Apologetics 315 Podcast

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 mindQuotes:“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 4:5–6Resources:* 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 relaunchTakeaway: 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.================================We appreciate your feedback.If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.You can follow Brian @TheBrianAutenAnd of course, you can follow @Apologetics315If 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

SummaryIn 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.================================We appreciate your feedback.If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.You can follow Brian @TheBrianAutenAnd of course, you can follow @Apologetics315If 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

SummaryBrian 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Endurance and Ethics02:07 Sabrina's Journey: From Philosophy to Ultra Running08:44 Virtue Development Through Endurance Sports15:16 The Spectrum of Virtue and Vice19:09 Habit, Discipline, and Character Formation23:00 Life Lessons from Endurance Racing25:03 Training for Life: The Christian Race28:11 Spiritual Disciplines: The Workout for Character30:29 Lessons from the Desert Fathers32:41 Understanding Intransigence in Perseverance36:01 The Balance of Perseverance and Prudence40:57 Navigating Competitiveness in Athletics45:15 Character Development Beyond Sports46:46 Influential Thinkers and ResourcesSabrina Little’s Book: The Examined Run: Why Good People Make Better Runnershttps://www.amazon.com/Examined-Run-People-Better-Runners/dp/0197678696https://www.sabrinalittle.com================================We appreciate your feedback.If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.You can follow Brian @TheBrianAutenAnd of course, you can follow @Apologetics315If 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

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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests03:09 The Journey into Comic Books05:49 Creating a Graphic Novel: The Collaboration09:11 Exploring Themes of Identity and Value11:50 Balancing Christian and Secular Perspectives14:54 The Challenges of Writing for Diverse Audiences20:27 Struggles of Identity in Law Enforcement22:28 The Role of Apologetics in Fiction24:40 Creative Process in Graphic Novels26:48 Character Development and Artistic Vision30:11 Exploring Meaning in Life and Death34:45 The Impact of Fiction on Moral Development38:41 Future Directions for the Series================================We appreciate your feedback.If you’re on X, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.You can follow Brian @TheBrianAutenAnd of course, you can follow @Apologetics315If 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

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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest03:30 The Significance of Logic in Christianity09:55 Jesus as a Logician and Thinker16:08 The Importance of Discernment in a Messy World21:58 Understanding Cognitive Biases29:56 The Role of Science and Philosophy in Objectivity37:33 The Power of Logic and Critical Thinking40:08 Understanding Logical Fallacies48:37 The Importance of Character in Education49:05 Books That Shape the Mind56:14 The Church as a School01:02:58 Mastering a Topic Through Worldview Thinking01:09:11 Utilizing the Book for Learning================================We appreciate your feedback.If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.You can follow Brian @TheBrianAutenAnd of course, you can follow @Apologetics315If 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

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================================We appreciate your feedback.If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.You can follow Brian @TheBrianAutenAnd of course, you can follow @Apologetics315If 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

SummaryIn 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Apologetics 315 Podcast03:11 Interview with Eric Chabot: The Resurrection and the Messiah09:38 Understanding the Concept of Messiah13:52 Exploring First Century Messianic Expectations19:17 Challenges in Conversations about the Messiah23:55 Making the Case for Jesus as the Jewish Messiah29:07 Israel's Calling and the Light to the Nations32:16 Jewish Identity and Beliefs34:38 Common Objections to Jesus as Messiah37:25 Evidential Concerns and the Resurrection41:31 Isaiah 53: The Messianic Debate47:32 Understanding Jewish Reactions to Jesus54:14 Resources for Further Study================================We appreciate your feedback.If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.You can follow Brian @TheBrianAutenAnd of course, you can follow @Apologetics315If 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

SummaryIn 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Overview03:54 Interview with J. Warner Wallace09:06 The Dangers of Fame and Power Within the Church11:26 Marriage and Identity13:18 The Proximity Principle and Friendships15:28 The Fascination with True Crime18:05 Writing with Personal Interest and Creativity21:53 Relevance for Believers and Non-Believers23:23 Addressing Both Believers and Unbelievers24:17 Redefining Identity in Christ: Finding Meaning and Purpose26:13 Flourishing Post-Trauma: Rethinking Worldview and Expectations29:06 The Power of a Christian Worldview: Hope and Reduced Fear of Dying36:53 Finding True Meaning: Making Christ Known Through Our Lives41:34 Navigating the Risk of Suffering: The Resources of the Christian Worldview================================We appreciate your feedback.If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.You can follow Brian @TheBrianAutenAnd of course, you can follow @Apologetics315If 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

SummaryRobbie 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/outpostsTakeawaysSTR 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.Chapters00:00 The Purpose of STR Outposts03:16 Starting an STR Outpost at Your Church06:00 Flexibility and Target Audience of STR Outposts22:33 Equipping Local Churches with Apologetics Resources26:24 Navigating Doctrinal Distinctives and Flexibility in Apologetics38:37 Support and Resources for Outpost Directors42:26 Growth and Inclusivity of the Outpost Program================================We appreciate your feedback.If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.You can follow Brian @TheBrianAutenAnd of course, you can follow @Apologetics315If 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

SummaryIn 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.TakeawaysThe 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:17 Guest Introduction03:33 The Incompatibility of Naturalism and Logical Principles05:01 Reason as the Observable Phenomenon06:29 The Plausibility of God as the Ground of Logical Principles16:21 The Ad Hoc Nature of Platonism24:23 The Limitations of Platonism26:14 The Need for a Ground of Logical Principles27:13 The Argument from Reason and the Existence of God30:07 The Platonic View vs. the Theistic View35:17 Jesus as the Originating Logical Principle39:38 Jesus as the Ground of Being and Logic51:03 The End of Every Philosophical Question is God================================We appreciate your feedback.If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.You can follow Brian @TheBrianAutenAnd of course, you can follow @Apologetics315If 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

Introduction- Chad and Brian discuss their favorite and most memorable debates between Christian apologists/philosophers and atheists/skepticsChad's Debate Picks1. 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 Craig2. 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 appeals4. Braxton Hunter vs. Matt Dillahunty (2019) - Hunter exposes issues in Dillahunty's epistemology - Effectively argues for Kalam cosmological argument and argument from free will5. 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 Ayala6. 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 deity7. Paul Draper vs. William Lane Craig - Craig debates a formidable philosophical adversary - Interesting to see Craig on his heels against some unfamiliar argumentsBrian'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 explain2. Norm Geisler vs. Paul Kurtz on John Ankerberg Show - Admires Geisler's rapid-fire responses to a breadth of objectionsBonus: 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 seenFind links here: https://truthbomb.blogspot.com/2024/02/some-of-my-favorite-debates.html================================We appreciate your feedback.If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.You can follow Brian @TheBrianAutenAnd of course, you can follow @Apologetics315If 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

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 channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@RethinkingHellas 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.================================We appreciate your feedback.If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.You can follow Brian @TheBrianAutenAnd of course, you can follow @Apologetics315If 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