The Apologist‘s Bookshelf: Recent Episodes
garyzacharias
I‘m Gary Zacharias, professor of English and an avid reader. I‘m also passionate about Christian apologetics, which has to do with making a case for the truth of Christianity. In this podcast I‘d like to introduce you to various books that have meant a lot to me over the years and have a prominent place on my bookshelf.
Dr. Jeff Myers, president of Summit Ministries, discusses why, contrary to popular thought, truth can be known.
Book: Truth Changes Everything by Dr. Jeff Myers
Purchase book here
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
John Lennox, professor and author, uses chapter 7 to give the reader some idea of the vast complexity of the living cell and DNA. He does this to show the difficulty of life arising from chance.
Book: God's Undertaker by John Lennox
Purchase book here
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Rebecca McLaughlin answers a question often asked these days: Doesn't religion cause violence?
Book: Confronting Christianity by Rebecca McLaughlin
Purchase book here
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Hugh Ross, astrophysicist and founder of Reasons to Believe, discusses the idea of a multiverse to explain design in the universe and deals with challenges to the fine-tuning seen throughout the universe.
Book: The Creator and the Cosmos by Hugh Ross
Purchase book here
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Tim Keller, noted pastor and author, responds to the issue of the Christian claim of absolute truth. Does this make Christianity a straightjacket?
Book: The Reason for God by Tim Keller
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
John Lennox, university professor and noted author, compares the Genesis account of creation to the literature of contemporary ancient cultures.
Book: Seven Days That Divide the World by John Lennox
Purchase book here
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Chapter 7 of this book gives a moral argument for the existence of God.
Book: To Everyone an Answer edited by Francis Beckwith, William Lane Craig, and J.P. Moreland
Purchase book here
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This is a collection of practical strategies for getting a conversation started with Mormons. In chapter 15, a former Mormon tells how to use the Columbo tactic--asking good questions.
Book: Sharing the Good News with Mormons (edited by Eric Johnson and Sean McDowell)
Purchase book here
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Harry Blamires challenges Christians to develop a Christian mind. One characteristic is a supernatural orientation, which sees God as the ultimate reality. This worldview clashes with the current idea that there is nothing beyond the natural world.
Book: The Christian Mind by Harry Blamires
Purchase book here
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Mark Eastman and Chuck Smith discuss two questions relating to the issue of Jesus as the long-awaited Jewish Messiah--Was he described as the Son of God in Jewish scriptures? Will Messiah come twice, according to these scriptures?
Book: The Search for Messiah by Mark Eastman and Chuck Smith
Purchase book here
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Tim Keller, best-selling author and pastor, asks in his first chapter why getting your heart's deepest desire is so often a disaster. Many times we fashion these desires into idols.
Book: Counterfeit Gods by Tim Keller
Purchase book here
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Philip Sampson shows in chapter 1 how the story of Galileo and the church has been distorted to make Christianity look bad.
Book: 6 Modern Myths by Philip Sampson
Purchase book here
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
James Emery White, pastor and professor of theology, discusses three cultural currents that are shaping our modern world--secularization, pluralization, and privatization. He explains what these have left in their wake.
Book: Serious Times by James Emery White
Purchase book here
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
J. P. Moreland, noted author, philosopher, and professor, talks of our hunger for drama in what he calls a "thin world."
Book: Kingdom Triangle by J. P. Moreland
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Lynn Wilder, a former tenured professor at Brigham Young University, discusses LDS doctrinal basics that differ from traditional biblical doctrine.
Book: A Personal Encounter with Mormonism by Lynn Wilder
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
The first chapter in this best-selling book discusses the fascinating possibility that the Shroud of Turin is the burial cloth of Jesus.
Book: The Jesus Discoveries by Jeremiah J. Johnston
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Daniel Darling asks a key question: Since when does praying to Jesus, loving America, and saluting the flag make you an extremist?
Book: In Defense of Christian Patriotism by Daniel Darling
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This book seeks to give Christians effective ways to share the good news of Jesus. In chapter 4 he challenges excuses we all use to avoid sharing with others.
Book: Unsilenced by James Boccardo
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This podcast looks at a magazine called Salvo, which discusses important recent developments in science, sex, and society. I discuss several interesting articles in a recent issue. People can access for free 20 years of Salvo magazine articles by going to salvomag.com.
Salvo magazine published by the Fellowship of St. James
Website for the magazine here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Neil Lightfoot covers the area of textual criticism--figuring out what the original Greek text of the New Testament said. He also explores textual variations to show they are not a threat to understanding the original text.
Book: How We Got the Bible by Neil Lightfoot
Purchase book here
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Josh McDowell and his son Sean McDowell answer several questions people have asked--Is it possible to know the truth? Is some truth just personal preference? Is God sexist? Is God racist?
Book: 77 FAQs About God and the Bible by Josh McDowell and Sean McDowell
Purchase book here
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Paul Copan deals with three questions related to truth and reality--Why not just look out for yourself? Isn't it ok to do what you want just as long as you don't hurt anyone? Why is God so arrogant and egotistical?
Book: When God Goes to Starbucks by Paul Copan
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
In chapter 7 John Lennox deals with artificial general intelligence and considers important issues: our brains as computers, evolution, and possible world domination by AGI.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: 2084 by John Lennox
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This concludes the chapter on New Age beliefs.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: The Compact Guide to World Religions by Dean Halverson, general editor
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This podcast covers the first part of a look at New Age beliefs.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: The Compact Guide to World Religions by Dean Halverson (general editor)
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Lee Strobel tackles a very common complaint about Christianity: It's offensive to claim Jesus is the only way to God.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: The Case for Faith by Lee Strobel
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Neil Shenvi and Pat Sawyer have written a powerful book asserting a biblical vision of race, gender, and sexuality. It's easier to read than their other book dealing with woke ideology (Critical Dilemma) and more practical. This podcast covers the four pillars of contemporary critical theory and fallacies of those espousing woke ideas. This is a book we should all read.
Book: Post Woke by Neil Shenvi and Pat Sawyer
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Norm Geisler deals with other religious worldviews in chapter four--atheism, deism, pantheism, panentheism, finite godism, and polytheism. For each he discusses its view of God, the world, evil, miracles, and value/ethics.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: When Skeptics Ask by Norm Geisler
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Frank Turek, in chapter 4 of his book, argues that there can be no objective morality unless God exists.
Book: Stealing From God by Frank Turek
Purchase book here
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
J. P. Moreland starts his book by explaining the loss of the Christian mind in American Christianity and what that has done to the church.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: Love Your God With All Your Mind by J. P. Moreland
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Paul Copan deals with two challenges to Christianity in chapters 13 and 14--How can God be three and one? Isn't the idea of God becoming a man incoherent?
Book: That's Just Your Interpretation by Paul Copan
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Bart Ehrman, best-selling author and professor, tackles the historical sources for Jesus, how to reconstruct the life of the historical Jesus, and the role of women in the ministry of Jesus.
Book: Truth and Fiction in the Da Vinci Code by Bart Ehrman
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Two keys questions are dealt with here--Did Jesus really exist? Can we believe today that Jesus worked miracles?
Book: Evidence for God by Dembski and Licona
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Charlie Campbell gives short answers to some interesting questions--How can you say Jesus is the only way to God? Wasn't the deity of Christ an invention by the church during the fourth century at the Council of Nicea? How can a loving God send somebody to hell? Haven't certain books of the Bible been lost? Isn't there a conflict between the God in the Old Testament, who is often portrayed as cruel, and the God of the New Testament who seems very loving?
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: One Minute Answers to Skeptics' Top Forty Questions by Charlie Campbell
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Kevin DeYoung, pastor and author, has a book that is called a "liberating approach to finding God's will." In this podcast, I cover his chapter on God's will of decree and will of desire. He asks if God has a specific plan for our lives.
Book: Just Do Something by Kevin DeYoung
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Hugh Ross, noted astrophysicist and founder of Reasons to Believe, deals with two interesting questions in this podcast--Are we alone in the universe? Could life exist on a moon rather than a planet?
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: Improbable Planet by Hugh Ross
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
I jumped around and picked three topics--the date of the Exodus, the character of the Biblical prophets, and apocalyptic literature in the Bible.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: Holman Bible Handbook by David Dockery (general editor)
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Gary Habermas and J.P. Moreland discuss the idea of reincarnation in the eighth chapter of this book, now called Beyond Death.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: Immortality (now called Beyond Death) by Gary Habermas and J. P. Moreland
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Historian Rodney Stark opens his book by describing early Muslim conquests in lands that were once Christian.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: God's Battalions by Rodney Stark
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
In chapter 6 of the book, the author discusses the fall of the human race in Genesis and the ongoing battle within our hearts in which unhelpful desires wage war with our conscience. He ties this in to the issue of gender dysphoria.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: God and the Transgender Debate by Andrew T. Walker
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Greg Koukl challenges the idea that the story of Jesus is simply a recycled version of pagan religions.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: Faith Is Not Wishing by Greg Koukl
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
In chapter 7 Lee Strobel interviews a professor of religious studies at Indiana University about the use of scientific evidence to support miracle accounts.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the b
Book: The Case for Miracles by Lee Strobel
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This book is dedicated to preparing young Christians for a challenging world. Chapter 4 focuses on helping them develop a worldview that brings significance.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: So the Next Generation Will Know by Sean McDowell and J. Warner Wallace
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Hank Hanegraaff provides reasoned, biblical responses to many questions dealing with resurrection. In this podcast I cover three questions he answers--Do believers receive resurrected bodies when they die or when Christ returns? If heaven is perfect, won't it be perfectly boring? Will God raise pets and platypuses from the dead?
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Greg Koukl, noted apologist and radio host, uses this book to answer tough challenges to Christianity. In chapter 3 he tells how asking questions is an effective way to engage others in conversations.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: Street Smarts by Greg Koukl
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Michael Egnor, a neurosurgeon, has written a book arguing for the existence of the soul. In my first podcast of this book, I review his chapter dealing with those who are skeptics of near-death experiences.
Book: The Immortal Mind by Michael Egnor
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
D. James Kennedy explores the Bible's positive influence on science in chapter 7 of his book.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: What If the Bible Had Never Been Written? by D. James Kennedy
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
The encyclopedia covers the religious views of Harold Kushner, who advocated for a limited God, and Sigmund Freud, an influential atheist who argued that God is a childhood neurosis we never outgrew.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: Baker Encyclopedia of Christian Apologetics by Norman Geisler
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Chapter four in this booklet is crucial. It lets the Mormon scriptures speak for themselves on the issue of perfection being required to please God. It gives Christians a chance to share the good news of the true Gospel.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: The Ambassador's Guide to Mormonism by Brett Kunkle
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Hal Seed covers a crucial question in chapter four: How accurate is the Bible? He discusses both the Old and New Testament writings in his response.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: The Bible Questions by Hal Seed
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
James Emery White challenges Christians to develop their minds, to take seriously the larger world of the intellect.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: A Mind for God by James Emery White
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
In chapter two Rodney Stark confronts an incredible lie that says Europe was submerged in the "Dark Ages" from the fall of Rome until about the fifteenth century.
