45:13 - A teaser for Charitable Writing

• James Beitler at Wheaton
• Seasoned Speech: Rhetoric in the Life of the Church
• Charitable Writing: Cultivating Virtue Through Our Words

If you have a question for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

028 - Biblical Archaeology with Ted Wright

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 05:00:16 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview archaeologist Ted Wright of Epic Archaeology.

0:29 - Introducing Ted Wright of Epic Archaeology
2:00 - What got Ted into archaeology?
4:00 - What you’ll find at EpicArchaeology.org
6:12 - More about Ted’s background in apologetics
9:44 - What is the actual job of an archaeologist?
15:30 - Being chased by Nazis
19:03 - The role that archaeology plays in defending the Bible?
23:00 - “Archaeological evidence for Jesus does not exist…”
29:40 - What sorts of things in the Holy Land are legit?
35:43 - Unpacking archaeological evidence for the exodus
48:39 - Dating of the exodus
56:04 - How to think through the accounts of “the Canaanite genocide question”
1:03:00 - Cool archaeological discoveries that support the Old and New Testaments
1:13:00 - Where to find more great archaeological resources:

ESV and NIV Archaeological Study Bible
The Case for Biblical Archaeology by Dr. John Currid
Doing Archaeology in the Land of the Bible by Dr. John Currid
EpicArchaeology.org
Epic Archaeology on YouTube
Podcast: Monocle and Spade

If you have a question for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

027 - Michael J Nelson Interview

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 05:00:06 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview comedian Michael J. Nelson about his work in comedy, his apologetics podcast, sharing the faith and what he’s learned from watching the worst movies of all time.

0:56 - Intro to a unique interview with Michael J. Nelson
2:30 - Who is Mike Nelson and what is Mystery Science Theater 3000?
4:05 - How did MST3K come about?
5:00 - How Mike became a Christian and what inspired him to make an apologetics podcast? (Like Trees Walking)
7:20 - Did apologetics play a big role in Mike’s life?
9:30 - The role of apologetics with interactions with friends and family relationships
12:19 - Biggest apologetic influences
13:34 - What does “Like Trees Walking” mean as a podcast title?
16:13 - How to be a Christian in the entertainment industry
18:12 - Rifftrax - and does making that kind of content get old?
20:34 - Navigating the ins and outs of humor and Hollywood content
23:38 - Profound wisdom learned from watching culture’s garbage
24:52 - Mike’s take on “Christian movies” and entertainment
27:15 - The worst movie of all time
28:10 - The most over-rated movie franchise of all time
30:20 - Favorite argument for the existence of God
31:45 - Mike’s worst stand-up comedy bomb ever
35:05 - Trapped in an elevator with Richard Dawkins
36:44 - “Do you like movies about gladiators?”
38:05 - What persuades you most the Christianity is true?
42:16 - What is the most quotable movie?
45:10 - Mike’s sound rig setup, and a story of 8 billion pennies
46:50 - Where to find all Mike’s stuff

Like Trees Walking (Apologetics podcast)
liketreeswalkingpod.com

Rifftrax.com
Commentaries for B-movie oddities and Hollywood blockbusters.

372 Pages We’ll Never Get Back
http://372pages.com/

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026 - Them Before Us with Katy Faust

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 08:12:16 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten, Chad Gross and The Belfast Bigot interview Katy Faust about the global children’s rights movement (and book): Them Before Us.

0:38 - Pre-show chat; The Belfast Bigot and the original Bigot.
2:38 - Introduction to Katy Faust and how she got into running a global children’s rights movement
6:43 - How Katy went from being anonymous to going public
7:49 - How Katy influenced the Belfast Bigot
9:40 - The goal of the Them Before Us movement / organization
13:36 - How does Katy hear from kids whose parents prioritize their own desire above children's rights
15:31 - What do we mean when we talk about “rights”?
20:09 - Why children’s rights is something that all political parties should prioritize
24:33 - Three staples of a child’s social/emotional diet
25:27 - How dads are not always the idiots; men and women are different
32:58 - “How are you not pushing a religious view?” and “you’re just shrouding religious views in secular arguments.”
36:11 - Let the data do the talking; disagreeing with reality and biology
38:21 - Can’t same-sex parents do just as good of a job at raising kids?
41:44 - “You’re just hand-picking these stories!”
44:20 - The data we do and don’t have; society is experimenting
47:34 - The psychological damage to children from losing a parent
50:13 - The practical application of “Them Before Us”
53:38 - How does one engage with these topics when people are so quick to label you a bigot or a -phobe?
57:52 - Having reasonable conversations
1:00:17 - Discussion of exceptions to the rules; dishonest argumentation; appeals to acceptance, etc.
1:05:28 - Reproductive technologies and the buying and selling of humans
1:07:51 - Where to find more resources

www.thembeforeus.com

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025 - Ken Samples - Is Christianity Good?

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 05:00:17 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Christian philosopher Ken Samples on topics from his newest book Christianity Cross-Examined. This is part 2 of a 2-part interview.

2:03 - The types of questions people are asking today about Christianity. Killing in the name of God, the Crusades, violence, etc.
4:19 - Approaching the subject of slavery. What does the Bible actually say?
10:43 - What about killing in the name of God?
18:01 - What about so-called genocides in the Bible?
25:03 - Presuppositional approaches to moral objections against God.
28:44 - What about hypocrisy in the church?
37:06 - Walking through healing from wounds from fallen leaders.
42:08 - Brian’s encouragement and prayer.
47:08 - Ken’s encouragement for those who do not believe.

www.reasons.org

If you have a question for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

024 - Ken Samples - Is Christianity True?

Mon, 31 May 2021 17:22:22 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Christian philosopher Ken Samples on topics from his newest book Christianity Cross-Examined. This is part 1 of a 2-part interview.

1:33 - Chad’s twitter encounters for the week.
6:43 - Weekly Mailbag
8:14 - Intro to Ken Samples
9:34 - Welcome to Ken Samples
9:52 - Ken’s current work and what he’s seeing in apologetics today.
11:28 - The need and impact of logic and critical thinking.
12:22 - The goal of the Ken’s book
14:16 - Two types of atheists Ken has encountered.
16:46 - What has contributed to the shift in what sorts of questions people are asking about Christianity?
20:19 - The impact of rhetoric in influencing people for or against the Gospel.
22:41 - The power of a cumulative case; the way inductive, deductive and abductive arguments work.
23:51 - Abduction as a form of reasoning.
31:06 - If God really existed, we wouldn’t need arguments…
39:54 - How Christianity welcomes science and reason.
41:31 - The three things you need in order to do science.
48:26 - A discussion on analogies for the trinity.
54:30 - Where to start when talking to others about Jesus. A discussion of apologetic methodology.

www.reasons.org

If you have a question for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

023 - Apologetics in Your Church

Mon, 24 May 2021 13:13:29 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross make a case for doing apologetics and talk about how YOU can get apologetics into YOUR church.

0:50 - Rapid fire questions with Chad.
1:29 - Is “someone with an experience never at the mercy of someone with an argument”?
9:45 - Why the resurrection is Chad’s favorite argument
11:37 - Introduction to getting apologetic in your church
12:29 - Geisler’s case for apologetics in general
19:47 - Apologetics modelled in scripture
26:27 - 7 Reasons why the church needs apologetics
32:58 - How Truthbomb apologetics started in the local church
38:38 - How Brian started a Reasonable Faith chapter
40:53 - The 2-part ebook How to Get Apologetics in Your Church
44:47 - The benefits of starting a local group
48:22 - The community aspect of your own apologetics study group
52:35 - The quickest advice for starting something in your church

Resources:
How to Get Apologetics in Your Church e-book Part 1
http://apologetics315.com/media/Apologetics-In-Church-Podcast/HowtoGetApologeticsinYourChurch.pdf

How to Get Apologetics in Your Church Podcast Part 1
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/how-to-get-apologetics-in-your-church/id392080138

How to Get Apologetics in Your Church e-book Part 2
http://apologetics315.s3.amazonaws.com/church-apologetics-2/How%20to%20Get%20Apologetics%20in%20Your%20Church%202.pdf

How to Get Apologetics in Your Church Podcast Part 2
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-get-apologetics-in-your-church-2/id522500696

http://apologetics315.blogspot.com/2012/05/how-to-get-apologetics-in-your-church-2_828.html

http://apologetics315.blogspot.com/2010/09/how-to-get-apologetics-in-your-church.html

https://www.reasonablefaith.org/chapters/

If you have a question for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

022 - Prophecies, Books, and Warfare

Mon, 17 May 2021 18:32:49 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross address a listener question about prophecy, discuss recent books they have been reading, and explore some thoughts on the reality of spiritual warfare in the Christian life.

Links mentioned in the show:
• Wayne Grudem’s Systematic Theology
https://www.amazon.com/Systematic-Theology-Second-Introduction-Biblical-ebook/dp/B085XNN5H1

• Wayne Grudem’s podcast episode on prophecy
https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/gifts-of-the-holy-spirit-prophecy/id322844869?i=1000082948644

• Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices by Thomas Brooks
https://www.amazon.com/Precious-Remedies-Against-Satans-Devices/dp/B01COQNXQ0

• Abide in Christ by Andrew Murray
https://www.amazon.com/Andrew-Murray-Books-Abide-Christ-ebook/dp/B076QFY8D6

If you have a question for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

021 - Return of the God Hypothesis with Stephen C. Meyer

Mon, 10 May 2021 05:00:09 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Dr. Stephen C. Meyer on his latest book Return of the God Hypothesis.

0:43 - Intro to Dr. Stephen Meyer, author of Return of the God Hypothesis, Signature in the Cell, and Darwin’s Doubt.
3:00 - Dr. Meyer’s background, education, and how he got interested in the question of intelligent design.
9:58 - Meyer’s view of science and philosophy of science, the importance for understanding philosophy when doing science.
16:28 - reviewing five centuries of the history of science, the false idea that science and religion have always been at war.
23:49 - The reason for telling the story of the rise of science, the rejection of the God hypothesis, and its subsequent return based on the most recent scientific discoveries.
28:15 - Explaining the methodology of inference to the best explanation. How this fits within theistic apologetics.
36:30 - Is our goal truth, or a pre-commitment to naturalism? What challenges has Meyer faced when arguing for intelligent design?
39:45 - Are there problems with postulating a mind as an intelligent cause? Are certain explanations “out of bounds” when doing science?
43:00 - Shannon information
43:55 - The origin of the universe, the fine-tuning of the universe, and the information in the cell. Resistance to change from a materialistic worldview.
47:40 - Huge theistic implications and the corresponding push-back to them.
49:15 - Helpful illustrations to explain the fine-tuning of the universe for life.
53:38 - Douglas Adams’ “puddle objection” to the fine-tuning argument; the response, and a counter-analogy. The weak-anthropic principle.
58:50 - How might these arguments fit into an apologetic for Christianity? The role of natural theology and the need for special revelation. The false dichotomy between evidentialism and presuppositional apologetics.

www.returnofthegodhypothesis.com

If you have a question for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

020 - What We Learned from the Interviews

Mon, 03 May 2021 08:54:41 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross discuss the past interviews and take-aways, and lessons learned along the way.

5:10 - Peter S. Williams, Dawkins, and winsome argumentation.
7:38 - Fazale Rana, interacting with ideas and those who disagree.
11:40 - The live podcasts, and personal prophecies, and a discussion on false prophecies and false teachers.
22:18 - David Baggett and moral apologetics, and arguments that point people to Christ.
25:33 - The Belfast Bigot, the “bigot cave,” and pro-life arguments.
28:04 - Signs of a coming revival, fruit baskets, and how topics change you.
31:19 - Craig Hazen, his book on prayer, and the usefulness of personal anecdotes as a communicator.
34:12 - The Wintery Knight interview, Christianity in the public square, and more reflections on how that interview challenged us, the book “Slave” by John MacArthur.
39:35 - Jacob Varghese and SAFT Apologetics, atheistic challenges in India, the urgency of apologetics.
42:54 - Sarah Enterline, the life of Susanna Newcome, arguments leading to Christ.
45:20 - Erik Manning (the Testify YouTube channel), the power of the work of lay apologists.
47:00 - More interviews ahead, please give us your feedback.
47:30 - We’re running out of Ghostbusters quotes, and a proposal to “open up the canon” to another highly quotable movie….

If you have a question for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

019 - YouTube Apologetics with Erik Manning

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 05:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Erik Manning, creator of the Testify YouTube Channel about doing apologetics on the internet, responding to critics, and using one’s talent to make an impact.

0:35 - Introduction to our guest, Erik Manning.
3:54 - How Erik got into apologetics and how his YouTube channel started.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCadiEsTZ0hNxs5OxwGiyELQ
www.isjesusalive.com

8:38 - A personal anecdote about God speaking today.
11:10 - The process and inspiration for creating YouTube content.
16:22 - Most influential Christian thinkers on Erik’s work and study.
20:52 - The importance of interacting on YouTube and other online venues.
26:05 - Erik’s experience interacting with skeptics and detractors online.
27:50 - How to not take things personally.
29:37 - How someone can do apologetics ministry while still taking care of family commitments with five children.
32:02 - The biggest challenges to face when doing online ministry.
34:49 - The tools that Erik uses for making videos.
36:40 - How internet ministry makes an impact, and examples, testimonies.
41:42 - Words of advice for those thinking of making an impact online.

Support Erik on Patreon here:
https://www.patreon.com/isjesusalive

If you have a question for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

018 - Sarah Enterline on the Life of Susanna Newcome

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 05:00:06 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Sarah R. Enterline (www.sarahrenterline.com) about her recent book No Apologies: The Life & Work of Susanna Newcome.

0:30 - Update: A nice fruit basket.

1:47 - Intro to Sarah Enterline.

4:24 - What Sarah has been working on lately with The Library of Historical Apologetics. Cataloging and researching the work of historical apologists.

5:50 - What Sarah didn’t expect to learn about apologists from the past, and what most people don’t know about C.S. Lewis.

7:18 - What interested Sarah in Susanna Newcome? Her character and life, her academics.

10:44 - The odd relationship between Susanna and her husband. Susanna’s reputation as a top-class thinker.

13:42 - Why character matters more than ever.

16:27 - What makes this book different? And why it’s so amazing.

18:51 - The state of women in apologetics today, and how we might see more interest and involvement of women in apologetics.

23:21 - The shift to more women in apologetics today.

24:34 - Are men more interested in the rational side of faith than women, or is that a myth?

30:18 - The amazing range of arguments for God in Susanna Newcome’s work. Unique perspectives she brings to the table that we don’t see today. Appeals to happiness.

36:51 - The importance of defining one’s terms, and how to make a good argument. Lots of footnotes is a good thing.

40:43 - When looking for evidence for God, we should expect to see miracles. What sort of evidence are we looking for?

45:14 - Anticipating potential objections and answering them.

45:59 - Susanna wrote a second version of her work to answer new objections on the scene in her day.

49:02 - Argument from prophecy: should we see them more today? How helpful are they, and in what areas are they most beneficial?

53:21 - Apologetic arguments that bolster the faith of believers, not only geared to non-believers.

54:35 - What can apologists today learn from the life and work of Susanna Newcome? How to logically lay out an argument.

Places to check out:
www.noapologiesbook.com
www.sarahrenterline.com
www.historicalapologetics.org
www.womeninapologetics.com
Special Divine Action Project
https://sda.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/sda/#!/about

If you have a question for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

017 - Apologetics in India with Jacob Varghese

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 05:00:10 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Jacob Varghese from SAFT Apologetics, an apologetics ministry based in India with an international reach. www.saftapologetics.com

2:40 - Introduction to Jacob Varghese and the work of SAFT Apologetics.
7:45 - How Jacob got into apologetics and the beginnings of SAFT.
12:00 - Seeking answers, finding truth. The growth of the podcast.
20:00 - Cultural differences in apologetics in India. Naturalism, supernaturalism, and apologetic questions. Which is harder to deal with: naturalism or supernaturalism? Cultural and religious diversity in India.
36:10 - Atheism on the rise in India.
39:30 - The recent SAFT Online Conference: https://areopagus.saftapologetics.com
50:00 - What’s on the horizon for SAFT?

