Zondervan - The History of Apologetics: A Biographical and Methodological Introduction

This volume employs competent scholars to write about noteworthy apologists throughout the history of the churchs intellectual engagement with the unbelieving world. Apologists shouldnt defend the faith in a historical vacuum since we ought to stand on the shoulders of giants. This is the most thorough history of its kind that I know of and will repay careful study for the defense of the faith given once and for all to the saints.

DOUGL AS GROOTHUIS, professor of philosophy at Denver Seminary, author of Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith

This book contains richly developed surveys of the apologetic arguments and approaches of a wide array of the Christian faiths greatest and most influential advocates over the centuries. Though the book is easily readable, it is extraordinarily informativelike the best apologetic works themselves! I learned so much from reading this book, even with regard to authors whose writings I know. Highly recommended to every Christian and especially to clergy and scholars, for whom the task of Christian apologetics is an urgent call.

MATTHEW LEVERING, James N. and Mary D. Perry Jr. Chair of Theology at Mundelein Seminary

This is a most valuable guide to the history of Christian apologetics throughout the ages. Expert authors provide readable summaries that will be useful both to those being introduced to the subject and to those who wish to review the wide range of options.

GEORGE MARSDEN, author of Jonathan Edwards: A Life and C. S. Lewiss Mere Christianity: A Biography

The History of Apologetics is a must-have for the shelves of any serious student of apologetics. With an impressive list of contributors, it provides a comprehensive yet detailed survey of various approaches to the defense of the Christian faith from patristic to modern times. Of particular value is the diversity of approaches represented by the apologists included, with notable entries among the more modern figures including John Henry Newman, G. K. Chesterton, Dorothy L. Sayers, and C. S. Lewis. This provides substantial content for approaches to defending the faith that engage with cultural issues and draw on imagination and the arts as a methodology. The result is a volume that genuinely presents the historical and ecumenical richness of apologetics as a discipline and will serve as a valuable foundation for working apologists.

HOLLY ORDWAY, Word on Fire Institute Fellow of Faith and Culture, author of Apologetics and the Christian Imagination

ZONDERVAN ACADEMIC

The History of Apologetics

Copyright 2020 by Benjamin K. Forrest, Joshua D. Chatraw, and Alister E. McGrath

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ePub Edition May 2020: ISBN 978-0-310-55955-9

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV . Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc . Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.Zondervan.com. The NIV and New International Version are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc .

Scripture quotations marked ESV are taken from the ESV Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version). Copyright 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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Scripture quotations marked RSV are taken from the Revised Standard Version of the Bible. Copyright 1952 [2nd edition 1971] by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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Cover design: Claudine Mansour Design

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Interior design: Kait Lamphere

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To Graham and Hudson: you were named after men who faithfully proclaimed the glory, grace, and mercy of God. Your mother and I pray that you will do the same with your lives and throughout your lives.

BKF

To Mark Allen, a skilled teacher, a wise leader, a faithful friend

JDC

In memory of Michael Green, an inspirational evangelist, apologist, and friend

AEM