Book: The Victory of Reason by Rodney Stark
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Chapter 11 in this book discusses how it was Christianity that helped abolish slavery.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: Under the Influence (now called How Christianity Changed the World) by Alvin J. Schmidt
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Chapter 13 in this book gives many examples of lives changed through Jesus Christ.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: What If Jesus Had Never Been Born? by D. James Kennedy
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Lee Strobel investigates angels, demons, mystical dreams, near-death experiences, and other mysteries of the unseen world. This podcast covers his introduction to the book.
NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: Seeing the Supernatural by Lee Strobel
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
R. C. Sproul answers questions dealing with suffering. NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book.
Book: Now, That's a Good Question by R. C. Sproul
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This chapter, which comes from a book discussing the history of Mormonism, covers the background of racism in the LDS church. NOTE: I have done two previous podcasts on this book in case you'd like to hear them as well--9/27/21 and 12/10/22.
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Stand to Reason puts out useful booklets on various apologetics topics. This podcast covers reasons why atheists actually do not think critically. Their arguments are often filled with irrelevant distractions and logical fallacies, and the evidence doesn't deliver the conclusion they are after. This is my first podcast dealing with this book.
Book: The Ambassador's Guide to the New Atheists by Greg Koukl
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
The authors discuss basic traits of cults and their incorrect theological assumptions. NOTE--I discussed another topic from this book (reincarnation) on May 15, 2024 in case you'd like to hear it as well.
Book: The Popular Encyclopedia of Apologetics by Ed Hindson & Ergun Caner.
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Podcast: https://theapologistsbookshelf.podbean.com
We need to understand the challenges of artificial intelligence from a Christian perspective. Chapter six in this book looks at technological deities that are attempting to replace the God of the Bible.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This podcast completes a look at a chapter on our current trend to self-worship and the devastating consequences of such behavior.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This book tells how to stand for Christ in a culture that is spinning out of control. In this podcast he focuses on the big lie that is at the core of our problems--"Live by your own truth and you can be whatever you want to be."
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This podcast looks at three key questions for Christians put forth in this book--Have we lost the culture? What is the big story of the Bible (its worldview)? What is our salvation for?
Purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Titus Kennedy, a professional field archeologist, has investigated firsthand the discoveries connected to the birth of Jesus, his ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection. This podcast covers the first part of his book, which tells of the birth of Jesus, Bethlehem, and the Magi.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
As 2025 nears its end, I wanted to highlight books that impacted me this year.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Chapter 16 in this book explores supposed links between Christianity and pagan religions. Did Christianity borrow from earlier stories?
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Chapter 16 in this book covers Christianity and the public square--what the Bible says about government and political engagement, the supposed "wall of separation" between church and state, and the myth of state neutrality.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
For this podcast let's look at Seventh-day Adventism.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Here's another podcast dealing with basic teachings of the LDS church and how they contrast with orthodox Christianity. We already covered their beliefs about God and the Bible. This time let's look at their understanding of Jesus and the Trinity.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Hugh Ross, a prolific author and founder of Reasons to Believe, has just published this book. It discusses the famous story of Noah's flood to explore whether it's a myth or a misunderstood historical event. The chapter I cover here focuses on the feasibility of the ark.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
The author, a former Jehovah's Witness, tells how to effectively talk to a Jehovah's Witness, how to challenge his or her trust in the Watchtower Society, how this organization uses the cultish practice of mind control, and their erroneous "new light" argument.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This continues my look at the author's chapter dealing with the sexual revolution in our society.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This is the first of a two-part podcast covering a portion of a book which attempts to restore the meaning of our most important words. These two podcasts look at the chapter on the word "sex"--how it has been redefined and contrasting it with the true biblical definition.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Here's an important book that explores the movement sweeping through our society today, destroying the faith of many.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Brain scientist Dr. Dirckx examines three attempts to explain why human beings are more than machines.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Craig Blomberg, noted scholar, deals with an important question: Aren't the copies of the Bible hopelessly corrupt?
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This podcast completes a look at common informal logical fallacies.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Ken Samples, a careful thinker and teacher of logic, offers examples of various logical fallacies. It's so helpful to be able to spot faulty reasoning; it's a sign of critical thinking skills put to good use.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Here's a list of newer books I have enjoyed and that might make a good Christmas present for someone you know (or yourself!).
Here's my list of older classic apologetics books that would make excellent presents for Christmas. In the next podcast I will have a list of newer books that would be wonderful additions to your bookshelf.
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Jonathan Morrow deals with 11 major challenges to the Bible. I review his first chapter, which deals with the question of whether the Bible is anti-intellectual.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
The authors deal in this section with an important question--Is the Bible full of irresolvable contradictions?
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: the apologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
The title may be a bit confusing, but the two authors tackle an important issue--what was early Christianity like? Was it pluralistic? Were there multiple Christianities? In chapter 5 they consider how early a list of accepted books (canon) was created.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
We hear a lot today about critical race theory and social justice. This book offers a thorough examination of the origins, influence, and false assumptions of critical theory. For this podcast, I cover the theory's belief in the primacy of lived experience and its drawbacks.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Chapter 10 in this book focuses on faith. It deals with several important questions: Are faith and intellect mutually exclusive? Does Darwinism require faith too? Does believing in intelligent design require a small step of faith or a gigantic leap? Does belief in Darwinism require a small step of faith or a gigantic leap? For skeptics, is your lack of faith in God the result of objective analysis of the evidence or based on your fear of being accountable to Him?
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Chapter 12 covers the question of which books of the Bible people recognized as authoritative--what the term "canon" means, how books were determined to be from God, why the canon is now closed.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This is one of the most popular books dealing with apologetics. Chapter 11 covers the top ten reasons we can know the New Testament writers told the truth.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This is an excellent guide to understanding the Bible. For this podcast, I discuss the author's third chapter, which explores the epistles of the New Testament--their typical form, how to reconstruct the historical context, developing a working outline, how to think in terms of paragraphs, and what to do with problem passages.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Hugh Ross, astrophysicist and founder of Reasons to Believe, uses chapter three of this interesting book to consider whether there is life on other planets.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
The author is attempting to find out which religious text does a better job when it touches on scientific matters. He compares the Bible to other texts when it comes to the creation of the universe, the death of the universe, earth sciences, and medicine.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This book was written by experts in the field of artificial intelligence. For this podcast, I review their chapter on ways AI affects Christian values.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This is my first podcast for this book, which offers the biblical and historical evidence for Christ. Chapters 2 and 3 of the book examine the charge that the Gospels were anonymous.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Chapter five of this book looks at predictive prophecy, focusing especially on Isaiah 53. The author responds to those who don't believe it refers to Jesus.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Dan Story, a good friend of mine, has written a book that develops a Bible-based theology of nature and responds to anti-Christian environmentalists. In this podcast I cover chapters that look at God's love for nature, humanity's failure to watch over the environment, and God's plan for the restoration of nature.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
William Lane Craig, noted professor, author, and debater, has written a one-stop, how-to-defend-your-faith manual. I review his second chapter, which deals with a hugely important question: What difference does it make if God exists?
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This book, written by a non-Christian, looks at the radical new religions that are changing post-Christian America. In this podcast, I review her first chapter, which focuses on the religious landscape today with a special emphasis on three groups of people who blend traditional religious practices with personal spirituality.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Jim Wallace, one of my favorite apologists, discusses the value of circumstantial evidence when it comes to arguing for the existence of God and challenges each of us to be a two-decision Christian.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This book is probably the best defense for the resurrection of Jesus. Chapter 5 tackles the charge that the story of the resurrection is a legend or a fraud.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This is a terrific introduction to apologetics. Dan Story tells of the current culture war in his introduction to the book, and uses his first chapter to explain what apologetics is and why we need it.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This is a booklet put out by Reasons to Believe, a science-faith organization. The podcast for today details two chapters answering interesting questions: "Isn't Faith Incompatible with Reason?" and "Would the Discovery of ET Disprove Christianity and Must ET Exist?"
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
The author offers practical ideas on how to begin an effective interaction with Jehovah's Witnesses.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
John Lennox, noted apologist, speaker, and Oxford mathematician, gave a talk to the Veritas Forum in which he argues for the possibility of miracles. Here's the first part of his presentation.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Natasha Crain covers thirty conversations Christian parents needs to have with their children. In this podcast we look at two of these conversations--Did Jesus really perform miracles? Did ancient people believe in miracles because they were more gullible?
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Here's the first look at a recent book covering a lot of apologetics topics. For this podcast I look at a chapter discussing the hiddenness of God and a short article on Blaise Pascal.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me:theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Natasha Crain discusses answers to three questions: Why were books left out of the Bible? How do we know we can trust the Bible's authors? How do we know the Bible we have today says what the authors originally wrote?
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This book, by Hal Seed, is close in its title to J. P. Moreland's book, The God Question. Hal explores life's great questions about God, and this blog focuses on a key question--Do all roads lead to heaven?
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
J. P. Moreland finishes his opening chapters with a look at how we have ended up empty and unhappy people, thanks to scientific naturalism and postmodernism.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
J. P. Moreland is an excellent apologist who has written many fine books. His first chapter in this book deals with a cultural crisis we are in the middle of today--we are becoming more anxious and depressed in spite of our wealth.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This continues the coverage of chapter 17 (why people walk away from Christianity).
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Jeff Myers discusses a key question in chapter 17 of his book: If Christianity is true, why do people walk away? I will cover this in the next two podcasts.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This chapter of Jonathan Morrow's book covers what he calls "the tyranny of tolerance."
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
J.P. Moreland, prominent speaker, professor, and apologist, takes on key questions about God and suffering: Who's to blame for natural disasters and cancer? What about the suffering of children? Why doesn't God do more? Can I still trust God in the midst of suffering?
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This is the updated and expanded version of a classic apologetics book. In this podcast I finish the authors' intro--why apologetics has a bad name, why being a relational apologist is so important, and the story of a former French atheist who tells how to share our faith with non-Christians.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This completes my look at chapter 2 of Neil Shenvi's book, which considered the Gospels as reliable history.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Theoretical chemist and apologist Neil Shenvi argues in chapter 2 of his book that we can believe the Gospels provide a generally reliable portrait of the historical figure of Jesus of Nazareth.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
J. Warner Wallace, author of many fine apologetics books, has created his first graphic novel. It has been done well artistically, and its message is powerful.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
The authors in this chapter contend that the Middle Ages, contrary to some critics, were actually the incubator of some of our most cherished modern values and institutions. These values, they say, were found in the Christian church.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
In chapter 4 of his book, J. Warner Wallace covers a fascinating topic--prophecies that pointed to the coming of the Jewish Messiah and how Jesus fulfilled them all.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This concludes chapter two in the book, which argues things like math, music, and love make more sense if there's a God.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This is a good book to give to thoughtful unbelievers. In this podcast I cover a part of chapter two--why things like math, music, and love make more sense if there is a God.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
In Chapter 12 of this book, Bobby Conway gives practical steps to help people handle doubts about their Christian beliefs.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This is the second half of the author's discussion of mental illness, an issue of vital importance these days.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Jeremiah Johnston's book wrestles with important issues for Christians today. For this podcast (the first of two) I look at what he says about Christians and mental health issues.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Some of today's leading Christian thinkers offer in this book reasons why they are Christians. This podcast gives evidences that Jesus was the promised Messiah.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This book has 130 arguments for the Christian faith. This podcast goes over three essays by well-known apologists--Lee Strobel, Paul Copan, and Gary Habermas.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: the apologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Chapters one and two in this book deal with important questions--How do we know who wrote the Bible? Can we believe in Bible miracles?