Support SAFT Apologetics here:
Website: www.saftapologetics.com
Patreon: www.patreon.com/saftapologetics
Podcast webpage: https://saftpodcast.buzzsprout.com
YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/saftapologetics

If you have a question for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com

016 - Christianity in the Public Square with Wintery Knight

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 13:54:41 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Christian blogger Wintery Knight on the topics of Christian blogging, apologetics in the workplace and in the public square, how policy effects Christian freedoms, and more. www.winteryknight.com

1:30 - Discussing moral and ethical issues, having an alias, and observing the changers in culture.

8:00 - The conflict between the Happiness Quest and the Truth Quest.

10:00 - The difficulty getting apologetics into the church. The importance of a commitment to a truth quest.

13:00 - Doing apologetics on the internet.

17:30 - How to interact with skeptics, and what to do when the people you interact with become hostile.

20:00 - In-person interaction and discerning the right way to communicate in the workplace or public square.

25:20 - How can Christians be informed about what’s going on in culture and public policy? How does one become equipped? Resources for being equipped.

37:00 - “The Equality Act” and religious liberty issues.

43:00 - The speed of cultural change in the US, and the importance of religious freedoms.

52:45 - Christianity and politics.

015 - OT Reliability & Signs of a Coming Revival

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 05:00:19 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross answer listener questions: one concerning the historical reliability of the Old Testament and one on the topic of revival.

2:30 - Mailbag questions #1: “What are your thoughts on the following view of scripture?” Is the Old Testament a product of imaginative interpretation? Is the OT fiction? Do we have archeological evidence for the OT?

24:50 - Mailbag questions #2: “Are there signs of a coming revival? What must Christians do to usher in this revival?” A conversation about what revival is, what revival is for, what has happened in revivals historically, and whether or not there are signs of a “coming revival”. Is there anything Christians can do to bring about revival?

Suggested resources:
* Revival by Martyn Lloyd Jones (Youtube | Book )
• Why Revival Tarries by Leonard Ravenhill
• Power Through Prayer by E.M. Bounds
• The Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers & Devotions

014 - Abortion and the Belfast Bigot

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 06:00:09 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview “The Belfast Bigot” (www.facebook.com/thebelfastbigot) on the topic of abortion, and defending a pro-life position in the public square.

1:00 - Intro to the Belfast Bigot, why use that name? The history of the Belfast Bigot blog.

5:30 - The goals of apologetics interaction online.

9:10 - Why does the Belfast Bigot talk so much about abortion? Main influences and resources.

12:00 - The abortion situation in the UK / Ireland. The common views on abortion in the UK / Ireland.

17:00 - How do you make a case for life? What is the best angle to take? “What is the unborn?”

20:00 - The use of scientific arguments for the pro-life position. Three types of pro-abortion views.

24:00 - Examples of some bad pro-life arguments. The use of graphic images (are they helpful or not?)

32:50 - What are the common objections to

39:00 - The violinist argument in favor of abortion.

44:00 - “This pregnancy is the product of rape.”

49:00 - What if the life of the mother is at risk?

51:00 - Why blog anonymously?

56:30 - Pro-life resources and more:
• The Case for Life by Scott Klusendorf
• Why Pro-Life by Randy Alcorn
• Love Unleashes Life by Stephanie Gray
• The Ethics of Abortion by Christopher Kaczor
• Love Thy Body by Nancy Percy

013 - David Baggett on Moral Apologetics and HBU Masters Programs

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 06:00:06 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Christian philosopher David Baggett on the topic of moral apologetics, arguments for God from morality, and the Masters of Arts programs available at Houston Baptist University.

0:30 - Over 100 arguments for the existence of God.
Capturing Christianity: Over 100 Arguments for the Existence of God
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qi7ANgO2ZBU

1:50 - Intro to David Baggett and his books.
God and Cosmos: Moral Truth and Human Meaning
https://www.amazon.com/God-Cosmos-Moral-Truth-Meaning/dp/0199931216
The Moral Argument: A History
https://www.amazon.com/Moral-Argument-History-David-Baggett/dp/0190246375
Good God: The Theistic Foundations of Morality
https://www.amazon.com/Good-God-Theistic-Foundations-Morality/dp/0199751811
The Morals of the Story: Good News About a Good God
https://www.amazon.com/Morals-Story-Good-News-About/dp/0830852077

5:15 - David Baggett’s background, education, and about Michigan.

7:35 - The Houston Baptist University campus experience and the Master's of Arts and apologetics degree.

10:00 - The Center for Moral Apologetics at HBU.

12:50 - Cultural apologetics: what is it? How does HBU educate in cultural apologetics?

15:15 - Cultural apologetics and philosophical apologetics: the importance of having both.

18:50 - Further discussion on distinctions in cultural apologetics.

22:05 - Opportunities at HBU for distance learning programs.

23:20 - What’s it like being married to an academic and also writing a book together?

26:35 - “The Morals of the Story” - the purpose and scope of the book. The fourfold moral argument. Defending theistic ethics.

38:25 - The personal impact of moral arguments for God.

39:25 - The most persuasive moral arguments for God.

42:35 - Guilt, shame, and how they point to a transcendent source of morality.

46:40 - Answering the Euthyphro dilemma. Has the Euthyphro argument lost its potency?

55:10 - Best introductory texts and recommended reading for moral apologetics, morality. Resources at www.moralapologetics.com

58:00 - Biggest misconceptions about moral arguments for God.

1:00:00 - Harry Potter and Philosophy
https://www.amazon.com/Harry-Potter-Philosophy-Aristotle-Hogwarts-ebook/dp/B003S3RL7G
Parenting and an incarnation model of approaching what we find in the world.

1:08:30 - David’s encouragement to those who are considering the moral argument for God.

1:13:00 - Wrapping up with David Baggett, and a reminder to listen to the end for bonus content.

1:16:15 - What's the difference between William Lane Craig's moral argument and David Baggett’s moral argument?

012 - Craig Hazen and Biola Apologetics Programs

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 06:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Craig Hazen of Biola University, talking to him about Masters degrees in Apologetics at Biola University, his book Fearless Prayer, and his insights on defending the faith.

Biola Masters Programs
https://www.biola.edu/christian-apologetics-ma
Certificate in Christian Apologetics
https://www.biola.edu/christian-apologetics-certificate

1:30 - Intro to Craig Hazen
4:00 - Craig's background, upbringing and Christian background, motivation for getting into apologetics, and how he got to Biola.
11:00 - The Masters programs in Christian Apologetics at Biola.

Biola Masters Programs
https://www.biola.edu/christian-apologetics-ma
Certificate in Christian Apologetics
https://www.biola.edu/christian-apologetics-certificate

12:30 - What is the cross-section of the students in the apologetics program? The now fully online apologetics program.

15:45 - Distance/remote learning vs. on-campus study.

17:45 - Are the questions about Christianity changing? How has culture shifted? Bring rooted in foundational topics and being able to handle the basics.

22:15 - The faculty at Biola

25:00 - The role of philosophy when thinking about Christianity. Is there a conflict? How can it help?

29:00 - Religious studies and comparative religions; Craig's background in studying the world's religions.

31:40 - Craig's book Fearless Prayer. The goal in writing it, and the overall focus of the book.

36:00 - Stories of answered prayer.

38:30 - Advice for those who are having a hard time with praying; intellectual obstacles to prayer.

011 - No Evidence for God, All Religions Teach the Same Thing

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 06:00:21 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross record with a "live studio audience" and address the common objection that there is no evidence for God, as well the view of postmodernism.

1:30 - Truthbomb's series on "Common Objections to Christianity."

http://truthbomb.blogspot.com/search/label/Common%20Objections

4:00 - The objection that "there is no evidence for God." What's the difference between evidence and arguments?

10:00 - A list of 13 arguments for the existence of God. The Kalam argument, the Leibnizian cosmological argument, moral arguments, ontological arguments, design arguments, transcendental arguments, etc.

38:40 - Making a case for the resurrection of Jesus.

41:00 - Question about postmodernism from listener. "True for you but not for me."

46:00 - The objection that "all religions teach the same thing."

010 - Conspiracy Theories and Personal Prophecies

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 06:00:17 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross record with a "live studio audience" and answer questions about conspiracy theories (how to speak with those who are into them), and how to think about personal words of prophecy.

2:00 - Discussing a blog post about Christians who believe conspiracy theories. What could be the root problems? Excerpts from J.P. Moreland's "Love God with All Your Mind." How did Christianity go from being intellectually robust to being intellectually shallow?

11:40 - Question about how we can speak to people who are believing conspiracy theories, and how can the church guard itself against misinformation? Excerpts from Adler & Van Doren's "How to Read a Book."

• Uninformed
• Misinformed
• Illogical
• Incomplete

22:00 - The importance of asking the right questions. Keep calm, don't dismiss, encourage critical thinking.

28:00 - How can the church guard itself against misinformation? Critical thinking; addressing issues and doing equipping in the local church.

33:40 - Listener question about personal prophecy in the local church. Wayne Grudem's "Systematic Theology" chapter 53. Defining prophecy and prophets. Old Testament vs. New Testament prophecy. Testing prophetic words, holding fast to what is good.

009 - Apologetic Parenting & Cultural Engagement

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 06:00:07 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross record with a "live studio audience" and discuss apologetics in parenting as well as engaging with ideas in culture.

2:00 - Question #1 from listener, timeline and suggestions for introducing and teaching kids apologetics. Children's books, Study Bibles, catechisms, Harry Potter and more.

William Lane Craig children's books:
https://www.reasonablefaith.org/store/childrens-books/

Big Truths for Little Kids
https://www.10ofthose.com/uk/products/10867/big-truths-for-little-kids

J. Warner Wallace books:
https://coldcasechristianity.com/books-by-j-warner-wallace/

Long Story Short
https://www.thegoodbook.co.uk/long-story-short

The Pleasure of Finding Things Out by Richard Feynman
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Pleasure_of_Finding_Things_Out

“Fairy tales do not tell children the dragons exist. Children already know that dragons exist. Fairy tales tell children the dragons can be killed.” ― G.K. Chesterton

The Way of Wisdom by Tim Keller
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Way-Wisdom-Devotions-Proverbs-Navigating/dp/147364755X

Further books: The Fallacy Detective, Mama Bear Apologetics, Case for Christ for Kids, Case for Faith for Kids, Cold Case Christianity for Kids, Keeping Your Kids on God's Side, Talking to Kids about Jesus, Talking to Your Kids about God.

19:40 - Using questions when talking about God with kids. "Quarantine" parenting, or "inoculation" parenting.

21:45 - Question #2 from listener. How can Christians engage with ideas in culture? The analogy of apologetics as farming & preparing the soil for planting. Using your sphere of influence. The importance that the church address hard questions. Critical thinking and asking good questions.

008 - Thinking About Evolution with Fuz Rana

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 07:00:04 +0000

Today's interview is with biochemist Fazale Rana, the vice president of research and apologetics at Reasons to Believe. He is the author of several groundbreaking books, including Who Was Adam, Creating Life in the Lab, The Cell’s Design, and Humans 2.0. He holds a PhD in chemistry with an emphasis in biochemistry from Ohio University.

We'll be talking to Fuz about RTB's book, "Thinking About Evolution: 25 Questions Christians Want Answered" in which he's a contributing author.

1:25 - Introduction to Fuz Rana, Reasons to Believe (www.reasons.org) and the book Thinking About Evolution.

2:30 - Defining the terms surrounding evolution, as well as the possibility of equivocation on evolution. Micro-evolution, macro-evolution, speciation, chemical evolution, origin of life, etc.

6:45 - Thinking through evolution for yourself. Philosophical pre-commitments. The problem of underdetermination of scientific theories.

10:00 - The structure of the book, overarching goals, and RTB's approach to evolution as it relates to creation.

12:05 - The biases that everyone brings to scientific topics. Acknowledging our biases. The progressive creation model.

15:50 - Fuz's personal journey, uncertainty about God's existence, evolution, design in biological systems, the origin of life.

19:30 - What is theistic evolution / evolutionary creationism? Philosophical challenges and theological implications. "Tacking God onto evolution".

26:50 - Chemical evolution and the origin of life. Philosophical pre-commitments that life evolved. Challenges in origin of life research.

30:00 - Interactions with origin of life researchers. Intelligent agency in origin of life experiments. "The hand of God dilemma."

39:10 - Irreducible complexity in biological systems, and how they may or may not be good arguments for design in biology. Co-option as a possible rejoinder to irreducible complexity.

44:00 - How the concept of biological convergence could be interpreted as common design rather than evolutionary similarities on two different beaches of the evolutionary tree.

48:00 - Does co-option apply to biological convergence? Eye structures in chameleons and sandlances.

51:30 - Does Paley's "watchmaker argument" fail? Biomemetics and bio inspiration. The inverse watchmaker argument.

54:50 - Junk DNA? What is the state of the science? Functions that have been discovered in "junk DNA".

59:30 - Advice to Christians going into science, biology, and technology. The importance of the philosophy of science.

Find more info on Reasons to Believe at www.reasons.org.

007 - Supporting Local Church Apologetics

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 07:00:21 +0000

1:00 - Boba Fett costumes and Masters of the Universe!
www.bobamaker.co.uk

5:30 - Books currently reading, Dallas Willard, spiritual disciplines, and finding quiet. "The relentless elimination of hurry." The celebration of content creation.

11:00 - Having the mindset of a tortoise. Slow diligence. J. P. Moreland's book "Finding Quiet". How to find quiet when you have tinnitus.

17:00 - Topic 1: How can the church enable and support members in their pursuit of degrees in science, philosophy, theology, and apologetics? Are there organisations who provide this support? (Let us know!)

24:00 - Tips for Budding Philosophers: https://www.reasonablefaith.org/writings/popular-writings/apologetics/advice-to-european-christian-apologists/

27:00 - Topic 2: Discussion of a question regarding "How can God be happy with 31% of the population being Christians?" Would more miracles persuade belief? What role does free will play?

48:15 - How can Christ be the only way to God? https://www.reasonablefaith.org/writings/popular-writings/christianity-other-faiths/how-can-christ-be-the-only-way-to-god/

006 - Outgrowing God? with Peter S. Williams

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 07:00:04 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Christian Philosopher Peter S. Williams about his book Outgrowing God?: A Beginner’s Guide to Richard Dawkins and the God Debate.

Find his resources at www.peterswilliams.com

2:50 - Introduction to Peter and his various books.

5:00 - The goal for writing a book dealing with Richard Dawkins’ book, Outgrowing God.

12:20 - The characters in the book, and coming at the God debate from various angles.

16:00 - Why address Dawkins and not “the best that atheism has to offer?”

19:00 - Key things that Peter would want to challenge Dawkins on in his thinking.

22:30 - Addressing inconsistency and lack of philosophical training.

24:00 - Problems with requiring “extraordinary evidence” for “extraordinary claims.” The subjectivity of the word “extraordinary.”

30:05 - Engaging in the God debate with the best of scholarship.

34:00 - Different ways of looking at the Old Testament, and reasons to take it seriously. Accurate incidental details we see in the OT.

40:00 - Addressing the topic of slavery, how we define it, and what we see in the Bible.

44:00 - Human rights and dignity, the Biblical worldview, and the culture of the day. Moral development in culture.

48:30 - How moral values are grounded. Dawkins judging the character of Yahweh. What worldview makes the best sense of our moral experience?

52:00 - Is there any hope of grounding moral values in something other than God? Discussion of moral platonism.

58:00 - Characters in the book struggling with depression; presenting the Christian life with more realism.

63:00 - Where to find more resources for the book.

64:20 - Reflections on the interview.

