

The State of Protestant Apologetics
Sep 17, 2025
Gavin Ortlund discusses the implications of a recent conversion to Eastern Orthodoxy for Protestant apologetics. He emphasizes the importance of remaining calm and respectful in online discussions. Ortlund calls on Protestants to better defend their rich traditions and highlights valuable patristic scholarship that often goes unnoticed. He also shares insights from his own experiences on YouTube and encourages others in the academic and pastoral fields to engage actively in online conversations about faith.
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Pause Before Responding Online
- Take a deep breath before responding to online conversions or controversies.
- Step back to avoid uncharitable reactions and see the bigger picture.
Unplug To Regain Perspective
- Touch grass: intentionally unplug from the internet to regain perspective.
- Immerse in face-to-face relationships and nature to reduce anxiety and distortion.
Protestant Positions Are Underdefended
- Protestants often concentrate on general apologetics or culture rather than defending Protestant distinctives.
- That leaves Protestantism underrepresented and misunderstood online.