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Can we still believe in miracles? Chapter four of this book addresses this question with some thoughts about scientism.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Randy Alcorn spends an entire chapter discussing Bart Ehrman and his best-selling book God's Problem. Ehrman denied his faith because he couldn't reconcile evil and suffering with God's goodness.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
In this book author Phil Fernandes tackles recent attacks on Jesus. I cover his chapter that claims earlier dates for New Testament books than what many believe to be the case.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Richard Simmons has a collection of essays that deal with what he calls the "fingerprints of an intelligent designer." In this podcast I cover his thoughts on morality and atheism as well as a look at Christian morality.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Dan Story, a good friend and an excellent apologist, writes in his second chapter of this book why atheism as a worldview simply doesn't work.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Hugh Ross, an astrophysicist as well as founder and former president of Reasons to Believe, wrote this book some time ago. In chapter 13 he argues for Biblical evidence of long creation days.
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I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Chapter three in this book discusses the rare quality we should all have--discernment, the ability to identify both good and bad ideas. The author gives several useful ways to help us and our kids be discerning.
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I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Podcast: https://theapologistsbookshelf.podbean.com/
Lee Strobel sat down with Jonathan Wells, holder of two doctorates, and asked him many questions about Darwin's idea of evolution. This chapter in his book is titled "Doubts About Darwinism."
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I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
In this national bestseller, Eric Metaxas discusses several ways atheism has been challenged by recent discoveries in science and archeology. In this podcast I cover three chapters that focus on scientific findings that point to God.
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I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Ken Samples, part of the team at Reasons to Believe, asks if Christianity is rational, relevant, and good. In this chapter he takes on the idea that God commanded genocide in the Old Testament.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Scott Klusendorf answers three objections to the pro-life stance--women will die from illegal abortions, you shouldn't force your view on others, and pro-lifers should broaden their focus by fighting other social ills.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Doug Groothuis has written a massive book dealing with evidences for the Christian faith. In this podcast I will cover a chapter in his book on religious pluralism and the fate of the unevangelized (those who have never heard of Jesus).
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I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
John Lennox discusses scientific reductionism and its limits, plus in another chapter I cover here, he explains the design we see in the universe.
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I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
This continues a look at competing sources of identity in our society as it relates to the rise of artificial intelligence. I have added a link here to the book in case you'd like to get a copy.
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This book tackles the key issue of how Christians can navigate the world of artificial intelligence. In this podcast and the following one, I cover one chapter focusing on the way many people today get their identity and how this is threatened by artificial intelligence.
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This podcast gives an overview of archeological discoveries that reveal the accuracy of Old Testament history.
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Physicist Michael Strauss discusses responses of atheists to recent scientific findings: the origin of the universe, its fine-tuning, and the idea that the earth is rare after all.
Michael Strauss
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Mark D. Roberts tackles a key question about Christianity: Do miracles undermine the reliability of the gospels?
This short book does a nice job of exploring the promises and pitfalls of A.I. In this podcast I look at his discussion of the power and possibilities of A.I.
I finish discussing Natasha Crain's chapter on Christian nationalism.
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Natasha Crain gives Christians ways to navigate a hostile culture. These two podcasts cover Christian nationalism.
Natasha Crain, When Culture Hates You
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In the seventh chapter of his book, Randy Alcorn answers the question of what life is like in the present heaven. Christians need to clearly explain the concept of heaven because there are so many misunderstandings about it.
Randy Alcorn, Heaven
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In chapter one Tim Keller compares various ways cultures train its members for grief, pain, and loss. The sad thing is that our own contemporary, secular Western culture is one of the weakest and worst in history at doing so.
Tim Keller, Walking With God Through Pain and Suffering
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Natasha Crain answers two interesting questions about the existence of God in chapters 5 and 6: What is the difference between God and the Flying Spaghetti Monster? How much evidence do we need to be confident God exists?
Natasha Crain, Talking With Your Kids About God
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Chapter three of this book deals with a powerful argument for the existence of God--design throughout the universe and within our bodies.
This book, by Sean McDowell and Jonathan Morrow, explores many questions raised by the new atheists. This podcast covers one key question: Is hell a divine torture chamber?
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This chapter from Natasha Crain's book looks at deconversion stories and offers ways for us to confront our doubts.
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This is a continuation of chapter 2 in Justin Brierley's book.
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Continuing through Justin Brierley's stimulating book, I focus on chapter 2, which talks of the grand story that we all used to live by and how it changed.
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In chapter 4 McDowell and Sean McDowell discuss how an anything goes culture is influencing our children's perception of the authority of the Bible, their concept of what is virtuous, their ideas of honor and courage, and even their understanding of justice.purchase book here
Chapter three of Jim Wallace's book describes the importance of friends in human flourishing and offers wise counsel in choosing friends.
J. Warner Wallace, The Truth in True Crime
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James Emery White, one of my favorite authors, tells us in chapters 3 and 4 of his book the importance of books and education.
In the first chapter of his book, Rod Dreher talks of the new soft totalitarianism that exists today.
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I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
In the first two chapters to his book, Os Guinness discusses troubling facts about evil and suffering in the modern world, seven basic questions to explore when thinking about this issue, and the three everyday sources of evil and suffering.
This is one book every Christian needs to have on his/her bookshelf. I cover the first two chapters, in which Greg Koukl discusses how to be an effective witness for Christ and the value of good arguments.
Greg Koukl, Tactics
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This book by Charlie Campbell has concise answers to the top fifty objections people have about Christianity. This podcast covers six of those challenges with his responses.
In this section of her book, Nancy Pearcey tells how we can identify reductionism, which is a substitute idol for those who have rejected Christianity.
Josh McDowell, a well-known apologist, wrote this book to show how a popular cultural movement threatens much that we believe. This podcast covers his first two chapters.
Mark Mittelberg used a poll to find out what questions Christians most fear being asked. This podcast covers the first question: "Why do you think God exists?"
Justin Brierley, host of a popular podcast that discusses religious issues, has written a book which discusses why secular thinkers are considering Christianity again. My podcast covers his first chapter, in which he explains the rise and fall of the New Atheism.
My favorite apologist and personal friend, J. warner Wallace, has a wonderful book that I am going through. This podcast explores his second chapter, which talks of good and bad ways we can seek identity.
In chapters 3 and 4 Greg Koukl explains the three kinds of relativism and critiques the idea that each society has its own unique set of moral values.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Chapter 11 of this book asks the question of whether the disciples of Jesus died as martyrs.
J. Warner Wallace, one of my favorite apologists, has written a book that explores fifteen surprising rules for life and shows how Christianity helps us flourish as individuals.
Phil Fernandes deals with a question we often hear these days: Is Christianity intolerant?
Lee Strobel interviews noted New Testament scholar Craig Blomberg to see if the biographies of Jesus hold up to scrutiny.
Designed for people who believe there is a God and who are seeking spiritual truths, Tim Keller's book was a huge bestseller. Chapter three challenges the idea that Christianity is a straightjacket because it appears to be culturally narrow.
purchase book here
I’m Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith.
Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you.
Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com
Ron Rhodes has written an excellent book that lays out essential information for people to use when interacting with a Jehovah's Witness. Chapter 4 explains why Jesus is actually God, not a created being as taught by the Watchtower Society.
Justin Brierley has been a host of a show that has Christians and skeptics airing arguments for and against the Christian faith. In this chapter from his book, Justin explains why God makes sense of human value.
Western culture divided in the past into two streams--a Judeo-Christian outlook and an atheist outlook. This podcast covers the atheist side as it subdivided into two streams--one characterized as "modern" and the other as "postmodern."
The Jesus Seminar, made up of very liberal people, often attacked evangelical beliefs about Christianity. This book refutes their challenges. Today I explore the third chapter of the book, which discusses what we can learn about the words of Jesus as recorded in the New Testament.
This is a continuation of the author's responses to objections directed at Christianity.
J. Warner Wallace, one of my favorite speakers and authors, discusses the origin of life and free will in two chapters of his book.
Here's a new book (2024) that is a lawyer's look at God and religion. In this podcast I go over the author's first chapter. There he discusses the startling idea that the universe had a beginning, an idea that disturbed many scientists.
This podcast completes chapter 8 in Lee Strobel's book. It covers Biblical obstacles to the idea that evil individuals are annihilated rather than punished eternally in hell.
This podcast continues the author's discussion of the cultural reasons we have so much apathy when it comes to spiritual matters.
In this chapter Dan Kimball explains why Christians follow some but not all commands found in the Old Testament.
For this podcast I dealt with how Gleason Archer answered the question, "How can Genesis 1 be reconciled with the immense periods of time indicated by fossil strata?"
Here's a wonderful book by James Rochford that shows the Christian faith is not simply a blind leap in the dark. This podcast covers his opening chapter dealing with a number of aspects of life that would crumble if God were not around to support them.
Lee Strobel entitles this chapter "Escape from Hell." He looks at alternatives to the traditional view of hell--eternal torment.
Tim Keller, one of my favorite authors, wrote this book to focus on the resurrection and Easter. I cover his opening chapter dealing with Christianity as a historical and reasonable faith.
Kyle Beshears tells us how to deal with non-Christians who simply don't care about spiritual matters. This podcast goes over his introduction, in which he explains the cultural conditions that lead to apathy among non-believers.
William Fay covers thirty-six objections to Christianity that he has heard and includes useful answers. In this podcast I look at seven of them.
In his introduction to this collection of essays, Sean McDowell says we need a new approach to apologetics. The first chapter suggests four important questions we can ask when talking to someone whose beliefs are different from our own.
This is a continuation of the previous podcast, which deals with the claim that religion is simply based on faith while secularism is based on evidence. Tim Keller shows this is a false view.
Tim Keller, respected author and teacher, wrote this book for people who aren't sure about the existence of God. Chapter two explores answers to an often-expressed question: Isn't religion based on faith and secularism on evidence? This podcast covers a portion of his answer.
This book surveys several important worldviews to show the superiority of Christianity. In this podcast we go over the chapter on ethics and how various worldviews deal with the concept of right and wrong.
Greg Koukl's book attempts to clarify Christianity for a new generation. Chapter 18, titled "The Rescue," explains why Jesus came to earth. It wasn't for social justice.
Here's a new book dealing with the terrible war between Hamas and Israel that continues to rage in the Middle East. The author, Jeff Myers of Summit Ministries, tells in chapter 4 the Biblical aspects of Israel and the Jewish people.
