Wednesday, November 19, 2008
2008 EPS Papers (Copan)
Paul Copan
"With Gentleness and Respect" - and a Few Other Things: Suggestions and Strategies for Christian Apologetics
"With Gentleness and Respect" - and a Few Other Things: Suggestions and Strategies for Christian Apologetics
Abstract: Apologetics is the art and science of defending the Christian faith. Thus, this paper will discuss both (a) much-needed attitudes that apologists should cultivate and (b) helpful approaches and strategies for Christian apologetics. Some of these points will (should!) be self-evident to the apologist - a gracious, loving demeanor; a listening ear; a spirit can discern between smokescreens and true "seeker" questions. In terms of strategies, the paper offers advice regarding potentially contentious issues such as inerrancy, creation vs. evolution, the burden of proof, and the role of natural theology (thin vs. thick theism), and so forth.
Labels: 2008 EPS conference, apologetics, paul copan