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Apologetics 315 discusses the topics of Apologetics, Evangelism and the Christian worldview, and interviews a variety of Christian apologists.
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Episodes
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Transcribed
1 NOV 2025 · Summary:
In this episode, Brian and Chad talk with Christian apologist and evangelist **Eric Hernandez** about his book *The Lazy Approach to Evangelism: A Simple Guide for Conversing with Non-Believers*. Eric discusses how evangelism and apologetics intersect, why every believer is called to defend the faith, and how to engage with skeptics effectively and biblically.
Key Topics Covered:
* Eric’s philosophy of evangelism and how apologetics fits into it
* The danger of emotion-based evangelism vs. truth-based evangelism
* Understanding “strongholds” (2 Corinthians 10) as false ideas that block people from knowing God
* Identifying and addressing major worldviews: postmodernism, scientism, and naturalism
* Paul’s example of adapting to the audience (1 Corinthians 9:20–23)
* “The Lazy Approach”: asking the right questions instead of having all the right answers
* The importance of theological triage—keeping the main thing the main thing
* Understanding the **burden of proof**, **rebuttals vs. refutations**, and **logical fallacies**
* Using Colossians 4:5–6 as a biblical foundation for gospel conversations
* How Jesus modeled effective apologetics with both compassion and precision
* Encouragement for Christians who feel intimidated by evangelism or apologetics
* Why apologetics isn’t optional—it’s commanded and part of loving God with all your mind
Quotes:
“If you’re not engaging in apologetics, you are in rebellious disobedience to the Word of God.” – Eric Hernandez
“You don’t need to know all the right answers; you need to learn how to ask the right questions.”
“Evangelism isn’t about winning arguments—it’s about tearing down strongholds.”
Mentioned in This Episode:
* *The Lazy Approach to Evangelism* by Eric Hernandez
* Previous Apologetics315 episode: *Eric Hernandez on the Soul*
* Greg Koukl – *Tactics: A Game Plan for Discussing Your Christian Convictions*
* J. Gresham Machen on false ideas as the greatest obstacles to the gospel
* 1 Peter 3:15; 2 Corinthians 10:4–5; Colossians 4:5–6
Resources:
* Book: *~[The Lazy Approach to Evangelism on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/)~*
* Eric Hernandez’s YouTube Channel: ~[https://www.youtube.com/@EricHernandez]
* Support Eric’s Ministry: Details and updates available via his upcoming newsletter and website relaunch
Takeaway:
Apologetics isn’t for specialists—it’s for every Christian. The “lazy” approach isn’t about being passive; it’s about being wise. Ask questions, listen well, keep the main thing the main thing, and let truth do the heavy lifting.
================================
We appreciate your feedback.
If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.
You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
And of course, you can follow @Apologetics315
If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com
Transcribed
19 OCT 2025 · Guest: Braxton Hunter — President of Trinity College & Seminary, evangelist, apologist, host of Trinity Radio, debate partner with leading atheists including Matt Dillahunty and Dan Barker.
Topics Covered
Braxton’s background and conversion
• Son of a megachurch pastor, early ministry exposure
• Initial desire to be a rock musician before surrendering to ministry
• Seminary training, pastoral and itinerant evangelistic ministry
Shift toward apologetics
• Need to answer skeptics in evangelism contexts
• Classical apologetics and the “two-step” method (God → Christ)
Family and priorities
• Marriage, parenting teenage daughters
• Intentional discipleship at home — prioritizing family over platform
Origins and growth of Trinity Radio
• Started as a simple audio response blog
• Growth through debates (Dillahunty, Barker), collaboration with other creators
• Unique chemistry with Jonathan Pritchett (“good cop / blunt cop” dynamic)
The “Core Facts” initiative for churches
• A two-day on-site training weekend using Braxton’s book Core Facts
• Designed for ordinary church members to gain confidence and competence
• Goal: launch sustainable apologetics groups inside local churches
Approach to debate & online engagement
• Winsome, pastoral tone—credible & charitable without compromise
• “Win the person, not just the argument”
• Strategic preparation and use of AI/thumbnails/titles for online ministry
• Guidance for aspiring Christian content creators
Behind the scenes of major debates
• 8-month preparation for Matt Dillahunty debate
• Note-taking strategy & rehearsing responses
• Intentionally creating tone and rapport without ceding substance
Referenced Resources
https://www.amazon.com/Core-Facts-Understandable-Teachable-Christian/dp/149184311X (2nd edition)
Trinity Radio (YouTube / Podcast)
“Five Views on Apologetics” — Zondervan
TalkAboutDoubts.org — pastoral/apologetic care for doubters
================================
We appreciate your feedback.
If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.
You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
And of course, you can follow @Apologetics315
If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com
Transcribed
24 JUL 2025 · Summary
In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross welcome back philosopher and author **Peter S. Williams** to discuss his book, *Behold the Man: Essays on the Historical Jesus*. This engaging conversation explores the intersection of worldview, epistemology, and historical scholarship in the search for the real Jesus.
Topics Covered:
- The Structure and Purpose of Behold the Man
A collection of revised essays exploring various historical, philosophical, and theological dimensions of Jesus.
- Worldviews and Historical Inquiry
How modernism, postmodernism, and the emerging metamodern perspective affect approaches to the historical Jesus.
- Epistemology and Openness to Evidence
Why the worldview and theory of knowledge you bring impacts whether you can honestly assess historical claims about Jesus.
- An Early High Christology in James
Peter argues for early Christian belief in Jesus’ divinity based on linguistic and contextual clues in the Epistle of James.
