The Lazy Approach to Evangelism | with Eric Hernandez
Feb 20, 2024
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Christian apologist Eric Hernandez discusses his new book on 'lazy evangelism' with tactics to engage non-believers effectively. Topics include essential tools for apologetics, distinguishing rebutting vs. refuting, stumping a pro-choice advocate, defending faith without Bible, Paul's principles for dialoguing, and Jesus refuting logical fallacies.
The lazy approach to evangelism focuses on asking strategic questions to challenge objections and expose fallacies.
Rebutting objections, rather than refuting them, can lead to further discussion and consideration in evangelism.
Spotting and calling out logical fallacies in arguments can help redirect conversations towards more logical reasoning.
Deep dives
Principles of the Lazy Approach to Evangelism
The lazy approach to evangelism is based on two principles: making the most use of your time and knowing how to answer. By prioritizing the main thing and asking strategic questions, this approach challenges objections and exposes fallacies.
Tool 1: Using Questions to Make a Point
Asking questions prompts the speaker to clarify their position and exposes the flaws in their reasoning. Redirecting the focus of the conversation back to the main point can sow seeds of doubt or lead to a reconsideration of their beliefs.
Tool 2: Rewording to Expose a Problem
By restating a person's position or principle, any inconsistencies or logical gaps can be revealed. This can be done by removing the fluff from the claim or applying the principle to a counter example.
Tool 3: Emphasizing Rebuttals
Focusing on rebutting objections rather than refuting them can challenge faulty assumptions or assertions, and open the door to further discussion and consideration.
Tool 4: Discernment
Recognizing when an objection doesn't warrant a direct response or when to question its foundational assumptions can help guide the conversation and avoid fruitless debates.
Tool 5: Identifying Logical Fallacies
Spotting and calling out logical fallacies in arguments can expose flaws and help redirect the conversation towards more logical reasoning. Jesus himself used this approach, questioning the Sadducees and revealing the flaws in their argument against resurrection.
Is it necessary to have all the answers to complex theological or cultural questions when talking to non-Christians? Absolutely not! But the fear of not having a response, let alone a convincing one, can be overwhelming, leading many Christians to shy away from sharing their beliefs. When you feel trapped in such situations, is there an easy way out?
Christian apologist and author Eric Hernandez knows a thing or two about how to navigate tough conversations with skeptics. This week, Frank invites Eric on the show to talk about his new book 'The Lazy Approach to Evangelism: A Simple Guide for Conversing with Nonbelievers,' a wonderful resource for Christians who want to be more effective as they engage non-Christians with the Gospel (think 'Tactics' combined with 'I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist'!). During the episode, Frank and Eric role play through a lively debate Eric recently had with a feminist lawyer on abortion and answer questions like:
What are the 5 essential tools for "lazy apologetics"?
Rebutting vs. refuting - what's the difference?
How did Eric stump a pro-choice advocate?
How can Christians defend the faith when talking to people who don't believe the Bible?
What two principles did the Apostle Paul instruct us to use when dialoguing with non-Christians?
What did Jesus do when He was confronted with a well-packaged logical fallacy?
Evangelism can be tough at times, but it's a lot easier when you get a good grasp on how to spot faulty and inconsistent ideas. As you'll hear during this conversation, learning how to graciously shift the burden of proof to your opponent can make a world of difference. Want to learn more about how to master the art of lazy apologetics? Make sure to grab your copy of 'The Lazy Approach to Evangelism' today!
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Eric's book: The Lazy Approach to Evangelism
Eric's website: http://www.erichernandezministries.com/
Debate: Eric vs. Feminist Lawyer on Abortion
Texas Apologetics: TexasApologetics.org
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