This book by Paul Gould attempts to show that Christianity holds the most satisfying answers to life's biggest questions. I cover two chapters that focus on how life got started and the origin of species.
This book is written by several former Mormons who have great insights into effective ways of communicating the true message of Christianity to LDS members. This podcast covers an introduction to the book.
The author, a former ABC news science correspondent and theoretical physicist, tackles a big question here. You won't be surprised to find out his answer is "Yes."
Does God have three wills for us--sovereign, moral, and individual? Most Christians say yes to all three, but Garry Friesen argues that Scripture doesn't teach that God has an individual will for each of us that we must discover.
Douglas Groothuis, a terrific thinker, writer, and teacher, has a good book that deals with incendiary cultural topics. In this podcast, I go over his preface and introduction, which explores critical race theory.
David Snoke looks at ways people have interpreted Genesis and comes to the conclusion that the earth and the universe are ancient. This podcast deals with his reasons why he thinks Noah's flood was a localized event rather than a world-wide event.
This massive book has been a surprise best-seller. Chapter 23 explores the problem of natural evil, showing the shortcomings of theistic evolution to explain this.
James Emery White has written an interesting book aimed at answering questions people might have about Christianity. Chapter 1 discusses reasons for believing in the existence of God.
This book, which has garnered a lot of attention, deals with how we should live in a post-Christian America. Aaron Renn says we need to focus on three key domains of our evangelical life: personal, institutional, and missional. This podcast looks at the first of these three areas.
Chuck Colson says in this book that salvation is a free gift--but it costs everything. He then tells the story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer and relates this to all of us.
D. A. Carson, author of many books, offers here a landmark critique of tolerance in contemporary Western culture. The chapter I cover today looks at the old and the new definitions of tolerance
J. P. Moreland, a wonderful writer and thinker, deals here with the world's idea of happiness and how empty it leaves people.
This book, by Clay Jones, deals with the human fear of death and what we can do about it. I'm looking this time at chapter 5, which discusses various unsuccessful secular attempts to give us a sense of transcendence over death.
God is doing amazing things in the Muslim world, bringing people to faith in Jesus through dreams and visions. I discuss a few of these and cover what the author says about interacting with Muslims.
I'm covering several more important questions Hank Hanegraaff answers in this book: How can the eternal Son of God be "the firstborn over all creation"? What distinguishes Christianity from other religions? Don't all religions lead to God? What happens to a person who never heard of Jesus? What is a cult? Are Jehovah's Witnesses Christians?
Chuck Colson and Nancy Pearcey challenge all of us to understand biblical faith as an entire worldview. In this podcast I discuss what a worldview is and what the current culture war involves.
This chapter concludes with reasons to believe the Bible is of divine origin and the problem of supposed contradictions.
This is one of my favorite Lee Strobel books, in which he takes on hard questions about Christianity. I'm doing a two-part podcast on a chapter that asks if God is worthy of worship if he kills innocent children as seen in several Old Testament passages.
Philip Yancey's book has been a best-seller and an award winner. I cover his sixth chapter, where he struggles with a key question: Does personal suffering come packaged with a clear explanation from God?
This booklet by Stand to Reason is one in a series that explores important aspects of our culture today. Greg Koukl takes on a modern saying: "Jesus is my savior and the only way for me, but I can't say He is the way for others."
Hugh Ross, an astrophysicist and proponent of an ancient earth, spends one chapter showing the problems with the young-earth position when it comes to the rate of evolution.
Chapter 15 in this book offers good advice on issues a Christian should avoid or approach with caution when interacting with Muslims.
This podcast covers a chapter that discusses apocryphal books of both the Old and New Testaments--their contents and why they were rejected.
Craig Blomberg, noted professor and author, spends one important chapter on the issue of New Testament miracles.
In this podcast, I cover two important questions Natasha Crain deals with--Is Jesus the Jewish Messiah? Is Jesus God?
Neil Shenvi's book explores the evidence for Christianity. In chapter 10 he sums up his entire book and discusses Christianity's answers to three key questions of any worldview--What does it explain? Is it coherent? Is it livable?
This book has been updated for the 21st century. Chapter 3 gives useful knowledge of the psychological factors involved in the formation and growth of non-Christian cults.
This is an important book that looks at the rise of critical theories like Critical Race Theory as well as social justice ideology. It focuses on implications for the Christian church and society. This podcast covers part of the book's chapter on problems with critical theory and how its central ideas conflict with evangelical theology.
This book is a guide for Christians to understand the ideas and forces shaping our times. It's a worldview classic. I look at the chapter that discusses secularism--its history, its influence, and its answers to to life's ultimate questions.
Josh McDowell calls this book an "indispensable reference work. I discuss their take on reincarnation, a concept that has grown in popularity in recent years.
Stand to Reason, started and led by Greg Koukl, is a wonderful apologetics organization. This is one of their outstanding booklets created to help Christians deal with several challenges to their faith. In this podcast, I cover the section which considers the Christian and Mormon beliefs about God.
Josh McDowell, author of this book, gives evidence for the historical Jesus. In the chapter I cover in this podcast, he asks if Jesus thought of himself as the Messiah and Son of God and what these terms meant.
Here's an important book that discusses the looming spiritual crisis of artificial intelligence. I cover his fourth chapter--how we have lost the sense of God and transcendent values. The results have been terrible for us and our society.
A major issue these days is transgenderism. Andrew Walker's book is an invaluable introduction to a complex, controversial, and often painful subject. I cover part of one chapter that discusses the fall in Eden and the tragic results not only around us but within us.
Ron Rhodes does an excellent job in this book. I am looking today at his intro and first chapter, which covers Mormonism today and where it came from.
This will be the last podcast covering Mark Mittelberg's book. I discuss the last five barriers to a confident faith in Christianity.
This will be the next-to-last podcast covering Mark Mittelberg's book. In this section he looks at five barriers to faith and how to overcome them.
Continuing my look at Mark Mittelberg's book, I cover the remainder of the arrows he says point to the truth of Christianity--Jesus' life and resurrection, the emergence of the church, the changed lives of early skeptics, the deaths of the disciples, the changed minds of modern skeptics, and the testimonies of modern believers.
Mark Mittelberg completes his examination of the Bible as evidence of the truth of Christianity.
Mark Mittelberg lays out twenty arrows that he believes point to the truth of Christianity. In this podcast we look at six of these arrows dealing with the universe, DNA, the sense of morality we all share, and the Bible.
In chapter 9 Mark Mittelberg reviews the six faith paths that people have chosen in their pursuit of spiritual truths. In addition, he starts in on twelve arrows he believes point to the truth of Christianity. I discuss the first of these--design in the universe.
Mark Mittelberg continues his examination of various faith paths people take in their search for God. This chapter deals with the Christian view, which he calls the evidential faith path.
Continuing through Mark Mittelberg's book, I cover chapters that explore two popular faith paths people follow--intuitive (truth is what you feel in your heart) and mystical (truth is what you think God told you).
I'm continuing my podcasts covering one book by Mark Mittelberg. This time I cover two chapters that explore faith paths he calls "traditional" and "authoritarian."
I'm continuing an in-depth look at Mark Mittelberg's book. In this podcast I review a chapter that explores one popular worldview today--relativism ("Truth is whatever works for you.").
Mark Mittelberg has a wonderful book that seeks to build a firm foundation for our beliefs about life and God. I used this book in our church apologetics class, so I'd like to go through it in the next few podcasts. Today I will focus on his intro and chapter one, in which he defines faith and explains who has it.
This book is part of the Politically Incorrect Guide series, which I highly recommend. This podcast covers the first chapter, in which the author talks about the attacks on the Bible, especially those by the "New Atheists." Is religion really the greatest threat to world peace as they believe?
Does Christianity really offer anything which is superior to other religions? Is Jesus superior to other religious or philosophical leaders? Norm Geisler answers these questions in one section of his book.
This book asks "What's right with this world, and how did it get that way?" For this podcast, I look at the chapter dealing with Christianity's contribution to helping the poor.
This book, by D. James Kennedy, has various chapters exploring ways the Bible has influenced the Western world. I'm an English major who loves literature, so I went to the chapter that illustrates the Bible's impact on Dante, Shakespeare, Milton, Bunyan, Dostoevsky, and many others.
Everything J. P. Moreland writes is wonderful, and this book is no exception. In a section of the book called "How to Develop a Mature Christian Mind," he discusses seven traits of the empty self, a growing problem in America that threatens the life of the mind.
This book, written by Norm Geisler, offers valuable information and advice to a wide audience. In this podcast I go over the section dealing with the dating of the book of Daniel. Does the book contain real predictive prophecy, or was it written after the events it describes?
This book by Alvin Schmidt tells of all the ways Christianity transformed civilization for the better. In chapter 2 he explains how infanticide, the abandonment of infants, abortion, gladiatorial shows, human sacrifices, and suicide were all challenged by Christianity.
J. Warner Wallace, a former cold-case detective who has written a series of powerful apologetics books, investigates the claims of the gospels here. I review his chapter that answers the question, "Were the gospels corroborated?" In other words, are the claims of the gospel writers backed up by internal and external evidence of their truthfulness?
Norm Geisler, author of so many wonderful books, wrote this one to deal with Bible difficulties. This podcast looks at concerns people have had with the order of temptations in Matthew and Luke, whether Jesus taught the Old Testament asked people to hate their enemies, the story of the centurion who came to Jesus, why Jesus called himself the Son of Man, and several other concerns in the book of Matthew.
Frank Turek is the author of this book, which shows how many atheistic arguments, instead of disproving God, reveal that He actually exists. In this podcast I go over his introduction to the book.
This book, by noted scholar and author Norm Geisler, is a handbook on cultic misinterpretations of Bible passages. This podcast answers the question, "What is a cult?" He covers several characteristics of cults and explores the dangers of cults.
James Emery White, noted author and pastor, says in this book that Christians face cultural challenges because of four major ideas.
Nancy Pearcey has written another thought-provoking book. This one deals with hard questions about life and sexuality. This podcast looks at her chapter on how we define personhood. Today our society has defined it in an arbitrary way that threatens human dignity.
Alvin Schmidt, the author of The Great Divide, does a great job explaining the differences between Islam and Christianity. This podcast focuses on the issue of slavery as dealt with in both religions.
Natasha Crain is a wonderful writer and thinker. In this podcast I talk about her answers to two questions: If Christianity is true, why are there so many denominations? Is Christianity responsible for millions of deaths in history?
Fuz Rana, president of Reasons to Believe, wrote this book with the founder of RTB, Hugh Ross. I cover chapters 4 and 5, which discuss the fossil and archeological record of the appearance of the first humans with an emphasis on the sudden appearance of culture and technology.
Tim Keller has written some of the best books I've ever read. This book focuses on the empty promises of money, sex, and power that are so prevalent in our society. This podcast covers his introduction to the book, where he talk about idols we worship today.
We are dealing with Critical Race Theory, Neo-Marxism, and postmodernism, which have combined into a huge threat to the Judeo-Christian culture of the West. I'm covering their two opening chapters that talk about distorted stories we have been told about our country and how the assault on Western civilization began.