005 - Experts, Generalists & Atheistic Tweets

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 07:00:06 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross talk about current reading, experts vs. generalists, atheistic tweets and putting Jesus at the center.

2:00 - "Where are you from... originally?"

3:10 - Current book reading, Jesus the Great Philosopher: Rediscovering the Wisdom Needed for the Good Life by Jonathan T. Pennington, Range: How Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World by David Epstein.

8:25 - Being an expert or a generalist in apologetics? The problems with not having a diversity of experiences or influences. "Skill stacking."

14:20 - Thinking about an atheistic tweet by Real Atheology. Christian Apologetics vs Christian Philosophy?

35:00 - Feedback on the Trinity from the kids.

37:30 - Putting Jesus at the center: dealing with fear, anxiety, worry and stress.

42:30 - Prayer for the listeners.

004 - Responding to Memes and Talking About the Trinity

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 19:15:51 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross talk about podcasts, memes, and talking about the Trinity.

0:50 - A few podcasts we listen to: ID The Future, Frank Turek, The Briefing with Albert Mohler, Unbelievable? with Justin Brierley, Reasonable Faith, Defenders, Like Trees Walking with Mike J. Nelson (Mystery Science Theater 3000), Think Biblically, Stand to Reason (Greg Koukl), Real Atheology.

8:10 - Responding to memes, "Jesus never talked about abortion," and the case against abortion.

21:30 - How might we turn conversation stoppers into conversation starters? Dealing with nervousness, pressure, and anxiety responding to arguments.

34:15 - One approach for talking about the Trinity with kids. The strengths and shortcomings of Trinity analogies. The Trinity is a solution, not a problem.

003 - Dawkins Reflections & Listener Questions

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 06:00:02 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross reflect on Richard Dawkins' latest book, and answer a some listener questions.

1:50 - The Flow Bee home hair-cutting system!

5:00 - Dawkins' new book, "Outgrowing God", and reflections on the content.

20:30 - Responding to the line, "extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence."

29:00 - Apologetics as a tool for evangelism

36:00 - J.P. Moreland's "The Kingdom Triangle"

37:30 - Tips for getting more out of reading, and how to listen to ebooks (text-to-speech hacks).

43:00 - Questions from listener: How do I influence others to engage their faith intellectually? Should I resign myself to the current state of the evangelical church? And where are all the spiritual mothers and fathers?

002 - Listener Question & Apologetic Interactions

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 06:00:09 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross answer a listener question and talk about apologetic interactions.

1:00 - Ghostbusters quotes incorporated into your questions are guaranteed to be answered!

2:00 - Answering a question about apologetics degrees and certificates. How important are they?

19:45 - Are people being skeptical or simply cynical, or a contrarian?

34:05 - Is mockery ever an appropriate strategy when doing apologetics?

50:00 - Prayer for the listeners

001 - Reboot: Catching Up with Brian Auten

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 17:00:35 +0000

In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross talk about the reboot of the Apologetics 315 Podcast.

1:00 - introducing Chad Gross from Truthbomb Apologetics, and their friendship.

6:30 - Reflections, history, origins of Apologetics315, and the journey. Where did the interviews podcast go?

18:50 - Bringing logic and argumentation into your marriage? Self-awareness.

22:50 - Why did the podcast stop?

23:30 - Movies quotes, Ghostbusters, and the goal of the podcast.

25:40 - Chad’s biggest influences in apologetics.

29:39 - How Brian got into apologetics, the Rational response squad, and Ray Comfort.

36:40 - What’s daily life look like?

42:30 - Apologetics and parenting. Teaching our kids to think well.

Seth Dillon Interview

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 16:57:16 +0000

Today’s interview is with Seth Dillon, CEO of the Babylon Bee, a Christian news satire site. Seth talks about the history and origins of The Babylon Bee, the purpose and role of satire, dealing with controversy, the Babylon Bee podcast, engaging with today’s culture, the Disrn news website, and more.

Visit the Babylon Bee at www.babylonbee.com
Visit the Disrn website at www.disrn.com

Enjoy.

Christian Hubbs Interview

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 15:35:30 +0000

Today’s interview is with Christian Hubbs, one of the hosts of the Articifially Intelligent podcast. Christian holds an Master of Science from ETH Zurich (that’s Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich) , he has an MA in Christian Apologetics from Biola University, and is an AI researcher for a Fortune 50 Company… all while completing his PhD in machine learning and optimization at Carnegie Mellon University. His podcast can be find at www.artificiallyintelligent.tech, which focuses on AI and economics and a blog on the topic at [ datahubbs.com]( http://datahubbs.com/) . Christian was also the RF Chapter director in Zürich, Switzerland for 3 years.

The purpose of today’s interview is to talk to Christian about artificial intelligence: what is AI anyway, are terminators going to take over the world? The practical uses of AI and current AI research, and how the Christian worldview informs our thinking about AI.

Fuz Rana Interview

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 22:32:17 +0000

Today’s interview is with biochemist Fazale Rana, the vice president of research and apologetics at Reasons to Believe. He is the author of several books, including /Who Was Adam, Creating Life in the Lab/, /The Cell’s Design/and /Dinosaur Blood and the Age of the Earth/. He holds a PhD in chemistry with an emphasis in biochemistry from Ohio University.

The purpose of this interview is to explore the topic of trans humanism: what is it? How do technological advances affect out lives? To what extent can they enhance our lives, our bodies, our minds? What are the ethical implications of human advancement though technology?

Kenneth Samples Interview

Wed, 22 May 2019 18:23:58 +0000

Today's interview is with Kenneth Samples, research scholar at Reasons to Believe. Ken's new book, Classic Christian Thinkers, is a tour de force through Christian history's greatest defenders.

Andy Bannister Interview (2)

Sun, 15 Feb 2015 19:00:47 +0000

Today's interview is with Andy Bannister, Canadian Director and Lead Apologist for RZIM Canada. He talks about his work with RZIM, cultural and moral shifts, the Burning Questions DVD project, Short Answers to Big Questions, the most popular apologetics questions, how to be a good listener/answerer, common pitfalls when answering tough questions, dealing with emotionally charged questions, pointing questioners to Christ, and more. Lots of great insights.
Enjoy.

Michael Patton Interview (2)

Sun, 08 Feb 2015 19:00:25 +0000

Today's interview is with Michael Patton, president of Reclaiming the Mind and Credo House Ministries found at reclaimingthemind.org. This is a ministry of theological development for lay people. He blogs at Parchment and Pen @reclaimingthemind.org/blog and is also responsible for the development of Credo House of Theology found at credohouse.org. He talks about Credo House, Credo Courses, his ministry experience, dealing with depression, how burnout comes in ministry, common warning signs, sharing struggles, advice for a long-term view, and more.

Enjoy.

Frank Turek Interview (3)

Sun, 25 Jan 2015 19:00:47 +0000

Today's interview is with apologist Frank Turek, author of a number of books, including his newest: Stealing from God: Why Atheists Need God to Make Their Case. He talks about the Cross Examined Instructor Academy, the goal of his new book, how atheists can steal from God in making their case for atheism, arguing from reason, arguing from science, defining atheism (not a lack of belief in God), lessons he's learned in speaking with atheists, the subject of hell, and much more. Enjoy.

Fazale Rana Interview (2)

Sun, 18 Jan 2015 19:00:17 +0000

Today's interview is with biochemist Fazale Rana, executive vice president of research and apologetics at Reasons to Believe. He talks about his current work, his background (being raised by a Muslim father), the present growth of Islam, its acceptance in culture, how Christians respond, winsome engagement with the Muslim world, the danger of making sweeping generalizations, keys to understanding Islam better, integrity in apologetic engagement, to-dos and not-to-dos when speaking with Muslims, and more.

FREE for a limited time: Apologetics315 listeners can receive a free MP3 download of Fuz’s testimony Finding God in the Lab by simply:
visiting reasons.org
clicking on the “Apologetics 315” button on the home page.
Fill out the form
Reasons to Believe will then send you the download via email. Offer available to Apologetics 315 listeners only through February 14.

Graham Veale Interview

Sun, 11 Jan 2015 19:00:55 +0000

Today's interview is with Graham Veale, author of New Atheism: A Survival Guide, and he a co-founder and writer at saintsandsceptics.org. He talks about religious education, the resources at the blog, the influence of the atheist movement, atheism amongst students, the arguments in his book, the "flying spaghetti monster," the non-conflict between Christianity and science, the rhetorical strategy of the new atheists, the biggest strengths and weaknesses of the new atheism, the centrality of Christ in apologetics & evangelism, and more.

Enjoy.

Jefrey Breshears Interview

Sun, 04 Jan 2015 19:00:56 +0000

Today’s interview is with Dr. Jefrey Breshears, Christian historian, apologist, the president of "The Areopagus” and author of An Introduction to Bibliology. He talks about his background and interest in history and apologetics, the problem of anti-intellectualism in the church (and what can be done about it), the systematic study of the bible (bibliology), an overview of An Introduction to Bibliology, bad arguments for the Bible, good arguments for the Bible, defending the inspiration of scripture, how we got the books that are in the Bible (the canon), the transmission of the Biblical texts, the significance of textual variants, answering skeptics regarding apparent contradictions, the most misunderstood issues about the Bible, and more.

Tom Gilson Interview (2)

Sun, 04 May 2014 18:00:07 +0000

Today’s interview is with Tom Gilson, the National Field Director for Ratio Christi, and blogger at ThinkingChristian.net. He talks about Ratio Christi and its growth, Ratio Christi College Prep and Ratio Christ Chapters. He also discusses the print publication of the book True Reason: Confronting the Irrationality of the New Atheism, responding to the new atheism, the book A Manual for Creating Atheists (Peter Boghossian: Atheist Tactician), the approach of Peter Boghossian, and an an argument in favor of the historicity of the Gospel accounts (found at Touchstone magazine).

Enjoy.

Jonathan Morrow Interview (3)

Sun, 20 Apr 2014 18:00:31 +0000

Today's interview is with Jonathan Morrow. Jonathan is the founder of Think Christianly and is the author of Welcome to College: A Christ-follower's Guide for the Journey, Think Christianly: Looking at the Intersection of Faith and Culture, and Is God Just a Human Invention? And Seventeen Other Questions Raised by the New Atheists (with Sean McDowell). Jonathan is currently the Director of Creative Strategies at Impact 360 Institute. He talks about the need for training for students and young people and discusses the opportunities available through the Impact 360 Institute.

Enjoy.

Tony Brown Interview

Sat, 14 Dec 2013 07:00:53 +0000

Today's interview is with Tony Brown, Pastor of Sunbridge Road Mission. As a former Jehovah’s Witness, Tony conducts seminars/workshops in churches and is an outreach advisor and blog contributor for UK Partnerships for Christ, a ministry reaching out to Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormons. He talks about his journey in and out of the JWs, the beliefs of JWs, the Watchtower Society, advice for Christians speaking with cult members, and more.

Enjoy.

Abdu Murray Interview

Sun, 29 Sep 2013 18:00:08 +0000

Today's interview is with Abdu Murray, co-founder and the President of Embrace the Truth International, which is an apologetics-based ministry dedicated to offering the Truth of the Gospel to Muslims, Jews, cult members, and skeptics. He talks about his background and his conversion from Islam to Christianity, his view of God as a Christian, the issue of identity in Islam, the three most important elements in his conversion, the costs of changing beliefs, overcoming fear of interaction, his upcoming book Grand Central Question, the Josh McDowell Institute Conference 2013, and more.

Enjoy.

Amy Orr-Ewing Interview

Sun, 22 Sep 2013 18:00:46 +0000

Today's interview is with Amy Orr-Ewing, Director of Programmes for the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics (the OCCA) and UK Director for RZIM Zacharias Trust. She talks about her background and interest in apologetics, contemporary cultural challenges, common objections to the Bible, wrong ways to defend the Bible, helpful approaches to defending the Bible, manuscripts and translations, inerrancy, the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics, advice to apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Everett Piper Interview

Sun, 15 Sep 2013 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Dr. Everett Piper, president of Oklahoma Wesleyan University. He talks about his background and work, what OWU offers academically, their apologetics programs, the Josh McDowell Institute for Christian Apologetics, the goal and vision of the Institute, the JMI Conference in November, the various apologetics certificates and programs, advice for those seeking degrees, resources that are available to the church, the importance of defending the faith in every area of culture, and more.

Enjoy.

Donald Johnson Interview

Sun, 01 Sep 2013 18:00:16 +0000

Today's interview is with Donald Johnson of "The Don Johnson Show". He's also author of the soon-to-be-released book: How to Talk to a Skeptic: An Easy to Follow Guide for Natural Conversations and Effective Apologetics. He talks about his background and ministry, evangelism and apologetics, Biola's MA program in apologetics, the new book, avoiding mistakes in interaction, defending Christianity as a worldview, a skeptic's understanding of Christianity, learning how to talk to people, personal reasons why people might reject God, avoiding burnout, and more good insights and advice.

Enjoy.

Robert B. Stewart Interview

Sun, 25 Aug 2013 18:00:03 +0000

Today's interview is with Robert Stewart, Professor of Philosophy and Theology, and Greer-Heard Professor of Faith and Culture, at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He talks about his background and work, apologetics programs offered at NOBTS, the Greer-Heard Point-Counterpoint Forum, the importance of intellectual engagement, how Christians can be better at personal engagement, why apologetics has gotten more and more popular, advice for those pursuing academic studies, the Defend the Faith conference, and more.

Enjoy.

John Stewart Interview

Sun, 11 Aug 2013 18:00:31 +0000

Today's interview is with John Stewart, International Director for Ratio Christi. He talks about his background and how he started exploring Christianity, the Simon Greenleaf School of Law, his work with Walter Martin on The Bible AnswerMan program, the changes in the apologetics landscape in the past decades, lessons learned from decades of doing apologetics, Ratio Christi and its international vision, how you can get involved internationally, his resources, and more.

Enjoy.

Phil Fernandes Interview (3)

Sun, 04 Aug 2013 18:00:19 +0000

Today's interview is with Phil Fernandes, president of the Institute of Biblical Defense, and the pastor of Trinity Bible Fellowship in Silverdale, Washington. He talks about apologetic preaching, how to incorporate apologetics training into the local church, evangelism, common objections to apologetics, encouragement and advice to pastors, audio/video resources, and more.

Enjoy.

Jonathan McLatchie Interview

Sun, 23 Jun 2013 18:00:21 +0000

Today's interview is with apologist and biologist Jonathan McLatchie. He talks about his background and influences, why he believes God exists and Christianity is true. Then the interview continues as an "intelligent design 101" discussion: what is intelligent design, main reasons to infer intelligent causation, the explanatory filter for design, the Darwinian view, reasons for controversy, responding to challenges to ID theory, design detection in biological systems, varying views of origins, "god of the gaps" objections, how to falsify intelligent design, ID's predictions, suggestions for those studying ID, lessons in apologetics, and more.

Enjoy.

Richard Howe Interview

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 18:00:19 +0000

Today's interview is with Dr. Richard Howe, Professor of Philosophy and Apologetics and the Director of the Ph.D. Program at Southern Evangelical Seminary. He talks about his background and work, the apologetics program at SES, how theology needs philosophy, integrating apologetics practically, do's and don'ts for apologists, spiritual advice, and upcoming conferences, including tomorrow's Tactical Faith hangout, and more.

Enjoy.

