Thinking About Christian Apologetics: What It Is and Why We Do It

by James K. Beilby

Overview

Most introductions to apologetics begin with the "how to" of defending the faith, diving right into the major apologetic arguments and the body of evidence. For those who want a more foundational look at this contested theological discipline, this book examines Christian apologetics in its nature, history, approaches, objections and practice.What is apologetics? How has apologetics developed? What are the basic apologetic approaches? Why should we practice apologetics? Countless Christians today are seeking a responsibe way to defend and commend their faith. If you are one them, Thinking About Christian Apologetics is the place to start.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780830839452
Publisher:	InterVarsity Press
Publication date:	09/28/2011
Pages:	214
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.10(h) x 0.70(d)

About the Author

James K. Beilby is professor of systematic and philosophical theology at Bethel University in St. Paul, Minnesota. His books include Why Bother with Truth? (with David Clark) and Epistemology as Theology. He has edited (with Paul Eddy) Divine Foreknowledge: Four Views, The Nature of the Atonement: Four Views, Justification: Five Views and the award-winning The Historical Jesus: Five Views.

Table of Contents

Preface
1. What Is Christian Apologetics?
2. Patristic and Medieval Apologetics
3. Modern and Contemporary Apologetics
4. Varieties of Apologetics
5. Philosophical Objections to Apologetics
6. Biblical and Theological Objections to Apologetics
7. Doing Apologetics Well
A Bibliography of Works on Christian Apologetics
Notes
Name and Subject Index

What People are Saying About This

Craig J. Hazen

"This is a terrific little book--and much needed. This isn't a book that does apologetics, this is a book about apologetics. It answers all the important questions that those who want to defend the faith need addressed. What is apologetics? What is the biblical case? How did the field develop? What are the various methods?And most importantly, how can we effectively use apologetics to bring people to faith and glorify God? Dr. Beilby nails it in this splendid introduction. This is a must-read for anyone entering the study of apologetics."
— Craig J. Hazen, Ph.D., director of the MA program in Christian Apologetics, Biola University

Gary R. Habermas

"Jim Beilby's volume is distinctive--it's not your normal apologetics textbook. As such, it is an excellent addition to the growing study in this field. It makes numerous seldom-made distinctions, is handy, and contains dozens of gems. From a brief overview of the history of apologetics, to the major varieties and methods, to answering various objections, and even closing with a 'how to' chapter containing a wealth of practical insights, this handbook brings together under one cover a potpourri of items that will not be found in any other text. I recommend it highly."
— Gary R. Habermas, Distinguished Research Professor, Liberty University & Theological Seminary

Francis J. Beckwith

"This is a wonderful book. It provides historical, conceptual and philosophical understandings of apologetics without ignoring the interpersonal aspects of sharing one's faith and the pastoral obligation to equip the church. Although he concerns himself with some sophisticated arguments and issues, Professor Beilby is remarkably clear and readable."
— Francis J. Beckwith, professor of philosophy and church-state studies, Baylor University

Paul Copan

"Finally--a balanced, readable, yet sufficiently nuanced introduction to Christian apologetics! Beilby covers much terrain as he ably summarizes the central themes and assesses the relevant literature. A terrific textbook!"
— Paul Copan, professor and Pledger Family Chair of Philosophy and Ethics, Palm Beach Atlantic University

Editorial Reviews

"Jim Beilby's volume is distinctive—it's not your normal apologetics textbook. As such, it is an excellent addition to the growing study in this field. It makes numerous seldom-made distinctions, is handy, and contains dozens of gems. From a brief overview of the history of apologetics, to the major varieties and methods, to answering various objections, and even closing with a 'how to' chapter containing a wealth of practical insights, this handbook brings together under one cover a potpourri of items that will not be found in any other text. I recommend it highly."

Gary R. Habermas

"Finally—a balanced, readable, yet sufficiently nuanced introduction to Christian apologetics! Beilby covers much terrain as he ably summarizes the central themes and assesses the relevant literature. A terrific textbook!"

Paul Copan

"This book deserves a place amongst the argument-heavy apologetics texts currently in use."

Todd T.W. Daly

"This excellent book is practical and clear, appropriately biblical and theological, suitably historical and philosophical, and basic without being simplistic. Anyone who aspires to understand the apologetics landscape and to adopt an effective way to communicate with skeptics and critics of Christianity will be helped by this book."

Glenn R. Kreider

"This is a terrific little book—and much needed. This isn't a book that does apologetics; this is a book about apologetics. It answers all the important questions that those who want to defend the faith need addressed. What is apologetics? What is the biblical case? How did the field develop? What are the various methods? And most importantly, how can we effectively use apologetics to bring people to faith and glorify God? Dr. Beilby nails it in this splendid introduction. This is a must-read for anyone entering the study of apologetics."

Craig J. Hazen

"This is a wonderful book. It provides historical, conceptual and philosophical understandings of apologetics without ignoring the interpersonal aspects of sharing one's faith and the pastoral obligation to equip the church. Although he concerns himself with some sophisticated arguments and issues, Professor Beilby is remarkably clear and readable."

Francis J. Beckwith