Chuck Colson, noted author and founder of Prison Fellowship, says this is his "legacy" book, which grapples with the important concept of worldview. This podcast covers the opening of his book, dealing with the first question any worldview has to answer--"How did the universe begin?"
Harry Blamires asks an important question in his book--How should a Christian think? This podcast covers his charge that Christians have surrendered to secularism.
This book covers so much useful information about the Watchtower organization. In this podcast I review three areas--the Watchtower organization (is it really God's organization?), the gospel as preached by Jehovah's Witnesses, and their secretive governing body.
Stand to Reason (str.org), Greg Koukl's organization puts out amazing material for all people. This guide discusses the Mormon religion. I'm focusing on two questions raised in the booklet--Are Mormons Christians? Where do we start?
Although it's a small book, this introduction to Islam does an excellent job. I'm using this podcast to look at chapter tow, where the author examines Islamic beliefs and practices.
James Emery White is one of my favorite authors. In this book, he challenges Christians to make our lives matter during these serious times. This podcast covers his introduction and first chapter, in which he urges us to make a difference, to change the world. He explains how we got to our present situation with a quick historical tour--the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, the Enlightenment, the French Revolution.
Fazale Rana's book tells how chemistry reveals the Creator's artistry inside the cell. This podcast covers the book's final chapter, which summarizes the features of life's chemical systems that appear exquisitely designed.
This podcast finishes a discussion of hell as covered in Moreland and Habermas' book dealing with life after death.
In this podcast and the following one, I want to cover an important theological concept in Moreland's and Habermas' book--the idea of hell. It makes so many people uncomfortable. What does the Bible really say about it?
Rodney Stark, noted historian, looks at the Crusades in an attempt to clear the air of misunderstandings and outright lies. In chapter 4 he states that the Crusades were not unprovoked. Muslims attacked pilgrims and destroyed holy Christian sites.
Norm Geisler and Frank Turek, authors of this important book, start with the concept of truth--What is truth? What is a self-defeating statement in regards to truth? Can truth be known?
Lee Strobel's recent book has an excellent chapter in which he interviews Doug Groothuis concerning the popular idea of reincarnation.
Ray Kurzweil, the greatest prophet of Artificial Intelligence, spoke at a recent conference. I wanted to share this article because AI is becoming so important these days.
This handbook covers so many interesting things about the Bible. In this podcast I look at different tools and methods of biblical criticism, ways to analyze the texts of the Bible.
Franklin Graham calls this book a great help for carrying out the Great Commission. This podcast covers the chapter on Buddhism.
With more than one million copies in print, Paul Little's book Know Why You Believe has become a classic in apologetics material. In this podcast I cover chapter 8, which asks if miracles are possible.
Bill McKeever and Eric Johnson look at how the Mormons see the Bible in chapter 7 of their book. Many of the church's leaders have cast doubt on the certainty of the Bible. The authors challenge this view.
This chapter, taken from one of a number of interesting books in a series, looks at evolution and why the theory has so many problems with it.
Rebecca McLaughlin covers five contemporary claims that challenge Christianity. In this podcast I go through one of her chapters that examines the slogan "Women's Rights Are Human Rights."
Dan Story, a good friend and excellent writer, gives reliable answers in this book for a new generation of seekers and skeptics. I cover his first chapter, entitled "Why Does God Want Our Defense?" He tells of the advantages of apologetics.
Natasha Crain has an important chapter in her book than deals with a tough question for many Christians: How Can God Be Three Persons in One? She does a wonderful job dealing with this topic.
Gary Habermas, a solid researcher, professor and author, has spent a great deal of time reading what other historians say about the events surrounding the resurrection of Jesus. In this podcast I deal with the minimal facts he says almost all historians agree on.
Ron Rhodes, researcher, author, and teacher, has written a book that provides a great resource for Christians. I discuss chapter 5, which looks at three major movements in the mind sciences religious concept--Christian Science, the United Church of Religious Science, and the Unity School of Christianity. I focus especially on Christian Science since it's the best known of the three.
Greg Koukl, a wonderful apologist, has written a short but powerful book that contains thirteen essays for Christian thinkers. This podcast goes through his second chapter, which deals with the charge that God is just a crutch for many people.
Sharon Dirckx deals with an important question in chapter 5--Is free will an illusion? If we are just our brains, are we really free in any meaningful sense?
The author, Wilbur Lingle, discusses twelve claims made by Jehovah's Witnesses that attempt to prove they are God's organization. He effectively refutes these. I cover several of the claims and refutations in this podcast.
Greg Koukl, author of this new book, is a terrific apologist with his clear-thinking defense of Christianity. I go over his first two chapters, which explains the purpose of the book and focuses on a key principle he develops: before there can be any harvest, there has to be a season of gardening.
Noted scholar Craig Blomberg deals with current questions about the Bible. In this podcast I review his section on the canon of the Old Testament--are these the books that were accepted by all Jews?
The authors discuss an important question: What if the New Testament books were copied so poorly that we can't possibly recover the original text? In other words, is what we have now what they wrote then?
Randy Alcorn in chapter 5 of his book covers some interesting topics about heaven--the temporary nature of it, the present and future heavens, judgments of faith and works, the location of the present heaven. This is a book I highly recommend.
Randy Alcorn, author of this million-selling book, explores the Christian understanding of heaven. In this podcast, I look at his opening chapters, which conclude we have an unbiblical view of heaven and claim we can know much more about the topic than we think.
Rebecca McLaughlin's book tackles twelve hard questions directed to Christianity. In this podcast I cover her first chapter, which deals with a crucial question: Aren't we better off without religion?
Mark Mittelberg tells how to build a firm foundation for our beliefs. I cover Lee Strobel's foreword to the book and Mittelberg's first chapter, which defines faith and explains that we all live by some form of it.
Nancy Pearcey, author of so many thought-provoking books, uses this book to answer hard questions about life and sexuality. I look at her introduction and first chapter, in which she discusses the two-story split of facts and values as well as the rise and decline of the human body.
This book investigates the world's leading religions and cults. It looks at how the beliefs got started, what they teach, and how they differ from biblical Christianity. In this podcast I deal with a chapter on the mind sciences--Christian Science, Unity School of Christianity, and United Church of Religious Science. My focus is on the best-known one, Christian Science.
Wallace Henley takes on an important question: Will we let artificial intelligence eclipse the true God? I cover chapter 3 that discusses the effects on people who believe God is the true transcendent source of all things.
This is the second half of my discussion of Frank Turek's list of six reasons to oppose same-sex marriage.
Frank Turek, a leading apologist, has updated this book, which now covers same-sex marriage and transgenderism. In this and the next podcast, I want to go over Frank's six-point case against same-sex marriage.
Subtitled "Your Toughest Questions Answered, this book by Josh McDowell and his son Sean McDowell provide solid answers to help people grow in their faith. I look at three questions here--Is it wrong to have doubts about God? What is the moral law argument for God's existence? If God caused everything, then who or what caused God?
Lee Strobel, in one of his many "The Case for" books, interviews Michael Behe, who argues that the complexity of molecular machines could not have come about by accident.
Chapter 2 of this book is useful for those who wish to get started in apologetics, whether a mama bear or a man. Hillary Short explains what an apologist is (and isn't) as well as how to get started explaining the truth of Christianity to others.
Noted astrophysicist Hugh Ross explains why our earth is not the result of mere accident. The section I cover deals with the creation of the moon and the fact that earth inhabits not one but seven habitable zones required for life to exist.
I really appreciate Natasha Crain, whose books help parents raise good, solid Christian kids. This book covers 30 conversations that every parent needs to have. I'm discussing one key question she raises: Is Jesus a myth?
Norm Geisler tackles four major questions about the Bible in this book--Who wrote it? Which books belong in it? Has it been accurately preserved? Has it been adequately translated? I look at a chapter that explores evidences for the inspiration of the Bible. In other words, what is the evidence that the Bible has divine authority?
Hank Hanegraaff covers a topic that makes many Christians uncomfortable--the doctrine of hell.
In chapter 20 R. C. Sproul covers important questions: Why do Christians think they know how other people should live? Should Christians impose their ethics upon non-Christians? How can we as Christians ascertain when God's Word was applicable to a certain culture and therefore may not be applicable to us today? How do we uphold Christian ethics without being judgmental?
This book challenges the popular "isms" that modern culture has worshiped. In this chapter Vince Vitale takes on the popular idea of hedonism, the idea that life is all about our happiness.
The revised version of a popular book covers so much good information about various religious groups. I'm looking at chapter 18, which tells how Christian Science, Jehovah's Witnesses, and Mormonism view Jesus.
Hal Seed does a good job answering many questions people have about the Bible. In chapter 3 he deals with a key question--who decided what went into the Bible?
Gary Habermas, probably the leading authority on the resurrection of Jesus, has a chapter in this book in which he concentrates on two components in a historical case for the resurrection of Jesus Christ. First, how do we move from the certainty that the disciples believed that they had seen appearances of Jesus to their really seeing Jesus? Secondly, what makes the transformations of Jesus' disciples, even to the point of being willing to die for their faith, so unique?
Hank Hanegraaff, the "Bible Answer Man," discusses ways Christianity is different from other religions, whether all religions lead to God, what happens to a person who has never heard of Jesus, and other important issues related to religions and cults.
Phil Fernandes has written a powerful response to two atheists--Christopher Hitchens and Richard Dawkins. In chapter 14 he looks at the prophetic insights of the German atheist Friedrich Nietzsche as well as two well-known Christian thinkers--C. S. Lewis and Francis Schaeffer. He shows that the nineteenth century's death of God has led to horrible consequences in the twentieth century.
Greg Koukl, one of my favorite authors and speakers, has written a collection of essays dealing with many apologetics issues. I look at his first chapter, in which he explains that Christian faith is not a leap in the dark. It's based on evidence.
The author, Sharon Dirckx, seeks to answer an important question that people ask today with the rise of artificial intelligence: Are we just machines?
I'm covering more archeological discoveries that shed light on the veracity of the Old Testament.
As the title indicates, this book seeks to dispel myths that have been created to tarnish Christianity. In this podcast I cover a chapter which deals with witches and witchcraft.
Let's take a look at the New World Translation of the Bible used by the Jehovah's Witness organization. It has a lot of problems.
In his chapter "Hope for a Broken World," author Richard Simmons talks about what is unique about Christianity, and in a short chapter called "A Different Perspective on Pain and Suffering" he deals with the complaint that there can't be a good God with all the evil in the world.
John Lennox, one of my favorite apologists, discusses human beings as special creations by God. He deals with the issues of theistic evolution, the age of the earth, and death before the Fall.
I'm focusing this time on the third chapter, which covers one of my favorite mysteries--the image on the Shroud of Turin. Is it the burial cloth of Jesus? The author analyzes all the possible causes for the image on the Shroud and shows how the man-made explanations fail.
J. P. Moreland and Gary Habermas, two noted scholars and authors, discuss the evidence for life after death. I look at their fascinating information on near-death experiences and what they tell us.