Carson Weitnauer Interview

Sun, 26 May 2013 18:00:28 +0000

Today's interview is with Carson Weitnauer, co-editor of True Reason, author and speaker at ReasonsforGod.org, and the current president of the Christian Apologetics Alliance. He talks about his background and ministry, campus apologetics ministry, the Christian Apologetics Alliance, the need for mentors, friends and accountability, equipping churches to defend the faith, practical applications, advice for apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Michael Ward Interview

Sun, 19 May 2013 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Michael Ward, Professor of Apologetics at Houston Baptist University and director of HBU's new C. S. Lewis Centre in Oxford. Michael is a leading expert on the works of C.S. Lewis. He talks about his background, the influence of C. S. Lewis, Lewis's Oxford home, the C. S. Lewis Centre in Oxford, why Lewis had an impact apologetically, the rational and the imaginative, Lewis in Poet's Corner, HBU's apologetics program, areas where Christians can make an impact, advice for Christian apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Larry Taunton Interview

Sun, 21 Apr 2013 18:00:51 +0000

Today's interview is with Larry Taunton, founder and Executive Director of the Fixed Point Foundation. He talks about his background and the vision of Fixed Point, the purpose and impact of public debates, lessons learned from debating with skeptics and atheists, the bridging of the sacred and the secular, how Christians can get started in making a difference in their communities, advice for the next generation of Christian apologists, debates and resources, and more.

Enjoy.

Randal Rauser Interview

Sun, 14 Apr 2013 18:00:56 +0000

Today's interview is with systematic and analytic theologian Randal Rauser. Randal is the author of a number of books with theological and apologetical themes, including his latest: The Swedish Atheist, The Scuba Diver, and Other Apologetic Rabbit Trails. He talks about his background and work, the "tentative apologist," theology, apologetics, and philosophy, his approach to apologetic interaction, authoring a book with John Loftus, his latest book, skills apologists should master, common pitfalls, developing relationships, and how to be a better theologian.

Enjoy.

Max Andrews Interview

Sun, 07 Apr 2013 18:00:06 +0000

Today's interview is with Max Andrews. Max is a graduate student from Liberty University, whose research is in philosophy of science and religion. He talks about his background and education, his interest and research in multiverse theory, the fine-tuning argument, Liberty University, advice for Christians studying apologetics, his Sententias blog, the development of the Christian mind, and applying apologetics.

Enjoy.

Peter S. Williams Interview (3)

Sun, 17 Mar 2013 19:00:23 +0000

Today's interview is with Christian philosopher, apologist and author Peter S. Williams. He talks about his most recent book C.S. Lewis vs. the New Atheists, Lewis's views as an atheist, the arguments that the new atheists have neglected, the impact of Lewis for the last 50 years, the "mere Christianity" approach (is it enough?), the argument from desire, the argument from reason, arguments by the new atheists, the moral argument, elements in Lewis's journey to Christianity, where to start when reading Lewis, and more.

Enjoy.

Ron Rhodes Interview

Sun, 10 Mar 2013 19:00:08 +0000

Today's interview is with Ron Rhodes, president of Reasoning from the Scriptures Ministries. He talks about his background and ministry, how he became a Christian, how to define the word "cult," the difference between cults an denominations, the growth of the cults and the new atheism, principles and ground rules for Mormons & Jehovah's Witnesses, how to speak with friends who are part of a cult, mistakes to avoid, dealing with emotional and psychological barriers, advice for apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Steve Miller Interview

Sun, 03 Mar 2013 19:00:25 +0000

Today's interview is with J. Steve Miller, author of Near-Death Experiences as Evidence for the Existence of God and Heaven: A Brief Introduction in Plain Language. He talks about his background and research in near-death experiences (NDEs), defining near-death experiences, common experiences in NDEs, the evidential value of NDEs, various examples of NDEs, how worldviews come into play when evaluating evidence, common naturalistic explanations and their shortcomings, evidence for Christianity from NDEs, the existential impact of NDEs, and more.

Enjoy.

Blake Anderson Interview

Sun, 24 Feb 2013 19:00:55 +0000

Today's interview is with Blake Anderson of Ratio Christi. Ratio Christi (a Student Apologetics Alliance) seeks to encourage and strengthen the faith of Christian students at secular and liberal institutions across the country, while also sharing Christ's message and love to those that have yet to receive it, through the use of intellectual investigation and apologetics. Blake is the head of Chapter Growth & Support for the many Ratio Christi campus chapters. He talks about the need for apologetics on campus and in the university setting, the vision and work of Ratio Christi, how apologists can get involved part-time and full-time, and more.

Enjoy.

Vocab Malone Interviews Brian Auten

Sun, 17 Feb 2013 19:00:49 +0000

Today's interview is taken from the Backpack Radio show. Vocab Malone interviews Brian Auten about "Online Apologetics Resources." Vocab talks with Brian about the history of Apologetics 315, how to find apologetics resources, apologetics interaction online, evangelism, and more.

Enjoy.

Lindsay Brooks Interviews Brian Auten

Sun, 10 Feb 2013 19:00:02 +0000

Today's interview is taken from the Apologetics.com Radio Show. Lindsay Brooks interviews Brian Auten on "How to Begin as an Apologist." Lindsay Brooks talks with Brian about how he got into apologetics, about his many interviews, about how a new apologist might begin, and about the future of apologetics.

Enjoy.

Johnny V. Miller Interview

Sun, 03 Feb 2013 19:00:43 +0000

Today's interview is with Johnny V. Miller, professor emeritus at Columbia International University and co-author with John M. Soden of the book In the Beginning... We Misunderstood: Interpreting Genesis 1 in Its Original Context. He talks about the goal and motive behind the book, the most important question to ask when approaching any passage of scripture, the concordist view and possible troublesome approaches to scripture, the original readers of Genesis 1 and their cultural context, the cosmogony of the Egyptians, similarities and differences between creation stories, the goal of the Biblical creation account, the historicity of Genesis, objections to the thesis, his own journey on issues of the age of the earth debate, apologetics applications & implications, and more.

Enjoy.

John Bloom Interview

Sun, 27 Jan 2013 19:00:40 +0000

Today's interview is with Dr. John Bloom, professor of physics at Biola University. He's also the Academic Director of the MA Program in Science and Religion at Biola, and the Chair of the Chemistry, Physics, and Engineering Dept. He talks about how he got into science, the faith/science "conflict", countering the faith/science conflict, the history of science and Christianity, naturalism and methodological naturalism, Hume & Darwin, "non-overlapping magisteria", the integration of faith and science, the MA program in Science & Religion at Biola, advice for those defending the faith, Saddleback's Conference on Creation, and more.

Enjoy.

Matthew Burford Interview (2)

Sun, 20 Jan 2013 19:00:49 +0000

Today's interview is with Matthew Burford of Tactical Faith, a grassroots apologetics organization promoting events and resources (for instance, the recent SALT Apologetics Conference). He talks about the growth of the organization, how to put on apologetics events, apologetics at a grassroots level, roadblocks to doing events, and lots more.

Enjoy.

Frank Turek Interview (2)

Sun, 13 Jan 2013 19:00:45 +0000

Today's interview is with apologist Frank Turek. This is our second interview with Frank. In this interview, he talks about lessons from Christopher Hitchens, the moral argument for the existence of God, two different versions of the moral argument, the meaning of objective morality, illustrations to help the argument, common objections to the moral argument, volitional reason for people rejecting God, the Cross Examined Instructor Academy, and more. Check out Frank's ministry, Cross Examined.

Enjoy.

J. Warner Wallace Interview

Sun, 06 Jan 2013 19:00:27 +0000

Today's interview is with cold-case detective J. Warner Wallace, author of Cold-Case Christianity: A Homicide Detective Investigates the Claims of the Gospels. He talks about his present work, his journey from atheism, how the tools of the detective apply to investigating the Gospels, how we reason abductively, the value and use of circumstantial evidence, eyewitness evaluation, the difference between what's possible and what's reasonable, how we know the disciples didn't fabricate their story, biased witnesses, the tactics of defense attorneys and skeptics, making an impact when you're not a "full-time apologist," encouragement for Christian case-makers, and more.

Enjoy.

Douglas Jacoby Interview

Sun, 02 Dec 2012 19:00:55 +0000

Today's interview is with apologist Douglas Jacoby. He talks about his background and ministry, the importance of apologetics and training, being widely read, common objections to the Bible, building a case for Bible reliability, archaeology evidence and the Bible, touring the Holy Land, where the Bible gets its authority, knowing through experience, objections based in the disagreement amongst Christians, the benefit of formal debates, his debate with Robert M. Price, the role of rhetoric on both side of the engagement, advice for better communication, being a good reader, advice for apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Chad Meister Interview

Sun, 25 Nov 2012 19:00:38 +0000

Today's interview is with Chad Meister, professor of philosophy at Bethel College. He talks about his background and how he got into philosophy and apologetics, a defense of philosophy as a tool in apologetics, what philosophy is and isn't, his book Building Belief: Constructing Faith from the Ground Up, the starting points for apologetic/evangelistic engagement, ontology/epistemology distinctions when reasoning about God's existence, the role of the Holy Spirit, advice for communicators, and more.

Enjoy.

Louis Markos Interview

Sun, 18 Nov 2012 19:00:03 +0000

Today's interview is with Lou Markos, Professor in English and Scholar in Residence at Houston Baptist University. And he's a C.S. Lewis expert. He talks about literary apologetics (or cultural apologetics), why and how Christians should write and be involved in culture, his recent book On the Shoulders of Hobbits: The Road to Virtue with Tolkien and Lewis, the different approaches of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, The Silmarillion, how we need cultural apologists today, HBU's apologetics program, advice for apologists, and the biggest apologetic lesson he has learned from C.S. Lewis.

Enjoy.

Special Request from Brian Auten

Sun, 11 Nov 2012 19:00:56 +0000

Hello, this is Brian Auten of Apologetics 315.

This week I'd like to ask for your support for the ongoing work at Apologetics 315.

In particular, this is related to the ongoing project to transcribe the interviews that you are listening to in this podcast. Personally, I find these interviews some of the most valuable resources on Apologetics 315. However, not everyone is a podcast listener; I believe many more people can gain access to the content of these interviews if they were written.

So here's the vision: to transcribe all of them. This will take some time, but it is doable with the help of volunteer transcribers as well as with the help of financial support to fund some of the transcription. Do you feel like you can help with transcription? If it seem that it's the sort of thing that's right up your alley, then please contract me at interviews@apologetics315.com. If you can't even type, but still would love to see this happen, then why not donate 10, 20, or 50 dollars toward the project? Just click on the support tab on the Ap315 homepage.

So that's a bit about the transcription project.

But I'd like to ask for your help with Apologetics 315 in another way... and that's by considering supporting us through year-end giving. Apologetics 315 is a registered non-profit organization and donations are tax-deductible.

If you are considering year-end giving, please keep us in mind with your gift toward the work we're doing to make the best apologetics resources available and accessible to as many people as possible.

Finally, there's one more easy way to help Apologetics315 a whole lot by doing very little. If you do your shopping online through amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, or amazon.ca, by using Apologetics315's affiliate link a portion of your purchases actually is credited to our organization. So maybe you want to buy a book for yourself... well, just use the link found at apologetics 315 (look along the right hand side of the page with the amazon logo) and click that link... it takes you to amazon where you buy your book as normal. And that's it... that helps us. And if you do your Christmas shopping there... whether it's buying baby clothes or a BBQ, that all counts in a very real way toward our goals here. So please use that link—and bookmark it if you like in your browser for whenever you shop with Amazon.

Thanks again for being a listener and a visitor to apologetics 315. And as always, feel free to recommend future interview guests, topics, or even second interviews of past guests.

This is Brian Auten of apologetics 315 and thanks for listening.

MaryJo Sharp Interview (2)

Sun, 04 Nov 2012 19:00:21 +0000

Today's interview is with apologist Mary Jo Sharp, founder of Confident Christianity and assistant professor at Houston Baptist University. She talks about apologetics ministry, exploring Masters programs in apologetics, her recent LifeWay DVD Bible study: Why Do You Believe That? A Faith Conversation, tips for conversations and communication, overcoming roadblocks to dialogue, women in apologetics ministry, and more. Also check out her book: Defending the Faith: Apologetics in Women's Ministry.

Enjoy.

Paul Buller Interview

Sun, 28 Oct 2012 19:00:46 +0000

Today's interview is with author of Arguing with Friends: Keeping Your Friends and Your Convictions. He also runs the blog whyjesus.ca and arguingwithfriends.com. He talks about influences in apologetics, conversational apologetics, the goal in personal interactions with others, understanding arguments (this Monty Python skit), tactics vs. strategies, learning from mistakes in doing apologetics, and advice for effective communication.

Enjoy.

David Marshall Interview

Sun, 21 Oct 2012 18:00:49 +0000

Today's interview is with David Marshall, founder and director of the Kuai Mu Institute for Christianity and World Cultures and editor of the forthcoming Faith Seeking Understanding: Essays in Memory of Paul Brand and Ralph Winter. He talks about his work and background, apologetics in missions, his latest book, the influence of Paul Brand and Ralph Winter, how the Gospels demonstrate the historicity of the Gospel story, advice for those doing apologetics, and more.

Enjoy.

Douglas Wilson Interview

Sun, 14 Oct 2012 18:00:25 +0000

Today's interview is with pastor and reformed theologian Douglas Wilson. He talks about his background and influences, his pastoral ministry, apologetics and its role in the local church, how to incorporate apologetics into preaching, encouraging apologetic engagement within the church, his debates with Christopher Hitchens (and the DVD Collision), the presuppositional approach to apologetics, biggest lessons learned from speaking and debating, pitfalls to avoid, advice for apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

K. Scott Oliphint Interview

Sun, 07 Oct 2012 18:00:34 +0000

Today's interview is with K. Scott Oliphint, Professor of Apologetics and Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary. He is author of a number of books, including God With Us: Divine Condescention and the Attributes of God, and Reasons for Faith: Philosophy in the Service of Theology. He talks about his background and influences, Christian Apologetics Past & Present: A Primary Source Reader, presuppositional apologetics, the work of Cornelius Van Til, "covenantal apologetics," the practical application of presuppositionalism, common ground, common misconceptions of presuppositionalism, recommended reading, advice, and much more.

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Craig Parton Interview

Sun, 30 Sep 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Craig Parton, attorney and author of The Defense Never Rests: A Lawyer's Quest for the Gospel as well as Religion on Trial. He is also the United States Director of the International Academy of Apologetics, Evangelism and Human Rights in Strasbourg, France. He talks about his faith journey, a lawyer's perspective on the evidence for Christianity, how to investigate religious truth claims, how we know things are true, evidential methodology, "beyond a reasonable doubt", how the burden of proof works, how to disprove Christianity, the apologetics academy in Strasboug, lessons learned as an apologist, advice for those doing apologetics, and more.

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Francis Beckwith Interview

Sun, 23 Sep 2012 18:00:17 +0000

Today's interview is with Frank Beckwith, associate professor of Church-State Studies at Baylor University and associate director of the J. M. Dawson Institute of Church-State Studies. He talks about his background, the importance of ethics and church-state issues, the reason for controversy about Christianity and politics, the meaning of "separation between church and state," what the Bible says about politics, how Christians should be engaged politically, thinking about hot-button issues, how to properly argue for issues, factors for evaluating candidates, the importance of voting, his book Politics for Christians: Statecraft as Soulcraft (review here), recommended reading, and advice for apologists.

Enjoy.

Kerby Anderson Interview

Sun, 16 Sep 2012 18:00:29 +0000

Today's interview is with apologist Kerby Anderson, president of Probe Ministries and host of the Point of View Radio Talk Show. He talks about his background and influences, the history of Probe Ministries, the concept of worldview, how we go about testing worldviews, the various facets of worldviews, integrating a Christian worldview, the National Student Mind Games Conference, practical advice for parents equipping their children, advice for Christian apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Michael J. Kruger Interview

Sun, 09 Sep 2012 18:00:37 +0000

Today's interview is with Michael J. Kruger, Professor of New Testament at Reformed theological seminary in Charlotte, NC. He talks about his background in New Testament studies, his new book on the canon, Canon Revisited: Establishing the Origins and Authority of the New Testament Books, the nature of the Bible, the meaning and formation of the canon, criteria of canonicity and attributes of canonicity, "other gospels," the apocrypha, how we can know what books belong in the Bible, advice for Christian apologists, and more.

