Reviewed by: Reviewed by Hope Bolinger, a Professional Writing major at Taylor University

Introduction

Title: Apologetics at the Cross: An Introduction for Christian Witness

Author: Joshua D Chatraw and Mark D. Allen

Publisher: Zondervan

Publication Date: 2018

Format: Print book

Length: 336 pages

OVERVIEW

Culture is confusing. With an increased shift toward subjectivist therapeutic moralistic deism, Christians need to know the defense behind their faith now more than ever. Tackling just about every facet of apologetics from the history to how to handle topics teeming in post-modernism, this book provides the outline needed for Christians to use in an ever-darkening world.

Despite its daunting size, for the most part, the book is accessible for Christians who need an introduction to the defense of the faith. Both authors provide concrete illustrations to drive certain points home. For instance, they compare the methodology of apologetics to giving someone a map to navigate toward a location. Different people need different maps and modes of transportation. Not only does this solve hundreds (if not thousands) of years of church debate about the methodology of apologetics, but it provides readers with something substantial they can use in the practical every day.

The authors also present thorough research in terms of church history as well as modern methods and the worldviews Christians will encounter now. As they show tangible objections and ways to handle hostility with grace, they give readers a helpful guide. Although not Mere Christianity by any means, and at times a bit esoteric for an “introduction,” the book overall represents one of the best current guides Christians have for apologetics.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5)

5 out of 5

Suggested Audience

All Christians, particularly those who want to have a strong defense of their faith at the ready.

Christian Impact

The Bible calls Christians to give a reason for the hope they have in gentleness and respect. This book outlines ways they can do so. Not only will they tackle some of the hardest philosophical and logical problems secular society tends to launch at Christianity (problem of evil, seeming paradox of the Trinity, etc.), but it can help them to do so in an inviting way.

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