Carroll and Shiflett create effective arguments against anti-religious bigotry. In this podcast I cover chapter 4, which tackles the issue of whether Christianity is to blame for all the wars of the world. Think of the Crusades, the barbarian hordes, Native Americans,, the Inquisition, . . .
Tim Keller, who recently died, has written so many powerful books. In this one he discusses what gives the Christian hope in the face of death. Thank you, Tim, for all you did to build up Christians.
Randy Alcorn, a best-selling author, examines six worldviews that respond to the problem of evil and suffering. He's convinced the Christian answer beats that of any other worldview.
In chapter 4 of this book, Natasha Crain discusses how we as Christians can regain a supernatural worldview in the face of a culture that buys into naturalism (the belief that the natural world is all that exists).
This book, subtitled "A User-Friendly Approach," covers a lot of material in a relaxed manner. I am discussing chapter 7, which looks at three possible explanations for how everything started, the idea of a prebiotic soup, the fossil record, the Cambrian explosion, and irreducible complexity.
This updated version of a popular book covers so much good information about Christianity. This time I cover chapter 13, which examines the deaths of the disciples. Do we know what happened to them? Did any of them renounce their faith when faced with death?
Here's a second look at Mike Strauss' book dealing with Genesis and creation. My first podcast on this book was done on December 30, 2021 in case you'd like to hear it. This time I cover a chapter in which Mike examines the issue of the creation "days"--was it all done in 24-hour periods?
I am continuing with a second podcast on The God Conversation, which challenges Christians to engage others using stories and illustrations to explain our faith. Chapter 2 deals with the difficult issue of a good God and the existence of pain and suffering.
J. P. Moreland, a great author and Christian thinker, has a book that suggests ways we can use stories and illustrations to explain our Christian faith. In this podcast, I cover his opening chapters that explain the value of using examples and illustrations to share our beliefs with others.
John Lennox, a great thinker and apologist, takes a look at artificial intelligence in chapters 4 and 5 in his book--its promises and its dangers. This is important as we face a future in which we will be interacting with AI in many ways.
Too many Christians drift away from their Christian faith when going to college. This book is so important for the advice it gives students on how to stay faithful to Christ during those years. Chapter 2 discusses the importance of cultivating a Christian worldview.
Erwin Lutzer's book is so important these days with all the ludicrous ideas brought out in our society. This podcast covers the second half of chapter 4, in which he challenges the terrible ideas of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) that many are pushing today.
Erwin Lutzer has written a book to challenge Christians to stand for Christ in a collapsing culture. I'm covering chapter 4, which examines the the destructive influence of diversity/equity/inclusion that our society is pushing so hard on all of us. This podcast will discuss only the first half of the chapter since I don't want to go over the material too quickly. The next podcast will cover the second half of this important chapter.
Since this is such a definitive resource book, I wanted to continue with my last podcast exploring Chapter 16, "Is God a Mean Bully?" This time we will go over the challenge that the Bible endorses slavery and that the Bible is oppressive to women.
This book is big enough and the chapter is important enough that I want to spend the next two podcasts covering Chapter 16, which asks "Is God a Mean Bully?" In this podcast I discuss the first half of the chapter that deals with charges of genocide in the Old Testament and the treatment of homosexuality in the Bible.
Titus Kennedy, a professional field archeologist, presents 101 objects that provide powerful evidence for the historical reliability of the Bible. In this podcast, I cover evidence of the conquest of Canaan by Joshua, the time of the judges, the united kingdom under David and Solomon, and the divided kingdoms that followed.
Three professors tackle skeptical challenges to the Bible. In chapter five they deal with several claims--the gospels weren't written by Jesus' companions, the first disciples were illiterate and couldn't have written the books attributed to them, many New Testament books are forgeries, other writings have a valid claim to be included in the New Testament.
Os Guinness, the well-respected author and thinker, wrestles with the problem of evil in this book. In chapter 9 he covers what Solzhenitsyn has called "the tilt of freedom toward evil." The chapter discusses three grand erosions of traditional barriers to evil that Americans have allowed to happen in the last generation.
This book does a good job covering many issues connected with Jehovah's Witnesses. In this podcast we look at the failed prophecies of this organization as well as the lives of its two early leaders--Charles Russell and Judge Rutherford.
One chapter in this useful book is titled "Truth, Tolerance, and Relativism." These are huge issues we as Christians need to understand and deal with when we interact with others. The chapter also tells of two myths we need to expose, and it has a great interview with Craig Hazen, professor of comparative religion and Christian apologetics at Biola University.
J. P. Moreland shows the problems associated with scientism, the belief that only the hard sciences have the intellectual authority to give us knowledge of reality. For this podcast I look at chapters 4 and 5 in the book, which explain how scientism is self-refuting and is actually the enemy of science.
In this helpful book, the authors Eric Johnson and Sean McDowell discuss practical strategies for getting a conversation started with our Mormon friends. Chapter 2 focuses on the danger of disillusioned Mormons embracing atheism rather than evangelical Christianity. They tell how to have an evidence-based approach to argue for the existence of God.
In chapter 6 of this book, the author discusses the early chapters of Genesis with special emphasis on evolution, the flood story, and the creation of people with the image of God.
Chapter 5 tells how to read Old Testament stories and how not to read them. Since we love so many of these accounts, it's important that we approach them in a useful way.
Nancy Pearcey, one of Christianity's best thinkers, tells how we can use five principles to make sense of any worldview and then come up with a compelling positive case for Christianity. In this section of her book, she explains how to identify idols that try to replace God.
Ken Samples tackles a current complaint about the Bible--Why doesn't it categorically condemn slavery? He shows how different slavery was in the Old Testament compared to the slavery we read about in the pre-Civil War American South.
Mark Roberts explains why oral tradition, which is the way the early stories of Jesus circulated, was a reliable method of communication.
One challenge to Christianity is aimed at miracles found in the Bible. Is the Bible unscientific? Are miracles possible, or did David Hume destroy the possibility of their existence? How has science renewed arguments for the existence of God? How should we think about the opening chapters of Genesis?
This book, edited by Hillary Morgan Ferrer, guides parents in empowering their kids to challenge cultural lies. I cover the first chapter, in which the authors tell why apologetics is important, how to get people excited about apologetics, the youth exodus from Christianity, myths about this exodus, and what concerned parents can do about it.
Critics often ask why we should trust the Bible since it has so many contradictions and mistakes. Mark Mittelberg deals with supposed contradictions and tackles eight common objections to the Bible.
J. Warner Wallace's book looks at the huge impact Jesus has had on civilization. For this podcast I cover chapter 6, which focuses on his influence on books and movies.
Critics have argued that the earliest days of Christianity were filled with heresies and orthodoxy only came much later. But this book shows that this is an incorrect view. There was no widespread diversity with regard to essential doctrines. Instead, there was a fixed set of of early core beliefs.
Dan Kimball, the book's author, tells the reader how to make sense of the Bible. For example, in one chapter he warns the reader never to read a Bible verse. Listen to this podcast for an explanation of what appears to be an odd statement by him.
Scott Klusendorf, a leading pro-life speaker and author, has a chapter in his book that tells pro-lifers how to ask good questions when dealing with a pro-choice individual.
I want to cover an important chapter in Garry Friesen's book that deals with a key question--How can a Christian make good decisions in non-moral areas? He emphasizes the wisdom model here.
I just read Neil Shenvi's book and wanted to share his first chapter, in which he tackles key questions: Should we avoid religious truth claims for the sake of peace? Are all religions true? Is all religious truth subjective? Can we just ignore religion?
Josh and Sean McDowell cover a lot of important things in the third chapter of their book--the definition of truth, how moral truth was undercut in the Western world, the world of postmodernism.
Scientists have been puzzled by the "Cambrian explosion," when many animals suddenly appeared on the earth. Stephen Meyer in this book explains how intelligent design is necessary as an explanation for this sudden appearance of life.
Dr. Alvin Schmidt, professor of sociology, has written a book illustrating the chasm-wide differences between the Western world and the world of Islam. In the section I cover here, he explains how modern science came out of the West, not Islam.
Craig Blomberg, noted New Testament scholar, explores evidence for the life of Jesus outside the gospels. There actually is a lot of testimony confirming the gospel portraits of Jesus.
There was a gap of time between the life of Jesus and the appearance of the four gospels. Can we trust oral tradition to keep the message accurate?
Neil Lightfoot, a professor at Abilene Christian University, explains how we got the 66 books we have today in the Bible. There were many more books written during the period of the Old and New Testaments, so how were certain ones included while others were excluded?
Dr. Jeff Myers, president of Summit Ministries, tells stories of how Jesus followers changed the world by living for Truth. This podcast covers his challenge to us today--ways we can tell the truth and be nice at the same time.
Darrell Bock, Dallas Theological Seminary professor, wrote a critique of the popular book The Da Vinci Code. Although Dan Brown's book is no longer a top seller, Bock has a chapter that is still relevant today--it deals with Gnosticism and "hidden" gospels like The Gospel of Thomas, which are still being talked about among scholars. Should these other gospels be considered on a par with the traditional four that we have in our Bibles today?
Tim Keller uses chapter 4 to discuss theodicies, the various attempts people have made to explain why, if there's a good God, there is so much pain and suffering in the world. Keller examines several of these Christian responses.
Hugh Ross and associates of his at Reasons to Believe tackle four reasons that life couldn't have arisen without God's involvement. Their arguments deflate the optimistic belief that life can develop easily by purely natural means. This leads to the conclusion that UFOs are not from alien worlds teeming with life.
Lots of good questions answered here: Are religions the root of all evil? Is apologetics necessary? Can you argue a person into the kingdom? What are the most significant apologetics issues? How do we know the Bible is divine rather than human in its origin?
Here's an interesting book by Josh and Sean McDowell that deals with tough questions people ask. I focus on questions concerning the hiddenness of God, what "faith" means for a Christian, and two arguments for the existence of God.
The author, Hal Seed, attempts to shed light on the world's most important book. I cover a chapter called "How Is the Bible Different From Other Books?"
I have discussed a section of this book in a previous podcast. This time I'd like us to see how the authors answer an important question: Is Mormonism Christian?
This is a fascinating book that examines Jewish writings over the centuries to see what they believed about their Messiah. This podcast looks at the suffering servant passages in Isaiah and David's "pierced" comments in Psalm 22.
I am using this podcast to give an overview of Stephen Meyer's influential book Signature in the Cell, which argues for an intelligent designer based on recent discoveries about DNA.
This book looks at young people born after 2000 (known as Gen Z). I cover two chapters that discuss the characteristics of this generation and ten strategies to connect with them.
This massive book tackles scientific, philosophical, and theological problems with theistic evolution. This podcast focuses on a chapter demonstrating the incompatibility of T.E. with New Testament teachings.
As the title says, this book wrestles with difficult Bible passages. I look at issues dealing with why there are differences among the synoptic gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), the different genealogies of Jesus in Matthew and Luke, and why Jesus referred to himself as the Son of Man.
R. C. Sproul, well-known theologian, pastor, and teacher, answers more than 300 frequently asked questions about life and faith. I discuss a chapter in which he considers faith--what it is and how to effectively share it with others.