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Ranald Macauley Interview

Sun, 02 Sep 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Ranald Macauley, founder of L'Abri, UK and founder of Christian Heritage, UK. He talks about his background and work in ministry, working with Francis Schaeffer, L'Abri, UK, Christian Heritage's vision, the spiritual condition of Europe, the importance of proactive apologetics, apologetics apprenticeships, summer schools in apologetics and theology, audio resources, how pastors can help their congregations be more intellectually engaged, facing future challenges, advice for those studying apologetics, and the importance of reading Schaeffer.

Enjoy.

Bobby Conway Interview

Sun, 26 Aug 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Bobby Conway, lead pastor of Life Fellowship in Charlotte, NC. He is also the founder of the One Minute Apologist, a creative YouTube apologetics ministry. He is also author of the book, Hell, Rob Bell, and What Happens When People Die. He talks about his background, the need for apologetics in the church, incorporating apologetics into preaching, doing multimedia apologetics, advice for those studying apologetics, the On Guard DVD program, and more. Lots of great insights.

Enjoy.

Doug Powell Interview

Sun, 12 Aug 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with author, designer, musician, and apologist Doug Powell. He talks about his creative design and music background, how he got into apologetics, the integration of creativity and apologetics, his interactive book and app Resurrection iWitness, the development of the New Testament canon, the need for clarity in apologetics presentations, speaking tips, the Biola Apologetics program, advice for apologists, and more.

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Ted Turnau Interview

Sun, 05 Aug 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Ted Turnau. Ted is a college lecturer who teaches Cultural Studies and Religion in Prague, Czech Republic. His interest is in issues of popular culture, imagination, and how they relate to the Christian faith. He is author of Popologetics: Popular Culture in Christian Perspective. He talks about how he got into apologetics and cultural studies, defining popular culture, the themes in Popologetics, apologetics and popular culture in conversations, thinking deeper than just the "issues," the limits of engaging with culture, wrong ways of interacting with culture, tools for understanding the world view of pieces of popular culture, a theology of popular culture, practical ways of using popular culture as a means of engagement, advice for apologists today, recommended resources for engaging with culture, and much more.

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Dave Sterrett Interview

Sun, 29 Jul 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with author and apologist Dave Sterrett. He talks about his background and work in apologetics, the relationship between apologetics and evangelism, the centrality of evangelism, why we should trust Jesus, defining faith and trust, the Coffeehouse Chronicles, why young people fall walk away from their faith in college, I Am Second, the impact of personal transformation, his advice for other Christian apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Alex McFarland Interview (part 2)

Sun, 22 Jul 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today is part TWO of a two-part interview with Alex McFarland, Director of Worldview Studies at North Greenville University. He is an author, apologist, and speaker on religion and culture, talk show host of the "Explore the Word" Radio Program, the Sound Rezn radio program, and more. He talks about his most recent book, 10 Answers for Skeptics, the various kinds of skepticism, discerning the difference between searchers and skeptics, the most common objections people have, generalizing and specializing in apologetics, advice for apologists, and more. For conference info, see www.truthforanewgeneration.com.

Enjoy.

Alex McFarland Interview (part 1)

Sun, 15 Jul 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today is part ONE of a two-part interview with Alex McFarland, Director of Worldview Studies at North Greenville University. He is an author, apologist, and speaker on religion and culture, talk show host of the "Explore the Word" Radio Program, the Sound Rezn radio program, and more. He talks about his background and how he got into apologetics, the importance of apologetics in youth ministry, the Truth for a New Generation Apologetics Conference, defining apologetics and its role in the local church, opening doors in the local church, how to get better educated formally in apologetics, schools with apologetics programs, and more. For conference info, see www.truthforanewgeneration.com.

Enjoy.

Richard Swinburne Interview

Sun, 08 Jul 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Christian philosopher or religion, Richard Swinburne. He is an Emeritus Professor of Philosophy at the University of Oxford. Over the last 50 years Swinburne has been a proponent of philosophical arguments for the existence of God. He talks about his background, the changes in Christian philosophy in the past decades, the goal for the Christian philosopher, defending and advocating Christianity, his approach to arguing for the existence of God, objections to Christianity, answering the problem of evil & suffering, his advice to Christian defenders, and more.

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David Glass Interview

Sun, 01 Jul 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with David Glass, author of Atheism's New Clothes: Exploring and Exposing the Claims of the New Atheists. David has a Ph. D. in theoretical physics and an MA in Philosophy from Queen's University, Belfast and teaches at the University of Ulster. He talks about the relationship between faith and science, the new atheism and its popular influence, the case for Christian belief, Dawkins and Dennett's evolutionary account of religious belief, Plantinga's evolutionary argument against naturalism and its alternative versions, Dawkins' argument that there is almost certainly no God, advice for Christians interacting with atheists, the Saints & Sceptics website, and more.

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Thomas E. Woodward Interview

Sun, 24 Jun 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Thomas E. Woodward, professor at Trinity College of Florida, and founder and director of the C.S. Lewis Society. Woodward is an historian of the intelligent design movement. He talks about his work and background, the intelligent design movement (its definition, origin, and goals), anti-ID objections and rhetoric, the direction of the ID movement today, the Dover trial, the question of "is ID science?", the approaches of Michael Behe, William Dembski, and Stephen Meyer, The Mysterious Epigenome: What Lies Beyond DNA, the future of ID research, resources for people learning and teaching ID, and more.

Enjoy.

Victor Reppert Interview

Sun, 17 Jun 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Christian philosopher Victor Reppert, author of C. S. Lewis's Dangerous Idea: In Defense of the Argument from Reason. He talks about his background and the development of the argument from reason, C.S. Lewis's formulation of the argument, the difficulties for naturalism to account for thought, objections to the argument, and more.

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Bobby Gilpin Interview on Mormonism

Sun, 10 Jun 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Bobby Gilpin. He talks about his ministry to educate the Church on how to respond to Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses. This interview focuses on Mormonism; a sort of mini-crash course. Aren't Mormons just Christians?, differences between Mormonism and Christianity, the use of the term "cult," a brief history of Mormonism, the authority of the Book of Mormon and other books, the importance of dialogue with Mormons, strategies for engagement and primary topics, common mistakes when speaking with Mormons, the biggest challenges, the significance of Utah, the size and growth of Mormonism, evangelism trips, and more.

Enjoy.

John Mark Reynolds Interview

Sun, 03 Jun 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Christian philosopher and apologist John Mark Reynolds, incoming provost at Houston Baptist University. He talks about his background and work, the biggest apologetic challenges today, cultural apologetics, the developing apologetics program and philosophy programs at Houston Baptist University, advice for future apologists, asking the right questions in conversation, do's and don'ts, tips for interacting with people online, advice for those wanting to read the great books, reading, movies and cultural awareness, and more.

Enjoy.

Phil Fernandes Interview: Apologetic Methodology

Sun, 27 May 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today’s interview is with pastor and apologist Phil Fernandes. He talks about apologetics methodologies and his latest book: 7 Great Apologists. He unpacks the various approaches to apologetics, including classical apologetics, historical apologetics, two types of presuppositionalism, verificationalism, comparative religious apologetics, and psychological apologetics. Lots of great insights into the ways of doing apologetics. More from Phil Fernandes at PhilFernandes.org.

Enjoy.

Tim McGrew Interviews Brian Auten about Apologetics 315

Sun, 20 May 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Brian Auten, founder of Apologetics 315. He is interviewed by Dr. Timothy McGrew on the past, present, and future of Apologetics 315. The goal of the interview is to get to know a bit more about Brian Auten, how Apologetics 315 came to be, the vision of the ministry, future goals and projects, and how others can help support its growth.

Enjoy.

Kenneth Samples Interview (2)

Sun, 13 May 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with philosopher and theologian Ken Samples, senior research professor at Reasons to Believe. He talks about the Straight Thinking Podcast, the Unbelievable? Conference 2012 in London, an abductive approach to apologetics, the explanatory power of Christianity over atheism, morality and the human condition, the problem of evil and suffering, the different kinds of evil in the world, God's purposes in suffering, gratuitous evils, how to address the problem of evil with tact, and some of the key ideas in his newest book 7 Truths that Changed the World: Discovering Christianity's Most Dangerous Ideas.

Enjoy.

Navy SEAL: Chad Williams Interview

Wed, 09 May 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Chad Williams, evangelist, former Navy SEAL, and author of the book SEAL of God. He talks about his training in the SEALS, his mentor Scott Helvenston, his radical conversion to Christianity, persecution, communicating the Gospel, street preaching, evangelism, the use of testimonies, encouragement in doing evangelism and using apologetics, and more. Chad's website here: StreetApologetics.com

Enjoy.

R. Scott Smith Interview

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with R. Scott Smith, Associate Professor of Ethics and Christian Apologetics at Biola University. He talks about his latest book, Naturalism and Our Knowledge of Reality, defining naturalism, motivations for naturalism, methodological naturalism, ways of viewing reality, Darwinian views, the evolutionary argument against naturalism (similarities/differences), naturalism's ontological resources, some objections to his view, testing religious truth-claims, and more.

Enjoy.

Robin Collins Interview

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Robin Collins, professor of philosophy at Messiah College. His training is in physics and in philosophy and he is a leading advocate for using the fine-tuning of the universe as a design argument for theism. He talks about his background and training, the fine-tuning argument, the different types of fine-tuning with examples and illustrations (laws, constants and initial conditions), two different ways of presenting the fine-tuning argument, answering common objections to the argument, the uniqueness of life, variations of the multiverse hypothesis, the failure of multiverse theory to explain away fine-tuning, objections to Victor Stenger, upcoming books, simplifying the fine-tuning argument for practical use, common mistakes when presenting the argument, the most common objection (who designed God?), and more.

Enjoy.

Vocab Malone Interview

Sun, 08 Apr 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with apologist and hip hop artist Vocab Malone. He talks about his debates, relationships with atheists, being confrontational without being adversarial, the Backpack Radio podcast, "street-level" apologetics, his background in hip hop, purpose and message in the music, Wayne Grudem's systematic theology raps (you'll hear one), being in the world but not of it, overcoming challenges to engagement, cultural involvement and discernment, being committed and submitted to the local church (great stuff), putting knowledge into practice, and more. Check out BackPackRadio.com or BackPackTruth.com for Vocab's stuff.

Enjoy.

Online Apologetics Conference Interview

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Anthony Horvath, the director of Athanatos Christian Ministries. He defines and talks about using story, the masters of using story, the goal of the Online Apologetics Conference, the keynote speaker and main topics, art and the apologist, how to attend the online conference, the list of speakers, how this conference helps to promote apologetics in the local church, past conference resources, and how to get involved. The free and open public conference is on April 19th. Registrants can attend the 20th and 21st sessions. Check out the conference website at OnlineApologeticsConference.com.

Enjoy.

Dan Story Interview

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with author and apologist Dan Story. He talks about his experience in doing apologetics, the ten commandments of apologetics, avoiding distractions in engagements, finding out what the real issue is, engaging the closed minded, the concepts and goal of his book Should Christians Be Environmentalists, defining environmentalism, the environmentalist movement, correcting misconceptions about Christians and the environment, approaching the climate change debate, outlining a Bible-based theology of nature, practical application to apologetics and evangelism, and more. His website his at www.danstory.net.

Enjoy.

David Instone-Brewer Interview

Sun, 18 Mar 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with David Instone-Brewer, Senior Research Fellow in Rabbinics and the New Testament at Tyndale House, Cambridge. He talks about the goal and content within The Jesus Scandals, the criteria of embarrassment, the punishment of crucifixion and the shame of the cross, the uniqueness of the resurrection, the betrayal by Judas, Jesus' "scandalous" teachings, the teaching about hell, the virgin birth, the cumulative power of the Gospel accounts, advice for apologists, and more. Pick up David's book The Jesus Scandals here. Book website and excerpts here at BibleScandals.com

Enjoy.

Michael Patton Interview

Sun, 11 Mar 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with C. Michael Patton, president of Reclaiming the Mind/Credo House Ministries (www.reclaimingthemind.org), a ministry of theological development for lay-people. He blogs at Parchment and Pen (www.reclaimingthemind.org/blog) and is also responsible for the development of the Credo House of Theology (www.credohouse.org), a theological coffee house and bookstore. He talks about getting theology to the layperson, the relationship and interface between theology and apologetics, theological equipping for apologists, the importance of wresting with theological issues, pitfalls from neglecting theological training, advice for those considering seminary, the importance of community, important lessons and advice for doing theology and apologetics, and more.

Enjoy.

Tom Price & Vince Vitale (OCCA) Interview

Sun, 04 Mar 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Tom Price and Vince Vitale, academic tutors at the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics. They talk about their work with RZIM and OCCA, finding Christ in University, cultural differences and Christianity, the value of formal study in apologetics, the pastoral and community dimension of apologetics training, the opportunities and programs at the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics (certificate program and masters program), and advice for apologists.

Enjoy.

Ravi Zacharias Interview

Sun, 26 Feb 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Ravi Zacharias, perhaps one of the greatest Christian apologists of our time. He is author of over twenty books, and his most recent is Why Jesus: Rediscovering His Truth in an Age of Mass Marketed Spirituality. In this interview he talks his new book, the "new spirituality," secularism and spiritual hunger, how the media can make a lie seem like the truth, how we arrived at the new spirituality, Deepak Chopra and Oprah, avoiding the dangers of the new spirituality, reasons for hostility against Christianity, how people "reshape" Jesus, the most frequent misconceptions about Jesus, advice for Christian apologists, the hardest lesson to learn when defending the faith, planning devotions, pitfalls to guard against, the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics, and more.

Enjoy.

Ken Boa Interview

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Dr. Ken Boa, president of Reflections Ministries. He talks about his background and education, gifting or calling in the area of apologetics, possible imbalances in doing apologetic/theological studies, spiritual disciplines to be especially mindful of, the role of prayer and intercession in evangelism, advice for education for apologists, disciplines and skills for reading and retaining content, when to speed read and when not to speed read, the Great Books Series, how to make wise reading choices, guarding the reading of Scripture, advice for the budding apologist, dealing with discouragement and burnout, an integrative approach to doing apologetics, and more.

Enjoy.

Holly Ordway Interview on Literary Apologetics

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Holly Ordway, professor of composition and literature at MiraCosta College in North County San Diego and author of Not God’s Type: A Rational Academic Finds a Radical Faith. She is also director of ACM's Literary Apologetics Certificate program. She talks about literary apologetics, what it is and is not, excellence and creativity, what apologetics looks like through literature and the arts, developing and sharpening the skills of the literary apologist, the Literary Apologetics Certificate, and more. Visit Holly's blog: Hieropraxis.

Enjoy.

Craig Keener Interview

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Dr. Craig Keener, professor of the New Testament at Asbury Theological Seminary. He is especially known for his work as a New Testament scholar on Bible background. He is also author of Miracles: The Credibility of the New Testament Accounts. He talks about his background and current work, how his newest book came about, defining miracles, unpacking Hume's objections against miracles, assessing miracle claims outside of Christianity, appealing to naturalistic explanations for miracles, the theological context of miracles, reasons to trust New Testament miracle claims, contemporary miracle claims from around the world, miracles in the west, verifiable and non-verifiable miracle claims, asking for "miracles on demand," miracles and naturalism, the place for miracles and an apologetic for Christianity, and more.

To purchase Dr. Keener's courses on Logos: http://www.logos.com/craig-keener

Enjoy.

Peter J. Williams Interview

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Peter J. Williams, Warden of Tyndale House, Cambridge. He talks about his work and background in biblical languages, the reliability of the Gospels, internal vs. external evidences, the genre of the Gospels, the authorship of the Gospels, the Gospels as eyewitness testimony (link to talk here), historical methods past vs. present, oral culture and literacy in the first century, the dating of the Gospels (years vs. generations), approaching apparent contradictions, correcting substandard approaches to defending the Gospels, looking at morally difficult subjects in the Old Testament, tips for answering moral objections, advice on doing apologetics, and more. For resources from Tyndale House, see:
www.bibleandchurch.com
www.tyndal.cam.ac.uk/resources2

Enjoy.

