CNLP 647 | Lee Strobel on The Future of Evangelism, The Best Arguments For and Against Christianity, and Sharing Truth in an Age that Doesn't Believe in it
Apr 30, 2024
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Award-winning author and former journalist Lee Strobel discusses the future of evangelism, logical trip lines, best arguments for and against Christianity, and sharing truth in a skeptical age.
The future of evangelism is expected to be relational and informational, emphasizing the importance of establishing genuine connections for effective outreach.
Addressing doubts and questions in one's faith requires building trustworthy relationships to openly explore uncertainties and seek guidance for deepening understanding.
Maintaining a balance between the evidence of God's existence and human free will is crucial, highlighting the delicate interplay between evidence, choice, and faith in relating to God.
Deep dives
The Divine Hiddenness Objection to God
The most effective argument made by skeptics today is the divine hiddenness objection to God, popularized by figures like John Steingard. This objection questions why God would not make his existence more obvious if he desires a relationship with us. However, experts like Kenneth Samples argue that the problem lies with humanity suppressing evidence of God, as biblical references suggest that the evidence of God's existence from nature is clear. Critics like Thomas Nagel express a desire not to believe in God, and William Lane Craig emphasizes that God seeks a saving relationship rather than mere acknowledgement of his existence.
Challenges in Building Authentic Relationships
The lack of authentic friendships and deep relationships among church leaders, particularly under the age of 45, is a significant challenge. Surveys indicate that only 18% of younger church leaders have excellent relationships. This crisis of loneliness and isolation highlights the importance of developing trusting connections where leaders can openly share doubts and questions without fear of judgment. Building enduring friendships and mentorship relationships can provide critical support and perspective amidst the challenges of ministry.
Navigating Doubts and Questions
When faced with doubts and questions in one's faith, it is essential to have a trusted circle of relationships where one can openly explore uncertainties. The journey of grappling with challenging issues and seeking answers should be approached with honesty and vulnerability. Engaging in fruitful discussions with mentors, friends, or experts can offer valuable insights and guidance in navigating doubts and strengthening one's faith. Seeking intellectual and emotional support during periods of uncertainty can deepen understanding and provide clarity in faith exploration.
Balancing Evidence of God's Existence and Free Will
The balance between God's existence being evident and maintaining human free will presents a complex challenge in matters of faith. The argument revolves around how overt God's presence should be to allow individuals the choice to believe freely. Scholars like William Lane Craig suggest that God seeks not merely acknowledgment of his existence, but a genuine relationship through free will. The historical examples of God's clear presence at times like the parting of the Red Sea indicate that abundant evidence does not guarantee unwavering faith, illustrating the delicate interplay of evidence, free will, and faith in relating to God.
Discussion on the hiddenness of God and the existence of affirmative evidence for Christianity
The podcast episode delves into the concept of the hiddenness of God, highlighting the existence of affirmative evidence for Christianity despite the questions raised by God's hiddenness. It explores how various sources such as science, philosophy, and history provide substantial evidence for the truth of Christianity, encouraging listeners to consider these aspects even amidst doubts and questions about God's hiddenness.
Importance of apologetics and maintaining focus on evangelism in discussions about faith
The episode emphasizes the significance of apologetics in defending and explaining faith while cautioning against turning it into a mere scholarly exercise detached from its core purpose of evangelism. It stresses the relational aspect of apologetics, underlining the need to preserve relationships for effective influence and to prioritize reaching people with the message of Christianity over winning arguments. Additionally, it highlights the role of compassion in uniting churches and the value of ensuring that discussions about faith lead to meaningful engagement and spiritual growth.
Lee Strobel, award-winning author and former journalist, talks about sharing truth in an age that doesn't believe in it.
Lee discusses logical trip lines, why the future of evangelism is probably relational and informational, and the best arguments for and against Christianity.
Church leaders, the race we're running is a marathon, not a sprint, so don’t go it alone. You're invited to build community and grow with other church operational leaders at The Church Network Conference on July 9-12 in Lexington, KY.
Is your church united, both locally and globally? Partnering with Compassion in one of their 29 field countries is a great place to start. Over the years, our church has held several very special weekends where we come together to sponsor children and Compassion equips us with excellence every time.