J. Warner Wallace's book does an amazing job revealing reasons we can be confident in the existence of God. Let's take a look at his chapter on the fine tuning of the universe that scientists have been discovering over the past few years.
Phil Yancey has written a classic that examines the problem of pain and suffering. This podcast covers a chapter that talks about our "groaning planet" with and possible answers to this problem that everyone wrestles with.
This book is a collection of essays on apologetics. I'm talking here about chapter 3 in which Greg Koukl covers his extremely useful list of tactics to use when interacting with a non-believer. This is good material that he expands upon in his book Tactics.
This podcast covers several different issues the book discusses--the idea of a flat earth, the supposed war between Christianity and science, and the weaknesses of the Darwinian account of evolution.
Natasha Crain has another powerful book parents can use to help keep their kids focused on Christianity. I look at her chapter that answers the question "Do we really have free will?"
John Stonestreet and Brett Kunkle have written an important book every parent should read. They tackle many important threats to our kids. I look at one chapter that discusses the evils of pornography and what parents can say to their children about it.
Doug Groothuis, in this massive book's twentieth chapter, discusses doubt, skepticism, and the hiddenness of God.
Craig Blomberg, noted scholar and author, covers six issues that he thinks are important for us to wrestle with when it comes to the Bible. I look at his intro where he lays these questions out to explain why he still believes the Bible.
This podcast will feature key beliefs and practices of Muslims as covered in this book.
Greg Koukl's book does a great job explaining Christianity to many people who don't understand its message. In this podcast, I discuss two of his chapters that focus on Jesus--Was he just a recycled redeemer, another myth? Who exactly was he?
The authors answer two questions that I focus on in this podcast--Are the New Testament accounts of demons true? Why are there four different gospels?
In his monumental work, N. T. Wright covers a lot of material relating to the New Testament. I discuss his opening chapters on why we should study the New Testament and how to see it as history.
Greg Koukl's book is excellent for dealing with a huge influence on our society--relativism. This podcast focuses on chapters 1 and 2, dealing with the death of truth, pleasure ethics, and what a relativism hero looks like.
Three professors have written a book which argues that the gospel satisfies our longings for truth, beauty, and meaning. I cover their first chapter: "An Invitation to Apologetics."
This time I'm looking at a fascinating topic that can't be confirmed--is the Shroud of Turin the actual burial cloth of Jesus? Phil Fernandes does an excellent job going over the historical and scientific evidence that has been accumulated. See what you think.
Let's take another look inside Lee Strobel's popular book. This time I cover a chapter that explores the gospels--Can they be trusted? Who wrote them? When were they written?
Tim Keller's book, The Reason for God, was a New York Times bestseller. This is the second podcast I have devoted to the book, this time focusing on the difficult issue of evil and suffering existing in a Christian worldview that says God is good.
Phil Fernandes, noted speaker and author, wrote this book as a response to the New Atheists Christopher Hitchens and Richard Dawkins. The chapter I cover deals with the issue of whether Jesus claimed to be God.
Dan Story is the author of several clear and compelling books. In this one, I look at his chapter on whether Christianity is responsible for environmental degradation and how other religions have handled environment issues.
This book, now renamed How Christianity Changed the World, tells of the many blessings Christianity has brought to humanity. Today's podcast looks at ways Christianity influenced education for the better.
Here's a good book that provides useful overviews of major religions and new religions. This podcast focuses on his introduction to Buddhism. By the way, feel free to contact me if you'd like to enroll in a free apologetics certificate program. You can reach me for more details at gary.zacharias@gmail.com
I'm continuing with two podcasts per week. For this one I review a couple of chapters in Hank Hanegraaff's book Resurrection--the existence of the soul and the concept of reincarnation.
Because there is so much good information available in apologetics books, I am switching to creating two podcasts a week--one on Wednesday and one on Saturday. I hope the extra material will be helpful to you. For this podcast I go back to Chuck Colson's book The Faith and discuss his chapter on truth, how it's been lost today, and its importance to Christianity. The second podcast of the week will be available Saturday. Hope the new format will be useful.
In one of his chapters, James Emery White deals with five issues that people complain about when they consider Christianity--legalism, judgmentalism, hypocrisy, intolerance, and sexism.
In chapter 4 of his book, Clay Jones discusses various ways non-believers try to cope with the reality of death--"Immortality would be boring," "Death is necessary for life to go on," "Death is nothing," "Live a detached life," "Our particles go on," . . . He shows how ineffective these are.
This is a good book because it doesn't just complain about our society. Instead, the author offers a chapter that explains how we can drive out a bad worldview by offering a better one.
John Lennox discusses DNA and information processing in the cell. The key question is simple--How did the genetic code , along with the mechanisms for its translation, originate? Without the existence of a creator, it seems impossible to answer the question.
How early were the gospels? If they were close to the time of Jesus, there would be little chance that myth and errors could creep in. I'm covering a chapter in Wallace's book that discusses this important question.
I am taking the time to reflect on completing 100 podcasts--the variety of apologetics issues, how we are enjoying a golden age of apologetics, good websites to visit, dealing with people who are apathetic when it comes to religious concerns, and many other items I hope you find interesting.
I look at many quotations Hugh Ross presents in his book on the fine-tuning of the universe. Many discoveries have been made recently that show how the earth and the entire universe are exactly right to allow life to be here.
This beautifully-illustrated book has a good chapter on Old Testament prophecies that I cover in this podcast.
I go through a key chapter in this book that focuses on the characteristics of God, according to Mormonism, and how it contrasts with the Biblical understanding of God.
Norm Geisler, a well-known Christian apologist, teams up with a former Muslim to write of the fundamental beliefs of Islam and how Christians can respond to them. In this podcast, I consider their chapter on the Qur'an, which evaluates its history, prophecies, science, and literary qualities.
One section of this book offers good questions to ask Jehovah's Witnesses regarding their organization and key beliefs. I discuss several of these extremely useful questions.
Tim Keller does a wonderful job explaining and defending Christianity to a secular world. Here he explores the idea of death to a culture that tries to deny it. I cover a chapter that gives reasons why our society today seems much less prepared for it than previous generations.
I wrote a book that covers many aspects of Christian apologetics. I want to tell you what's it's about and how you can have a free copy.
Fuzale Rana has a fascinating book that describes how incredibly complicated the cell really is. I spend time going through a chapter that discusses biochemical motors that perform unbelievable functions on a cellular level.
We have all seen signs proclaiming "Black Lives Matter," "Love Is Love," and "Women's Rights Are Human Rights." The author of this book, Rebecca McLaughlin, offers a gentle yet powerful biblical corrective to five contemporary claims. I focus in this podcast on her chapter dealing with "Black Lives Matter."
Though an older book, this has good information on why modern science arose only in the Christian West.
Rebecca McLaughlin's book deals with twelve hard questions aimed at Christians. This podcast focuses on one of her chapters: "Doesn't Christianity Denigrate Women?"
Lawrence Wright, a Pulitzer-Prize winning author, wrote this book on Scientology. I give a brief overview of his book to show how this belief system shares many attributes of cults, why it has an appeal, and ways Christians can interact with someone who is involved with it.
Gary Habermas is the leading scholar on the resurrection of Jesus. In this book he and Mike Licona offer a valuable resource for anyone looking for detailed historical evidence of the physical resurrection of Jesus. I cover the opening chapter that talks of why this event is so crucial, whether Jesus actually predicted his rise from the dead, and whether this event can be "proven." I also mention the five minimal facts that the majority of all historians are willing to grant regarding the resurrection.
Natasha Crain has done a wonderful job equipping parents with tools to help them keep their kids focused on the truth of Christianity. I cover her chapter on how the books of the New Testament were chosen.
Randy Alcorn tackles the difficult issue of the existence of God in a world of pain and suffering. This is the number-one complaint many have--how can there be a good, all-powerful God when there is so much evil in this life? I look at his first chapter, in which he explains why the problem of evil and suffering is so important.
Natasha Crane has written a book that describes the modern secular culture we live in and ways Christians can navigate it. Today's podcast looks at her chapter that explains why secularism is so appealing.
This is one of the best apologetics books available. I go over a chapter in it that talks about early testimony about Jesus.
Here's a book that tackles six false accounts of Christianity's history. I am looking at the author's chapter on missionaries and the good that they have really done, as opposed to the myth that they wrecked native cultures.
Rodney Stark, noted historian, takes a look at the Crusades to show how many misconceptions and lies exist about those struggles. I explore his chapter that refutes the idea of a "Dark Ages" in Europe and clears up a misconception about Muslim culture.
This book tackles major attacks on Christianity. I look at a chapter that explores the history of science and Christianity to show that they are not enemies.
Zondervan has produced a beautiful book that explores archeological discoveries that validate the historical accuracy of the Bible. I focus on a pharaoh's boast, desperate letters sent to Egypt, the missing Hittites, David, and the Philistines.
This handbook covers so many interesting things about the Bible. This podcast focuses on the flood story and the resurrection of Jesus.
Norm Geisler, a well-known speaker and author, took on the challenge of writing an introduction to the entire Bible. I look at a chapter of his that discusses the Old Testament Apocrypha.
N. T. Wright, noted author, teacher, and theologian, has put together a wonderful book full of information. I focus on a chapter of his that explores who Jesus thought he was.
Here's a science book that's easy to read as it explores the origins of the universe, life, and humans. I spend time on their eighth chapter where they discuss how humans began.
For this podcast, I want to give you a list of ways to become more involved with apologetics. Our world needs to hear the case for Christianity, and we can all be part of this endeavor.
Nancy Pearcey has written an excellent book that explains how we can judge other competing worldviews using five principles from the first chapter in Romans. I cover her introduction to these principles.
James Emery White has written an excellent book to challenge all of us to make a difference in the world around us. I spend time going over his chapter on developing a Christian mind, something that is lacking in too many Christians today.
Justin Brierley, radio talk-show host, has had many atheists discuss their beliefs on his show. This book discusses why he is still a Christian despite hearing their arguments against Christianity. I focus on five claims he often hears from them.
A physicist explains why we can believe there's a God through an examination of the Big Bang and fine tuning throughout the universe. I spend time in this podcast discussing what he has to say about fine tuning as seen in the physical laws that govern the universe.
I share several good quotations from authors, church leaders, and professors. They challenge us to get involved in apologetics because it's vital to us and our society. If you'd like to get a copy of these quotations, email me at gary.zacharias@gmail.com.
Instead of highlighting a book, I want to talk about why we should be involved with apologetics.
Norm Geisler and Ron Rhodes take on various groups that twist Bible passages to suit their doctrines. Does God have a physical body? Are we saved by our works? Are the wicked annihilated? I look at their responses to these questions that challenge historic Christian teachings.
Here's a rich book with many topics on Christian apologetics. I want to cover a chapter on Jesus--is he Lord, liar, lunatic, or myth?
Fazale Rana, a biochemist, looks at the origin of man and argues that Adam was a deliberate, purposeful creation by God. I spend time here looking at a scientific creation model he and Hugh Ross have developed for Reasons to Believe. I also delve into his chapter on the Neanderthals.