Daniel Rodger and Calum Miller (Apologetics UK) Interview

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Daniel Rodger and Calum Miller, founders of the Apologetics UK Blog and UK Apologetics Facebook group. They talk about the state of apologetics in the United Kingdom, unique cultural challenges, the goal of the Apologetics UK blog, blogging as an apologetic/evangelistic tool, the growing UK Apologetics Facebook group, and the future of apologetics in the UK.

Enjoy.

Casey Luskin Interview

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Casey Luskin, Research Coordinator for the Discovery Center's Center for Science and Culture. In this interview Casey talks about his background and interest in Intelligent Design, defining terms (ID, evolution, creationism, Darwinism), common objections to ID as a scientific endeavor, some milestones in the history of the ID movement, the Dover trial, responding to critics who say "ID is dead," "not science," and more. This is a good overall introduction to Intelligent Design.

Enjoy.

Daniel B. Wallace Interview

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Dr. Daniel B. Wallace, professor of New Testament Studies at Dallas Theological Seminary and an authority on Koine Greek grammar and New Testament textual criticism. He is founder of the Center for the Study of New Testament Manuscripts. He talks about his background and current work, photographing NT manuscripts, the current number of manuscripts, some of the most important manuscripts (and some great stories), his testimony journey into textual criticism, the trustworthiness of the Bible, the meaning of textual variants (how they are really counted, and what they affect), how he approaches apparent Bible contradictions, the doctrine of inerrancy, his interactions and debates with Bart Ehrman, comparing the popular vs. the scholarly Ehrman, "we don't have the originals!", determining the authorship of the Gospels, advice for apologists (great stuff), and do's and don'ts for defending the Bible. Visit CSNTM.org to assist his work.

Enjoy.

Peter S. Williams Interview (2)

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Peter S. Williams (blog here). He talks about his recent projects, including his debate alongside William Lane Craig at Cambridge, and his recent book: Understanding Jesus: Five Ways to Spiritual Enlightenment. He discusses a cumulative case approach, the Gospels as testimony and the role of testimony, the historical sources for Jesus, Jesus' self-centered teaching, the trilemma argument, Jesus' miracles, non-Christian miracle claims, the argument from prophecy and common objections, religious experiences, Jesus' spirituality, and more.

Enjoy.

Alvin Plantinga Interview

Sun, 04 Dec 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Alvin Plantinga, emeritus John A. O'Brien Professor of Philosophy at the University of Notre Dame. He talks about his background and how he got into philosophy, theistic arguments (for two dozen or so, see here) and some he'd like to see worked on (the argument from evil & the argument from abstract objects), the use of the ontological argument, how he would speak to other about the faith, his view on the use of arguments for convincing others, properly basic belief, his air conditioner, the shift toward theism in philosophy, reading recommendations for up-and-coming philosophers, study and reading habits, character traits for the Christian philosopher, topics he'd like to see Christian philosophers tackle, advice on apologetics, his latest book, Where the Conflict Really Lies: Science, Religion, and Naturalism, and more.

Enjoy.

Win Corduan Interview

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Christian philosopher Win Corduan. Dr. Corduan has served as a professor or adjunct professor of philosophy and religion at numerous colleges, universities, and seminaries. He has also served as president of both The International Society of Christian Apologetics and The Evangelical Philosophical Society. He talks about his background and work, influences in apologetics, philosophy and apologetics, philosophical theology, philosophy of religions, comparative religions, his study in Buddhism, the neglect of Buddhism, the need for scholars in all areas, advice for apologists, and more. His books include Neighboring Faiths: A Christian Introduction to World Religions, No Doubt About It: The Case for Christianity, Pocket Guide to World Religions (IVP Pocket Reference), Handmaid to Theology: An Essay in Philosophical Prolegomena, Reasonable Faith: Basic Christian Apologetics, and a number of others.

Enjoy.

Jonathan Morrow Interview

Sun, 20 Nov 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with apologist, author and equipping pastor Jonathan Morrow. He is author of Welcome to College and co-author of Is God a Human Invention? His latest book is Think Christianly: Looking at the intersection of Faith and Culture. He talks about faith and culture, what it means to think Christianly, practical ways to equip the local church, crucial areas of cultural engagement, the themes of his latest book, and more.

Enjoy.

David Horner Interview

Sun, 13 Nov 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with David Horner, professor of philosophy and biblical studies at Biola University. He also serves as research scholar for Centers for Christian Study International, an effort to develop intellectual Christian communities within secular university contexts. He talks about the challenges facing those in college/university, the themes in his book Mind Your Faith: A Student's Guide to Thinking and Living Well, the Christian roots of our educational system, developing better thinking skills, the art of asking good questions, dealing with doubts, the development of character, advice for those who want to be better apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Angus Menuge Interview

Sun, 06 Nov 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Dr. Angus Menuge, Professor of Philosophy at Concordia University, and author of Agents Under Fire: Materialism and the Rationality of Science. He talks about his background and work, the philosophy of mind, what reason (or reasoning) is, what materialism is as a worldview, things excluded from a materialistic worldview, methodological naturalism and materialism, accounting for free will, materialistic accounts of reason, the epistemological argument from reason, the ontological argument from reason, finding the best explanation for reason, problems with methodological naturalism, implications of materialism, practical application of the argument from reason, advice for apologists, the International Academy of Apologetics, and more.

Enjoy.

Nabeel Qureshi Interview

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Nabeel Qureshi, former Muslim and now Christian defender. He is director of Creed 2:6 ministries found at www.creed26.com. He talks about Creed2:6, his journey from Islam to Christianity, his interactions with the Muslim community and Muslim apologists, his response to critics of his conversion, the occurrence of visions and dreams from God to Muslims, the greatest challenges to sharing the Gospel with Muslims, the social consequences for leaving Islam, cultural vs. religious opposition, common errors to avoid, key factors to focus on, recommended resources on Islam, his personal message to those in Islam, and more.

Enjoy.

Craig A. Evans Interview

Sun, 16 Oct 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Biblical scholar Professor Craig Evans. He talks about his background and how he got into this area of scholarship (Jesus, the Gospels and Biblical manuscripts), what impresses him most about the Bible, handling manuscripts, the quest for the historical Jesus (and its overall timeline), the scholarly opinion on the "Jesus never existed" claim, the consensus of scholarship (and why scholarship is important), the contemporary distortion of Jesus, the demonstrable flaws in the thinking of particular scholars, evaluating presuppositions, a case for the reliability of the Gospels, the contrasting view of the "other" gospels, how to investigate the miracle claims within the Gospels, responding to the "failed apocalyptic prophet" objection, the faults in Bart Ehrman's reasoning, advice for those taking their Biblical studies seriously, the do's and don'ts of arguing for Bible reliability, and more.

Enjoy.

John Warwick Montgomery Interview

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with John Warwick Montgomery, Emeritus Professor of Law and Humanities, University of Bedfordshire, England, Distinguished Research Professor of Apologetics and Christian Thought, Patrick Henry College, Virginia., and Director of the International Academy of Apologetics, Evangelism & Human Rights in Strasbourg, France.

He talks about how he became a Christian and became a defender of the faith, the thinkers and authors that have been most influential for him, his approach to apologetics (evidentialism) and why he takes it, the traditional proofs for God's existence (are they needed?), taking a legal approach to the case for Christianity, the meaning of burden of proof and its proper use, the concept of "beyond reasonable doubt," how to defend the resurrection of Christ historically, making a concise case, the two most common objections to the resurrection, answering the textual claims of Bart Ehrman, spiritual and intellectual disciplines for the apologist, pitfalls to avoid, advice for apologists, the International Academy of Apologetics, recommended books, and more.

Enjoy.

Jeremiah J. Johnston Interview

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Jeremiah J. Johnston, founder of Christian Thinkers Society at New Day Church in Kansas City. He is also He talks about his background and how he got into apologetics, how apologetics should be seen before it is heard, a memorable way to visualize the number of New Testament manuscripts, the Christian Thinkers Society (a church-based apologetics program within the local church featuring scholar interviews), advice for those considering starting apologetics ministries within their church, challenges that may need to be overcome when doing this sort of ministry, strategies in adapting scholarly content for lay-audiences, the future vision for CTS, and more.

Enjoy.

Mark Mittelberg Interview

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Mark Mittelberg, author, speaker, and evangelism strategist. He talks about his background and ministry work, the relationship between apologetics and evangelism, integrating apologetics into the local church, his book The Reason Why Faith Makes Sense, the goal and content of the book (it's a great apologetic evangelistic tool), the idea of spiritual seekers, advice for apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Andrew Fellows Interview

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Andrew Fellows, the Director of L’Abri Fellowship in the United Kingdom. L’Abri is a community dedicated to both demonstrating and explaining the truthfulness of Christianity. He talks about his work at L'Abri, the heritage of Francis Schaeffer, the contribution and unique impact of Schaeffer on apologetics, dealing with the "big questions" that people are exploring, the question behind questions, the greatest obstacles people have, the demeanor of the apologist, the importance of hands-on training and mentoring, the church's interaction and relationship with culture (cultural apologetics), Jesus the subversive apologist, following Jesus' example, speaking to the heart, the hiddenness of God, advice (and challenge) for apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Anthony Horvath Interview

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Anthony Horvath, the director of Athanatos Christian Ministries. This October, the Online Apologetics Academy fall semester will commence. Anthony talks about the Academy, the upcoming semester, the speakers and courses, the Gary Habermas lectures, how the courses work and the workload, the optional certificate course available, and how to sign up.

Enjoy.

Douglas Groothuis - Read Along Interview

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Dr. Doug Groothuis, professor of philosophy at Denver Seminary, and author of the newly-released apologetics textbook: Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith. He talks about the scope and purpose of this book, the overall structure, the uniqueness of this book as an apologetics textbook with a cumulative case, the spiritual discipline of study and the life of the mind, the benefits of study and intentional reading, and strategies for working through large books/material. This interview is the introduction to the Read Along with Apologetics315 project, which begins Friday, September 9th.

Enjoy.

Brian Auten Interview

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Brian Auten, interviewed by the blogger WinteryKnight about topics and ideas in apologetics. WinteryKnight's blog focuses on worldview, marriage and chastity, politics, and apologetics.

Questions for WK:
• Why not use your real name?
• What's the focus on WinteryKnight.com?
• What's your goal in interviewing Brian?

Questions for Brian:
• How did you come to be in Northern Ireland?
• How did you get interested in apologetics?
• What would you do with unlimited funding to propagate apologetics resources?
• What arguments are the most persuasive for you?
• What arguments should we use with others?
• Do we need a million "one dollar" apologists, or one "million-dollar" apologist?
• How important do you think it is for apologists to focus on scientific evidences?
• How can the lay person get up to speed on these evidences?
• What's the best way to make the case for the resurrection?
• Use a sledgehammer approach, or a velvet glove approach?
• What about psychological reasons for rejecting the arguments ?
• How does apologetics benefit Christians?
• What about dealing with fear when speaking with people?
• What are the unique resources on the blog?

Thanks to WK for doing the interview!
Enjoy.

Jeff Zweerink Interview

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with astrophysicist Jeff Zweerink. Jeff is a research scholar with Reasons to Believe, and serves part-time on the physics and astronomy research faculty at UCLA. He is author of Who's Afraid of the Multiverse?, the main topic of our interview today. He talks about his background and how he got into astrophysics, scientific evidences pointing to God, the role of natural theology, the strongest (and weakest) arguments from science, the multiverse, the various types of multiverses, why scientists postulate the multiverse, various objections to the multiverse, should Christians, how to be well-informed in scientific evidences, advice for apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Rick Walston Interview

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Rick Walston, president and founder of Columbia Evangelical Seminary, which offers a distance learning program with self-paced Mentorship Study. This interview is one of a series of dialogues regarding educational opportunities in apologetics studies. The purpose of this interview is to explore what CES has to offer for those studying theology and apologetics.
Rick talks about the life of the mind for the Christian, the value of formal study in apologetics, and Columbia Evangelical Seminary.
• What does the college offer?
• What is mentorship study?
• How are the courses self-paced?
• How is coursework customized for each student?
• How does a student select their mentor?
• Who are some of the faculty?
• Is CES accredited? Why not?
• What to watch out for with accreditation
• Who needs an accredited school?
• Who is this school not for?
• Who is this school a good match for?
• Does CES measure up to 'brick and mortar' schools?
• What are the degree programs CES offers?
• What are the tuition costs? (with comparisons)
• And more...

Enjoy.

Greg Ganssle Interview

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Christian philosopher Greg Ganssle. He talks about his work with Rivendell Institute, how he became a Christian and got interested in philosophy, his key areas of focus (philosophy of religion), the influence of his study on his faith, his view of philosophy as it relates to the faith, evaluating truth claims from various systems of thought, atheism and whether or not it is making truth claims about God's existence, his intro to philosophy book Thinking About God, how to raise the bar of Christian thought, the role of a basic understanding of philosophy, learning about logic, various ways to think about apologetics, the impact of the new atheism and the arguments they have brought to the table, his advice to Christian apologists, the importance of knowing the Gospel, how to be a better communicator, and more.

Enjoy.

Matthew Burford Interview

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Matthew Burford, President and Founder of Tactical Faith, an organization seeking to advance apologetic and theological learning within the evangelical community through financial assistance and consulting. He talks about his background and how apologetics has influenced his faith, ministries that have been a strong influence, Tactical Faith and its vision, testimonies from the work, the need for this type of organization, strategies for equipping the local church, goals for scholarships, how people can work with Tactical Faith, and more.

Enjoy.

Sean McDowell Interview on GodQuest

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 18:00:00 +0000

This interview is with Sean McDowell (also check out his first interview and second interview). In this audio Sean talks about his current projects and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary's PhD program, advice for those looking at Masters programs, the size of the need for apologetics in the local church, his small-group resource called GodQuest, the goal of the project, the content of the program (the six 'signposts' and the contributing interviews), how the resource can be used (for believers and nonbelievers), and more. He calls this resource a kind of apologetics-lite that can introduce your church to apologetics.

Find the GodQuest resources here.

Clifford Williams Interview

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Clifford Williams, teacher of philosophy at Trinity College in Deerfield, IL. He is an author of Existential Reasons for Belief in God: A Defense of Desires & Emotions for Faith. He talks about his background and how he got into philosophy, the role of philosophy in theology and apologetics, the meaning of "existential" and the existential argument for belief in God, needs and desires and their role in the existential argument, various objections to the argument, the role of the argument in a cumulative case for God, practical application for apologetics, further resources, and more.

Tony Watkins Interview

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Tony Watkins, speaker, writer and editor with Damaris and Managing Editor of Culturewatch.org. He talks about his background and work, CultureWatch and looking at the message behind the media, the definition of culture and media, the importance of critically examining culture and media, the influence of film on us personally and in culture, what movies tell us about ourselves and the world, identifying redeeming themes and issues that echo Christian truths, being culturally aware, the definition and importance of worldviews, discerning worldviews and the messages in film, and more.

Tony's webpage is: www.tonywatkins.co.uk.

Check out books by Tony Watkins:
• Focus: The Art and Soul of Cinema
• Dark Matter: A Thinking Fan’s Guide to Philip Pullman

Enjoy.

David Wood Interview

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with David Wood, a former atheist who converted to Christianity after examining the evidence for the resurrection of Jesus. As well as being a Teaching Fellow in Philosophy, David directs Acts 17 Apologetics Ministries, defending the Christian Faith against atheistic and Islamic objections. He talks about the Dearborn Arab Festival, the growth of Islam, the crucifixion of Jesus (Christian view compared to Islam), the usage of the word "Allah," Muslim arguments for the Qu'ran, the question of Jihad, assessing arguments in favor of Islam, inaccuracies in the Qu'ran, recommended resources on Islam, and more.

Enjoy.

David T. Lamb Interview

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with David T. Lamb, associate professor of OT at Biblical Theological Seminary. He is author of a newly released book "God Behaving Badly: Is the God of the Old Testament God Angry, Sexist, and Racist?"

He talks about his background in Old Testament studies, dealing with difficult passages in the OT, the angry God and the loving God, principles for reading OT passages for better understanding, responding to the claims that the Bible is sexist, racist, and violent, law versus grace in the Old Testament and the New, the importance of working through and discussing tough questions, using the OT to point people to Christ, and more.

Enjoy.

David Robertson Interview

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Pastor David Robertson of St Peter’s Free Church in Dundee, Scotland and Chairman of the Solas Centre for Public Christianity. He talks about his interaction with Richard Dawkins' God Delusion book, his open letters to Dawkins (and the Dawkins Letters book), his thoughts on persuasive evangelism, the goals of evangelistic conversation, the positive effect from the new atheism, how being a pastor overlaps with evangelism and apologetics, the problem with American apologetics, the importance of practical application, connecting with an audience, the top issues that always seem to come up, the state of the new atheism today, the influence of postmodernism, stopping calling yourself an apologist, our tone with others, the starting point for conversations, and more.

Enjoy.

Apologies: the audio quality was substandard this week because of a technical glitch.

Marcia Montenegro Interview

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Marcia Montenegro, founder of Christian Answers for the New Age (CANA). She talks about the difference between the New Age and the occult, how people tend to get into these areas, her journey into the occult and work as a professional astrologer, the nature of spiritual experiences and what's going on, spirit guides, astrology, her conversion to Christianity, and her advice to those interacting with those caught up in the New Age or occult.

Marcia is also the author of the book SpellBound: The Paranormal Seduction of Today's Kids. Find her website and resources online at
www.christiananswersforthenewage.org

Enjoy.

Stephen Bedard Interview

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Stephen Bedard, pastor of Woodford Baptist Church and First Baptist Church Meaford, Ontario. He talks about his background, influences, his book Unmasking the Pagan Christ, responding to the notion that "Jesus never existed," his upcoming book responding to the Jehovah's Witness publication What Does the Bible Really Say?, the apologetics of JWs, the Hope's Reason Apologetics Journal and podcast, advice to pastors on creating an apologetic culture within the church, articulating the Gospel, apologetics and raising children, and more.

Norman Geisler Interview

Mon, 30 May 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with apologist Norman Geisler, Distinguished Professor of Apologetics at Veritas Evangelical Seminary and author of over 70 books. He answers a variety of questions and topics: how he got into apologetics, his greatest influences on his own thinking, the change on the apologetics landscape in the past decades, his suggested required reading for all apologists, the kinds of arguments he has encountered and how they have affected him, advice for studying arguments, the growth of apologetics in the church, the top three topics to focus on, skills apologists should develop, pitfalls to avoid, areas that should be strengthened, the necessity of theology, what he feels the strongest argument is for God's existence, learning from those who disagree, one's prayer life and integrity, favorite illustrations, advice for studying in the field, and more.

Enjoy.

Mike Felker Interview

Mon, 23 May 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Mike Felker. Mike blogs on apologetics at TheApologeticFront, with an emphasis on interacting with Jehovah's Witnesses. He talks about his background, the overall belief system of JWs, The Watchtower Society, their various teachings regarding salvation, the afterlife, Jesus, the trinity, etc. He also discusses strategies for interaction including what to focus on and what to avoid.

Enjoy.

Paul Moser Interview

Mon, 16 May 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Christian philosopher Paul Moser, Professor and Chair of Philosophy at Loyola University Chicago. He talks about his background, epistemology and evidence, his work on New Testament epistemology, the evidence for God, the role (or not) of natural theology, problems with the "two-step" approach, divine hiddenness, purposively available evidence for God, the role of human volition, authoritative evidence vs. spectator evidence, willingness and evidence, advice for Christian apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Tim McGrew Interview

Mon, 09 May 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Dr. Tim McGrew, Professor of Philosophy at Western Michigan University. He is a philosopher and apologist who has written extensively in areas pertinent to epistemology. He talks about his background and work, examples of undesigned coincidences in the New Testament and Old, the arguments made by Bart Ehrman in his new book Forged and its fatal flaw, textual and literary criticism, spotting actual forgeries, good historical approaches to determining reliability, assessing the New Testament miracles compared to pagan miracles, apologetics works of the past, advice to apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Glenn Peoples Interview

Mon, 02 May 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Dr. Glenn Peoples. Glenn is a New Zealand based Christian philosopher, podcaster, and blogger. He runs the Beretta blog and hosts the Say Hello to My Little Friend podcast. In this interview, Glenn explores moral terminology, objective morality, the difference between ontology and epistemology, the moral argument, the Craig/Harris debate, advice for apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Peter Kreeft Interview

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Peter Kreeft, professor of philosophy at Boston College and at the King's College, in New York City. He talks about his background and influences, his view of philosophy and theology, why we should learn logic (and his logic textbook), etiquette in evaluating arguments, Socratic method & dialogue, caring for the soul, dealing with difficult and loaded questions, preparation for apologetics dialogue (it's not just study), cultivating integrity and character, advice for being a life-long learner, and using literature in apologetics.

Enjoy.

Lee Strobel Interview

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with apologist and author Lee Strobel. He talks about how God has used his books, his journey from atheism to Christianity, the role of evidence and the influence of the heart, being a popularizer, his upcoming book The Ambition, areas where Christians can reach culture, lessons from journalism, advice for apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Jay Smith Interview

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Jay Smith, a Biblical Scholar specializing in Islam. He talks about his background in Islamic studies, the difference between apologetics and polemics, his debates with Muslims, the prophet Muhammad's life and the spread of Islam, the five pillars of Islam, key worldview differences to keep in mind, common mistakes Christian make when interacting with Muslims, advice for those in Islamic studies, and more.

Enjoy.

Robert M. Bowman Interview

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Robert M. Bowman, Jr. - the Director of Research at the Institute for Religious Research. He talks about his background, his work with IRR, the reasons for examining apologetic methodology, four basic categories or approaches to apologetics (classical, evidential, reformed, fideistic), apologetic questions and meta-apologetic questions, the sorts of methodological questions one should consider, understanding presuppositionalism, finding an integrated approach to defending the faith, historical examples of apologists with a well-rounded approach to apologetics, advice to apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Alastair Noble Interview

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Dr. Alastair Noble, director of the Centre for Intelligent Design in the UK. He talks about his background, how he got interested in ID, a bit about the UK organization, the reception of ID theory in the UK, responses to common objections to ID, objective criteria for design detection, why ID is not creationism, three areas where the evidence of design is indisputable, the influence of worldviews, and more.

Enjoy.

Richard Morgan Interview

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Richard Morgan, a former atheist who found salvation in Jesus Christ. His testimony is fascinating, as part of his conversion story came about through his interactions on the Richard Dawkins website discussion boards. He has appeared on the Unbelievable? Radio program (here / MP3). He talks about his background, how he arrived at atheism, how he viewed God, his encounters on the RD forums, and his conversion to Christianity. He also offers some words of insight for Christians and atheists.

Enjoy.

Rick Schenker Interview

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Rick Schenker, president of Ratio Christi, a Student Apologetics Alliance that strengthens the faith of Christian students at secular institutions across the country. He talks about their initiative to start 500 apologetics chapters in the next five years. If you are an apologist, please listen to this interview and see how you can get involved.

Enjoy.

John Dickson Interview

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with John Dickson, Director of the Centre for Public Christianity in Australia, Senior Research Fellow in Department of Ancient History at Macquarie University, and Senior Minister at St Andrew's Roseville. He talks about his background and studies in acient history, his research into the historical Jesus, The Christ Files: How Historians Know What They Know about Jesus, the data that historians use to learn about Jesus, the implausibility to the "Jesus never existed" view, his work with the Centre for Public Christianity, how Christians should get engaged in media and public Christianity, his advice to apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Craig Blomberg Interview

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with New Testament scholar Dr. Craig Blomberg, distinguished professor of New Testament at Denver Seminary in Colorado. He talks about how he got into NT studies, the importance of the Gospels and their dating, how we determine the authorship of the Gospels, how we got four Gospels and not more, the selection of the Gospel canon, the use of non-canonical sources, dealing with miracles account found in historical documents, responding to the claim of contradictions in the Gospels, interpreting historical documents, differences in the Gospel of John, the work and impact of Bart Ehrman, the "all-or-nothing" approach to reliability of scripture, dealing with prophetic passages by Jesus, and advice to Christian apologists.

Enjoy.

Hugh Ross Interview

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with astrophysicist Hugh Ross, founder and president of Reasons to Believe. He talks about his educational background and how he became a Christian, his approach to defending the faith, two books of God's revelation, the relationship between faith and science, RTB's creation model and how it is tested, the use of cosmological arguments, the integration of philosophy, theology, and science, the age of the earth controversy, critiquing young-earth views, advice for apologists, advice for those in the sciences, and more.

Enjoy.

Fazale Rana Interview

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with biochemist Fazale Rana, executive vice president of research and apologetics at Reasons to Believe, a science-faith think tank based in Southern California. He talks about his journey to faith, the role of natural theology, trying to create life in the lab, the thesis of his new book, how we define life, two different approaches to synthetic biology, the goals for synthetic biology, possible moral issues behind artificial life (are we playing God?), the harmonization between new scientific discoveries and scripture, RTB's origin of life model, the plausibility of "pre-biotic soup," the future of synthetic biology, the apologetic value of science, having confidence in the scriptures, and more.

Enjoy.

Scott Klusendorf Interview

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is witth Scott Klusendorf, president of Life Training Institute. LTI is the first place to look for excellent resources to get better equipped to defend the pro-life position. Scott talks about defining abortion and its terms, the issue of the debate, the legal history of abortion, defending the pro-life view using science and philosophy, the four pillars of the pro-life argument, answering a litany of objections to the pro-life position, the right and wrong use of emotional appeals, taking on the right tone in the debate, how to get better equipped, and more.

Enjoy.

Clay Jones: The Crusades p3 Interview

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is the third and final in a series of three short podcasts dealing the atrocities committed in the crusades, Luther's insights on the crusades, the idea of a Christian nation, and the complex lessons of the crusades.

Alister McGrath Interview

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Alister McGrath, Professor of Theology, Ministry and Education, and Head of the Centre for Theology, Religion and Culture at King's College, London. He talks about his journey out of atheism, his interactions with the New Atheists, the future of atheism, the tone of debate, his new book The Passionate Intellect (Mere Theology in UK), the role of a theology in apologetics, the role of natural theology, collaborative apologetics, advice for Christian apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Clay Jones: The Crusades p2 Interview

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is the second of a series of three short podcasts dealing with the general perception of the Crusades, what the Crusades were, motivations behind them, Augustine's concept of "just war," the atrocities of the Crusades, and their overall outcome.

Jay Richards Interview

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Jay Richards, program director of the Discovery Institute's Center for Science and Culture. (articles by Jay here) He talks about the use of intelligent design arguments in Christian apologetics, understanding the limits of arguments, removing obstacles to the Gospel, "God must have done it" caricatures, the Privileged Planet thesis, the factors needed for a life-sustaining planet, the overlap between the conditions for life and the conditions for discovery, the materialistic worldview and the Copernican principle, pre-Copernican cosmology, earth-like exoplanets, design and constrained optimization, the importance of the moon for life and for science, the benefit of philosophical tools for apologetics, advice for apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Clay Jones: The Crusades p1 Interview

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Apologetics 315 is happy to welcome Clay Jones for a series of three interviews. Clay is assistant professor at the Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics program at Biola University - and he teaches courses in Theodicy & the Issue of Evil, apologetics research and writing, and defending the resurrection. He has been interviewed in the past on Apologetics 315 on the problem of evil.

Today's interview is the first of a series of three short podcasts dealing with some of the attacks against Christianity because of events such as the Crusades, witch hunts, and other historical events. This introductory episode begins to unpack how we as Christians should approach and think through the issues.

Enjoy.

Paul Copan - Is God a Moral Monster? Interview

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Christian apologist and philosopher Paul Copan. This is my second interview with Paul - the first covered a number of different topics for apologists -- but today's interview focuses on his recent book entitled: Is God a Moral Monster? Making sense of the Old Testament God. He explores the questions of the "mean" Old Testament God, is God proud and jealous, Abraham being commanded to sacrifice Isaac, challenging Old Testament laws, slavery, and the judgement of the Canaanites.

Enjoy.

Mark Eckel Interview

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Dr. Mark Eckel, Dean of Undergraduate Studies and Professor of Old Testament at Crossroads Bible College in Indianapolis, IN. He is a notable voice in Christian teaching, having written Christian worldview curriculum for schools. He talks about our teacher/student relationship, learning in community, the influence of Francis Schaeffer in his thinking and teaching, what we can learn from Schaeffer today, the balance between generalizing and specializing, the intertwining of apologetics and evangelism, doing cultural apologetics, the mentoring/student relationship, lifelong learning and passion, the discipline of learning and focus, advice for apologists, and more. A rich interview with lots of good nuggets.

Enjoy.

Lindsay Brooks Interview

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Lindsay Brooks, staff apologist of Apologetics.com. He talks about his work with Apologetics.com, the area of aesthetics (or philosophy of beauty), the nature of beauty itself, aesthetics and arguments from design, the argument from desire, the idea of objective beauty, the difference between beauty and taste, the arts in worship, literary apologetics and music, and advice to fellow Christian apologists.

Enjoy.

Paul L. Maier Interview

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Paul L. Maier, the Russell H. Seibert Professor of Ancient History at Western Michigan University and a much-published author of both scholarly and popular works. He talks about his background as an historian, the existence of Jesus, his debate with Dan Barker, the pagan myth accusation, ancient sources for the life of Jesus, the historicity of the first Christmas, and more.

Enjoy.

Holly Ordway Interview

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Holly Ordway, professor of English and literature and author of Not God's Type: A Rational Academic Finds a Radical Faith. She talks about her background as an atheist, her encounters with Christians in the past, the influence of literature and poetry, personal influences from others, looking at arguments for the existence of God, counter-arguments against God, psychological explanations, her encounter with Christ, her advice to skeptics and her advice to Christian apologists.

Enjoy.

James Sire Interview

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with James Sire, author, lecturer, and Christian apologist. He talks about his background, the impact of The Universe Next Door, defining the concept of worldview, the benefit of understanding worldview concepts, the intellectual life as a Christian calling, the renewal and discipline of the mind, the cultivation of wisdom, thoughts on lifelong learning, the biggest errors of Christian communicators, tips for better communication, apologetics and calling, advice to Christian apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Joe Carter Interview

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Joe Carter, online editor of First Things magazine and author of How to Argue Like Jesus: Learning Persuasion from History's Greatest Communicator. He talks about the the use of arguments (and how Jesus used them), the importance of rhetoric for the communicator (and Aristotle's framework), the difference between persuasion and manipulation, the proper use of emotion, using imagery and idiom, rhetoric vs. sophistry, making messages more memorable, Jesus as a debater, elements of discipleship, and more. The website for the book is here.

Enjoy.

Michael Behe Interview

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with biochemist Michael Behe, Professor of Biochemistry at Lehigh University. He is also a leading voice in the Intelligent Design community and Fellow of the Discovery Institute. He talks about Intelligent Design, detecting design in molecular systems, his views on evolution, Lenski's fruit fly research, irreducible complexity, philosophical presuppositions, and more.

Enjoy.

Michael Licona Interview (2)

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Michael Licona, the Apologetics Coordinator at the North American Mission Board and Research Professor of New Testament at Southern Evangelical Seminary. He discusses his new book The Resurrection of Jesus: A New Historiographical Approach, philosophy of history and historical methodology, the knowability of the past, historical facts, miracle claims and the historian, judging the relevant evidence, assessing the historical bedrock, weighing competing historical hypotheses, struggling through bias and doubts, and more.