Hugh Ross, a Christian scientist, explores reasons why we can believe the earth was carefully prepared by God for us to live here. I spend time on why the universe is so massive and why the Milky Way Galaxy is exactly right for life to exist on earth.
Ron Rhodes has written an easy-to-read, fact-filled book that deals with major problems of the Watchtower Society. The chapter I look at in this podcast is titled "The Watchtower Society Does Not Speak for God."
Here's a book that explains over 500 of the toughest Bible passages. It also has excellent introductory articles that cover important questions, one of which I discuss here--Why does God seem so angry in the Old Testament and loving in the New Testament?
Richard Simmons III has written a series of essays that seek to answer the key question of life--is there a God? I look at his challenge to all of us--follow the evidence wherever it leads.
Would you like a solid foundation in defending your faith? Do you want to make a case for the truth of Christianity? An organization I founded offers you a free certificate program. Contact gary@apologeticsforlife.org or go to sdcapologetics.com.
There are excellent books that defend the Bible from modern skeptics. I discuss eight of them.
I have an armful of good apologetics books that take on important social issues that Christians are dealing with today.
I have created a list here of my favorite apologetics books and magazines in the areas of science, history, general apologetics, social issues, the Bible, and other religions and sects. Any of these would make a great present for someone interested in defending the truth of Christianity.
I cover seven books the listener might want to add to his/her bookshelf to set the story straight regarding Christianity's impact on world history.
I picked six books that I think do a great job exploring the relationship of Christianity and science.
Here is a wonderful book full of essays in honor of Gary Habermas, the world's leading expert on the resurrection of Jesus. I talk of Craig Hazen's chapter that explains why someone starting a religious quest should consider Christianity first.
John Lennox writes about a contentious issue--science and Genesis. I cover a chapter in this book that deals with the age of the earth as described in the early chapters of Genesis.
Hank Hanegraaff, who hosts a radio program, has put together a book that has many of his answers to questions he gets about God, Jesus, Christianity, and many other topics. I cover several questions he answers about the Trinity, life after death, polygamy, Pharaoh's hardened heart, baptism, James on works, and women in the church.
Here's a terrific updated version of a classic book. Josh and Sean McDowell put together new evidences for the truth of Christianity. I want to discuss what they say at the beginning of the book: why apologetics is necessary and ten misconceptions about Christianity.
This is a good book for seeing how worldviews understand key disciplines of life--theology, philosophy, ethics, psychology, . . . In this podcast I go over the ten disciplines as they seek to explain biology, the study of life.
This is an excellence guide for parents and Christian leaders to help our youth survive and thrive in a poisonous culture. In this segment, I talk about the way our society encourages a perpetual adolescence and how to move youth toward adulthood.
A wonderful thinker and writer, Nancy Pearcey, shows how the modern worldview has dehumanized us. She points out it is Christianity that sustains the dignity of the body and accords with science and biology. In this podcast, I review her chapter on the casual "hook-up" sex that's so prevalent today.
J.P. Moreland is a prolific author, and that's a good thing. His book on scientism is well worth reading. I cover a chapter that explains why Christians should be concerned about this dangerous ideology that has made such huge inroads into our society.
The Bible at one time was called the "Good Book," but now it's come under attack. Robert Hutchinson shows how it was the Bible that formed our American understanding of human rights--gifts from God rather than privileges given (or withdrawn) by the State.
Don't let the title confuse you. The authors argue against those who want to change how we see early Christianity. I look at a chapter that explores the creation of the New Testament canon, the collection of divinely inspired books. Was the canon a late creation of the Roman church? They answer "no" using good research.
Jonathan Morrow defends the Bible against several major challenges. For this podcast I review his reaction to the idea that the Bible supports slavery, promotes genocide, is homophobic, and demeans women. Another good book that goes into more depth with these issues is Paul Copan's Is God a Moral Monster?
Here's a powerful set of apologists who argue for the Christian worldview. Instead of looking at one of their arguments, I want to share an article by Craig Hazen that defends the use of apologetics.
The title is not a typo--it's a look at the history of the Mormon church. I use this podcast to examine the origins and problems with the Book of Mormon as discussed in the book.
Three Christian professors take on Bart Ehrman and other skeptics who challenge the Christian faith. This podcast deals with the challenge that there can't be a God since there is so much evil in the world.
We may have some troubling questions with difficult Bible passages, so here's a book that has informed answers. I look at a couple of issues people have had with the Bible--Did Moses really write the first five books of the Bible? Was the book of Daniel really written well before the empires he predicted would arise?
Ken Samples takes on several challenges to Christianity. This podcast deals with the explosive growth of Christianity--was it supernatural or natural?
Richard Bauckham does a masterful job arguing that the Gospels are the results of eyewitness testimony. I cover several of his reasons.
Christians often need help in reading and understanding the Bible, and this book does an excellent job for this purpose. I look at the final chapter that explores effective ways to understand the book of Revelation.
Hugh Ross, a well-respected scientist and author, examines UFO sightings. This podcast focuses on his discussion of interstellar travel and a possible connection between UFOs and demons.
Here's a book by a non-Christian who is exploring the spiritual anarchy that has taken hold as traditional religions have lost their dominance in American society. I look at a chapter in which she gives three reasons these new "religions" may not fade over time.
J. Warner Wallace has done it again--another impressive book that uses his skills as a cold-case detective. This book focuses on Jesus and how he has influenced the world. I review his chapter on how Jesus and later followers played such a valuable role in the rise of modern science.
This is one of three books in an excellent series called Understanding the Times. In this podcast, I look at a chapter that wrestles with the doctrine of hell, something that many people are uncomfortable with.
We don't do a good job as Christians when it comes to being Christian thinkers seven days a week. Jonathan Morrow tells us how to be better at this important task. I focus on his chapter dealing with apologetics.
Author Os Guinness explores the problem of evil and suffering. In chapter 7, the one I focus on for this podcast, he explains how our American culture today has eroded traditional barriers to evil.
Christians want to know how to make good decisions and whether God has set up a blueprint for their lives. Garry Friesen says there are problems with this view and presents a different way to make good decisions.
Tim Keller wrestles with a major concern for all people - the problem of evil and suffering. Gary Zacharias | The Apologist's Bookshelf
Here's a book based on questions gathered in a recent national survey. The chapter I cover deals with this question that's often asked in our society today: "Why do you condemn homosexuality when it's clear God made gays and that he loves all people the same?"
Here's a book that is great for students getting ready for college. In the chapter I discuss, Jonathan Morrow talks about preparing for college life and ways to think Christianly (having a Christian worldview).
Scott Klusendorf, the president of Life Training Institute, has written the most effective pro-life book around. I touch on several objections to the pro-life position and Scott's responses. He can be reached at prolifetraining.com.
Theistic evolution (T.E.) is gaining ground as a way to consider the first few chapters in Genesis. This book challenges T.E. in the areas of science, philosophy, and theology. I examine one chapter that shows major theological problems with theistic evolution.
In this booklet Alan Shlemon of Stand to Reason does a great job exploring Islam. I focus on a section in which he answers key questions about Islam.
Josh and Sean McDowell tackle a huge issue in our society--the growth of cultural tolerance. It leads to many problems, and the two authors teach the reader to counter its influence.
You probably know some Mormons and may want to learn of effective ways to share your beliefs with them. This book will show you many useful techniques to do this.
Mark D. Roberts tackles a crucial question--are the gospels reliable? I will look at a chapter of his that says we can know what the original gospel manuscripts said even though we no longer have them today.
Many people are uneasy about the strange verses they encounter, especially in the Old Testament. Dan Kimball explores some of these and explains how we should understand them.
In this book by John Lennox, the author wrestles with big issues--artificial intelligence and the future of humanity. I focus on a chapter that discusses a popular book called Homo Deus and the dreams of transhumanism.
This book will amaze the reader by illustrating and explaining archeological discoveries that provide evidence for the reliability of the Old and New Testaments.
Greg Koukl has written a book that tells the Christian story in a unique way--through five key words (God, man, Jesus, cross, and resurrection). In this podcast I go over his introductory remarks regarding worldviews and two objections people have to Christianity.
Chuck Colson wrote a wonderful book explaining basic Christian beliefs in an accessible manner. I'm focusing on his chapter dealing with the Trinity.
J. Warner Wallace explores various reasons we can believe that a God exists. I focus on one chapter that covers the differences between the mind and the brain, thus showing we are not simply physical beings.
McDowell and Wallace tell the results of polls that show young people walking away from Christianity, why they are doing this, and ways we can keep them Christian.
Christians are often accused of manipulating Old Testament passages to make Jesus look like the fulfillment of them. This book, however, shows that ancient Jewish rabbis believed in a Messiah very close to the one proclaimed by Christians. I look at a chapter that talks about the time period for the coming of the Messiah.
Relativism has grown to become a huge influence in our society. Greg Koukl offers a critique of it in Relativism. I look at a chapter that explains tactics that can be used to refute relativism.
Lee Strobel has created a series of books that use his journalistic skills to examine the Christian faith. I spend time in The Case for Christ looking at a chapter that investigates circumstantial evidence for the resurrection of Jesus.
New York Times bestselling author Tim Keller explains in The Reason for God how belief in a Christian God is a sound and rational one. He uses literature, philosophy, real-life conversations, and powerful reasoning in the book. I deal with his chapter on one argument that people often raise--there can't be just one true religion.
Dan Story tackles an issue that Christians often misunderstand. He deals with questions about whether Christianity is to blame for environmental and ecological problems. He also explains what the Bible really says about environmental stewardship. I take a look at the section in the book that discusses the biblical story of the fall, how we can participate in the redemption of the earth, and the true idea of stewardship.
James Emery White is one of my favorite authors. In this 2019 book, White gives uncommon answers to key questions people have about God, the Bible, Jesus, and social concerns. I focus on his chapter that covers the Bible.
Stephen Meyer is author of Return of the God Hypothesis In this best-selling book, he makes his case for intelligent design and describes how Judeo-Christian theology gave rise to science. I give a brief overview of this challenging book.
Alvin J. Schmidt wrote Under the Influence, now titled How Christianity Changed the World. This podcast looks at a chapter in the book devoted to explaining how Christianity elevated the status of women.
John Lennox, author of God's Undertaker, deals with the idea that science has buried God and that atheism, therefore, is the only intellectually tenable position. In the chapter I have selected, Lennox describes the war of worldviews that exists when science and Christianity are discussed.
Today America is swamped with Critical Race Theory. A new book, Why Social Justice Is Not Biblical Justice, talks about it and the idea of social justice. I look at one chapter that describes what CTR values and doesn't value.
Clay Jones has written Immortal, a powerful book that describes how the fear of death drives us and what we can do about it. This episode focuses on chapter 3 of his book--symbolic immortality projects people desperately set up to avoid dealing with the reality of death.
Here's a general introduction to what my podcast is attempting to do. Plus, I'm reviewing a section of J. Warner Wallace's book Cold Case Christianity. Wallace in this part of his book covers abductive reasoning and the minimal facts approach to the resurrection of Jesus.