Enjoy.

David K. Clark Interview

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with David K. Clark, executive vice president and provost of Bethel University and author of Dialogical Apologetics. He talks about apologetics as a practice (and not just a discipline), being a specialist and being a generalist, his book Dialogical Apologetics, relationships and dialogue, how dialogical apologetics applies to methodology, paying attention to emotions as well as questions, "less is more," becoming better communicators, belief formation, using creativity, the power of your character, advice to apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Alan Shlemon Interview

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Alan Shlemon of Stand to Reason. He talks about how he came to be part of Stand to Reason, how to speak with Muslims and understand the issues, the subject of pro-life tactics, pro-life training, pro-life arguments, dealing with the difficult subject of homosexuality, the art of communication and the power of using questions, and more.

Enjoy.

Brett Kunkle Interview

Sat, 16 Oct 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Brett Kunkle of Stand to Reason. He talks about how he got into youth ministry and defending the faith, preparing young people to defend what they believe, the challenges young people face, theological and apologetics mission trips, making apologetics accessible, advice for young people, the importance of mentors, advice to youth ministers, and more.

Enjoy.

Justin Brierley Interview

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's guest is Justin Brierley, host of the Unbelievable? Radio program. For those who are fans of his show, you may enjoy today's discussion. He talks about how the show got started, the secular climate in the UK, the importance of dialogue, dealing with bias, moderating challenging discussions, and upcoming shows.

Enjoy.

John Frame Interview

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with John Frame, Professor of Systematic Theology and Philosophy at Reformed Theological Seminary. He talks about how he got into theology, the role of philosophy for the apologist, Cornelius Van Til and his influence, presuppositional apologetics, common misconceptions about the presuppositional approach, differences in practice, recommended books, arguing in circles, the use of evidence in apologetics, and advice to apologists.

Enjoy.

Mikel Del Rosario Interview

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Mikel Del Rosario. He's an apologist, speaker, and trainer based in California. He talks about his background and how he got into defending the faith, the goal of making apologetics accessible, the issue of tolerance, the need for apologetics in the local church, his experience and advice in starting apologetics initiatives, and his work as a trainer.

Enjoy.

Ellis Potter Interview

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Ellis Potter, pastor of the Basel International English speaking church of Lausanne, Switzerland. He talks about his journey from Zen Buddhism to Christianity through his encounters with Francis Schaeffer and L'Abri, Schaeffer's presuppositional approach, apologetics as a function of love (1 Cor 13), apologetics/kategorics, "taking the roof off," a long-term mentality toward evangelism, "subjective" truth, and more.

Enjoy.

Sean McDowell & Jonathan Morrow Interview

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 18:00:00 +0000

This is an audio interview with Sean McDowell and Jonathan Morrow about their new book: Is God Just a Human Invention? - and it's well worth the read. It tackles 18 objections raised by the new atheists while making a positive case for Christianity. In addition, McDowell and Morrow bring in contributions from scholars and apologists such as Greg Koukl, John Warwick Montgomery, Gary Habermas, William Dembski, Doug Geivett, Paul Copan, Frank Turek, Darrell Bock, Doug Groothuis, and more.

This interview with Sean and Jonathan explores some of the themes of their book and their goal behind writing it.

Enjoy.

Bruce Little Interview

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Dr. Bruce Little, Associate Professor of Philosophy of Religion at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is also author of A Creation-Order Theodicy: God and Gratuitous Evil. He talks about how he got into apologetics and philosophy of religion (after being a pastor for 30 years), the subject of evil and theodicy, the common approaches to theodicy, his insights into the subject, and strategies and advice for Christian apologists.

Enjoy.

J.P. Moreland Interview

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Christian philosopher J.P. Moreland. He talks about how he got involved in the areas of philosophy and apologetics, the three points of the Kingdom Triangle, reliance on the Holy Spirit in evangelism, encouragement in devotional life, the concepts he covers in The God Question, a holistic approach to apologetics, advice for apologists, some tips for lifelong learning and more.

Enjoy.

Edgar Andrews Interview

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with scientist Edgar Andrews, Emeritus Professor of Materials at the University of London and author of Who Made God: Searching for a Theory of Everything. He talks about his career as a scientist, his debate with Richard Dawkins in 1986, the relationship between faith and science, his reason for writing Who Made God, his hypothetical approach to the God question, his critique of Victor Stenger's hypothesis, advice for apologists, communicating to "the man on the street" and more.

Enjoy.

Matthew Flannagan Interview

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Matthew Flannagan, philosopher and blogger at MandM.org.nz. Matt talks about how he got into philosophy of religion, his blog posts on the Genocide of the Canaanites, his recent debate on morality with Raymond Bradley, morality, the benefit of public debate, and more.

Enjoy.

Chris Shannon Interview

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Chris Shannon, leader of the Reasonable Faith chapter in Dallas, and the director of Dr. William Lane Craig's Reasonable Faith Chapter initiative. He talks about the Reasonable Faith chapters, getting apologetics into the local church, strategies for small group initiatives, and tips for getting started.

Enjoy.

Douglas Geivett Interview

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Douglas Geivett. He is Professor of Philosophy of Religion and Ethics at Talbot School of Theology and Biola University. Doug's blog is here. He talks about his background and influences in philosophy and apologetics, his motivation in his field of study, his co-authored book In Defense of Miracles, arguing from miracles to God, the difference between background beliefs and background evidence, direct experience of miracles, assessing miracle claims from other religions, the role of a defense of miracles in one's apologetic, advice to Christian apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Christopher Brooks Interview

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Christopher Brooks, Senior pastor of Evangel Ministries in Detroit, Michigan. (blog here) He is also host of the Equipped for Life radio broadcast which airs daily on Salem Communications. (audio archives here) He talks about the relationship between evangelism and apologetics, advice to pastors who want to get apologetics into their church, practical methods of equipping the congregation, his experience with the Biola University Masters of Arts in Apologetics program, and the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics.

Enjoy.

John Stonestreet Interview

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with John Stonestreet, Executive Director of Summit Ministries. He talks about his background, how Summit got started and how their conferences run, the main challenges facing youth today, the definition of worldviews, his worldview book, advice to Christian apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Matt Slick Interview

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with internet apologist Matt Slick of CARM.org. He talks about doing apologetics on the internet, specific challenges online, encouragement for bloggers, apologetic methodology, presuppositions and evidences, the transcendental argument for God's existence (TAG), cosmological arguments, advice for future apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Gary Habermas Interview

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:00:00 +0000

In this interview, Dr. Gary Habermas talks about his background and studies, his personal struggle with doubt, his apologetic methodology, the most common misunderstandings of the minimal facts approach to the resurrection, fallacious appeals to authority, considerations for those considering PhD studies, pitfalls to avoid, core answers to those dealing with doubt, his research with Near Death Experiences, and more. Gary's website is here, with audio resources, written articles, video, and more.

Enjoy.

Keith Kendrex Interview

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with apologist Keith Kendrex of Evidence4Faith. Keith talks about getting saved through reading apologetics, apologetic influences, his experience with the Biola Masters of Arts in Apologetics program, practical applications of apologetics training, starting his radio program, advice to others, Toastmasters, and more.

Enjoy.

Paul Copan Interview

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Dr. Paul Copan. He talks about how Christians should deal with hard questions, finding balance in communication, using the moral argument in conversation, common errors when using the moral argument, the content of his upcoming book, Is God a Moral Monster?, advice for the apologist, and more.

Enjoy.

James White Interview

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Dr. James White of Alpha & Omega Ministries. He talks about how he became a Christian, how he got started in apologetics, and his apologetic methodology. He also gives advice to Christian apologists, talks about his numerous debates, his upcoming debate with Christopher Hitchens, and suggested disciplines for apologists.

Enjoy.

Tom Gilson Interview

Mon, 31 May 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Tom Gilson of ThinkingChristian.net. Tom talks about his background and how he got started in apologetics, pitfalls for bloggers, using blogging for apologetic discussions, his work with Campus Crusade for Christ, and strategic planning and effectiveness in apologetics.

Enjoy.

Douglas Groothuis Interview

Mon, 24 May 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with philosopher and apologist Douglas Groothuis (Denver Seminary). He talks about how he got started in philosophy, his top 3 influential books (The God Who is There, Pensées, Purity of Heart is to Will One Thing), the cumulative case approach, natural theology, advice to apologists, spiritual and practical disciplines, his view on technology, and more.

Enjoy.

Clay Jones Interview

Mon, 17 May 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Clay Jones (his blog is right here), assistant professor at the Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics program at Biola University, teaching courses in Theodicy & the Issue of Evil, apologetics research and writing, and defending the resurrection. But the area of focus he is known for is the topic of evil and suffering. In this interview he talks about the issue of evil, his recommended resources for learning about the issue of evil, the judgment of the Canaanites, and more.

Enjoy.

R. Scott Smith Interview (part 2)

Mon, 10 May 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is (part two of two) with R. Scott Smith, Associate Professor of Ethics and Christian Apologetics at Biola University. He talks about postmodernism, what it is, and how it is affecting the Church. He shares his thoughts on the good and the bad in the emerging church movement and the works of Brian McClaren.

Enjoy.

R. Scott Smith Interview (part 1)

Mon, 03 May 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is (part one of two) with R. Scott Smith, Associate Professor of Ethics and Christian Apologetics at Biola University. He talks about his background and influences in ethics (J.P. Moreland, Dallas Willard), his opinion on the moral argument, the idea of naturalism grounding morality, the benefits of understanding ethical theory, and his recommended books on morality: Moral Choices by Scott Rae and Relativism by Koukl and Beckwith. Scott's own published works include Virtue Ethics and Moral Knowledge: Philosophy of Language after MacIntyre and Hauerwas and Truth and the New Kind of Christian: The Emerging Effects of Postmodernism in the Church. Scott also mentions the article "Knowledge & Naturalism" by Dallas Willard as well as J.P. Moreland's book Scaling the Secular City.

Enjoy.

Jonathan Morrow Interview

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Jonathan Morrow (blog, podcast, and more resources). He talks about the role of apologetics in pastoral ministry, how pastors can incorporate apologetics into their ministry, and his book Welcome to College: A Christ Follower's Guide to the Journey. This includes
• why young people walk away from the faith
• intellectual and moral challenges at college
• practical advice for those new to college life
• how young people can grow spiritually in college

Enjoy.

Sarah Ankenman Interview

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Sarah Ankenman, founder of the International Society of Women in Apologetics. She talks about her influences, the importance of women in apologetics, ISWA, how to get involved with the society, and ISWA's resources. Also mentioned: ICR, Veritas Evangelical Seminary, Norman Geisler's books, and the International Society of Christian Apologetics.

Enjoy.

Michael Licona Interview

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Michael Licona. He is the Apologetics Coordinator at the North American Mission Board. Mike is a frequent speaker on university campuses, churches, and has appeared on dozens of radio and television programs. His Ph.D. is in New Testament Studies from the University of Pretoria. His website is RisenJesus.com and more of his material can be found at 4truth.net.

He talks about his ministry, influences, his upcoming book, his criteria for justifying historical hypotheses, resources he would recommend for studying the resurrection, the Certified Apologetics Instructor program, and more.

Enjoy.

Craig Hazen Interview

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Dr. Craig Hazen of Biola University. He is the founder and director of the M.A. program in apologetics at Biola and the editor of Philosophia Christi (of the Evangelical Philosophical Society). He talks about his background and influences, Philosophia Christi, his book Five Sacred Crossings, the Biola apologetics program, their certificate program, advice to apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Greg Koukl Interview

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Greg Koukl, founder and president of Stand to Reason. He talks about his influences, how he got started defending the faith, the ambassador approach to apologetics, how to think on your feet, preparing for a debate, the importance of mentors, Christian character, and much more. Lots of great insights.

Enjoy.

Phil Fernandes Interview

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with pastor and apologist Phil Fernandes. He talks about his influences as a Christian apologist and philosopher, his debate with Michael Martin, notable books, his most recent book The Atheist Delusion, insights and advice for apologists, apologetics methodology, his vast treasure trove of audio resources, and more.

Enjoy.

Peter S. Williams Interview

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with philosopher and apologist Peter S. Williams (blog here). In this audio, Peter talks about his work with Damaris Trust, his book A Sceptic's Guide to Atheism, his background as a philosopher, apologetics in "3D," the use of rhetoric, essential areas of learning for apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

James Spiegel Interview

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Author James Spiegel's newest book is entitled The Making of an Atheist: How Immorality Leads to Unbelief. His main premise is that unbelief is not simply the product of intellectual objections, but is primarily moral and volitional. This is a brief interview discussing the themes in his book.

Enjoy.

Sean McDowell Interview

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Sean McDowell (bio here). He talks about growing up with an apologist father, his own journey and doubts, how young people can prepare themselves for university, the Apologetics Study Bible for Students, his debate with James Corbett, advice for people going deeper in apologetics, influential books, and more.

Enjoy.

William Lane Craig Interview

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Christian philosopher and theologian William Lane Craig. He talks about Reasonable Faith Chapters, his newest book On Guard: Defending Your Faith with Reason and Precision, how he got started in apologetics, upcoming debates, early influences (E.J. Carnell, Stuart Hackett), academic advice and insights, essential areas of study, communication skills, debate, long term goals, and more.

Enjoy.

Kenneth Samples Interview

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 19:00:00 +0000

In this interview with philosopher and theologian Kenneth Samples, he talks about how he became a philosopher, influential books, advice for apologists, the academic route, logic, tips for learning, the character of an apologist, the Biola apologetics program, Reasons to Believe, and more.

Enjoy.

Roger Morris Interview

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 19:00:00 +0000

This is an interview with blogger Roger Morris of the Faith Interface blog, which discusses the interface between science, philosophy, and the Christian faith. Roger speaks a bit about his blog, the balanced Christian life, advice in starting a blog, influential apologetics books, and learning apologetics by doing apologetics.

Enjoy.

Andy Bannister Interview

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with apologist Andy Bannister, the lead apologist for RZIM Canada. He speaks throughout the UK and Europe, as well as regularly in Canada. Andy is also a visiting lecturer for the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics, London School of Theology and Wycliffe Hall, Oxford.

Some of the topics covered in this interview include: taking the academic route in apologetics, influential books and apologists, areas of specialization, the usefulness of philosophy training, the role of theology in apologetics, potential pitfalls for the apologist, dealing with the obstinate, and more.

Enjoy.

Jim Wallace Interview

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Today's interview is with Jim Wallace of PleaseConvinceMe.com and host of the PleaseConvinceMe Podcast. As a cold case detective, Jim brings a unique perspective to his approach to apologetics and a very down-to-earth logical style. In this interview, Jim talks about his approach to the evidence (inference to the best explanation), Tacticsand apologetics, debate vs. dialogue, pitfalls to apologists, and more.

Enjoy.

Frank Turek Interview

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Apologetics 315 interviews apologist Frank Turek of CrossExamined.org. Frank has had two debates with Christopher Hitchens which can be found here and here as audio (debate videos here). He talks about his podcast, debates, tips for apologists, an upcoming conference on the 19th of January, and more.

Enjoy.

Lenny Esposito Interview

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Apologetics315 had the privilege of interviewing Lenny Esposito of Come Let Us Reason. Lenny produces a great apologetics podcast which can be found here or through iTunes here. His website contains many resources, some 150 articles, and plenty of audio.

Enjoy.

Randall Niles Interview

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 19:00:00 +0000

Here is an interview with apologist Randall Niles of AllAboutGod.com. Randall answers questions about his journey to Christianity from atheism, his ministry, and his relaunched podcast Think Again.

Enjoy.

MaryJo Sharp Interview

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 19:00:00 +0000

Here is an interview with apologist MaryJo Sharp of Confident Christianity. MaryJo answers questions about being a woman apologist, her recent debate on the resurrection, advice about apologetics, the launch of her new apologetics podcast, and more.

Enjoy.