- Dating the Gospels – Especially John
Examination of internal and external evidence supporting the traditional dating of the Fourth Gospel and its authorship by the Apostle John.
- Miracles and the Resurrection
Responding to philosophical objections to miracles, with particular focus on David Hume and the resurrection as a historically reasonable belief.
- Minimal Facts vs. Maximal Data Approaches
Comparison between Gary Habermas’s minimal facts method and broader evidential strategies in defending the resurrection.
- Responding to UFO and Ancient Alien Theories
Why Christian apologists should engage with these alternative explanations, and how to challenge them both philosophically and scientifically.
- Emotional Barriers to Belief
How personal experience and discomfort with change often block serious consideration of evidence—and how to engage that pastorally.
- The Role of Apologetics in Spiritual Formation
Why apologetics is a signpost, not a substitute, for commitment to Christ. Knowing *about* Jesus is not the same as *following* Him.
================================
We appreciate your feedback.
If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.
You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
And of course, you can follow @Apologetics315
If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com
Transcribed
2 JUN 2025 · Summary
Chad Gross interviews Dr. Christopher Cloos about the challenging Old Testament violence texts and his recent debate with theologian Randal Rauser. They explore the complexities of interpreting these texts, the role of moral intuition, and the contrasting views of covenant virtue ethics and providential errancy theory.
The conversation delves into how moral intuitions can inform biblical interpretation while also addressing the potential pitfalls of subjectivity in understanding scripture.
They explore how moral intuition can be used to interpret scripture, the implications of difficult passages, and the importance of engaging with differing views charitably. The conversation also highlights resources for further learning in this area.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Apologetics and Old Testament Violence
03:02 Dr. Cloos’ Background and Interest in Old Testament Texts
06:06 Debate Overview: Rauser vs. Cloos on Biblical Violence
08:47 Understanding Moral Intuition in Biblical Interpretation
11:55 Covenant Virtue Ethics vs. Providential Errancy Theory
14:54 The Role of Moral Intuition in Exegesis
17:53 Concerns About Subjectivity in Interpretation
20:50 Using Jesus as a Tool for Interpretation
25:58 Epistemic Circularity and Moral Intuition
32:28 Covenant Virtue Ethics and Difficult Texts
40:02 The Role of Hyperbole in Ancient Texts
48:10 Engaging with Different Views Charitably
53:42 Resources for Further Learning
================================
We appreciate your feedback.
If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.
You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
And of course, you can follow @Apologetics315
If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com
Transcribed
24 MAY 2025 · Summary
Brian Auten interviews ultra runner and philosopher Sabrina B. Little. They explore the intersection of endurance sports and ethics, discussing how running can cultivate virtue, expose vice, and serve as a training ground for character development.
Sabrina shares her journey from philosophy to ultra running, emphasizing the importance of discipline and habit in forming virtues. The conversation delves into the complexities of virtue and vice, the role of sports in moral formation, and the life lessons learned through endurance racing.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Endurance and Ethics
02:07 Sabrina's Journey: From Philosophy to Ultra Running
08:44 Virtue Development Through Endurance Sports
15:16 The Spectrum of Virtue and Vice
19:09 Habit, Discipline, and Character Formation
23:00 Life Lessons from Endurance Racing
25:03 Training for Life: The Christian Race
28:11 Spiritual Disciplines: The Workout for Character
30:29 Lessons from the Desert Fathers
32:41 Understanding Intransigence in Perseverance
36:01 The Balance of Perseverance and Prudence
40:57 Navigating Competitiveness in Athletics
45:15 Character Development Beyond Sports
46:46 Influential Thinkers and Resources
Sabrina Little’s Book:
https://www.amazon.com/Examined-Run-People-Better-Runners/dp/0197678696
https://www.amazon.com/Examined-Run-People-Better-Runners/dp/0197678696
https://www.sabrinalittle.com
================================
We appreciate your feedback.
If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.
You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
And of course, you can follow @Apologetics315
If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com
Transcribed
17 MAY 2025 · Summary
In this episode of the Apologetics 315 podcast, hosts Brian Auten and Chad Gross speak with Dr. Marcus Ross, a prominent figure in the Young Earth Creationism debate.
They explore Dr. Ross's background, his journey in paleontology, and the challenges faced by Young Earth Creationists. The conversation delves into the historical context of Young Earth Creationism, the evidence supporting it, and the importance of open dialogue in understanding differing perspectives on creation and evolution.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Apologetics 315 Podcast
08:30 - Interview with Dr. Marcus Ross
17:46 - Dr. Ross's Background and Education
18:15 - Understanding Young Earth Creationism
35:02 - Evidence for Young Earth Creationism
39:17 - The Dynamics of Scientific Discourse
41:13 - Exploring Radioactive Dating and Young Earth Hypotheses
53:31 - Young Earth Creationism and Scientific Methodology
58:30 - Interpreting the Fossil Record Through a Young Earth Lens
01:11:01 - Dinosaurs and the Young Earth Perspective
01:16:43 - Punctuated Equilibrium and Paleontology
01:19:07 - Interpreting Data and Scriptural Context
01:23:21 - The Starting Point of Interpretation
01:30:46 - The Challenge of Young Earth Creationism
01:37:51 - Exploring Views on Creation and Salvation
01:44:10 - Collaboration Between Young and Old Earth Creationists
01:52:15 - Resources for Young Earth Creationism
================================
We appreciate your feedback.
If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.
You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
And of course, you can follow @Apologetics315
If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com
Transcribed
14 APR 2025 · Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Apologetics 315 Podcast, hosts Brian Auten and Chad Gross welcome back J. Warner Wallace and his son Jimmy Wallace to discuss their new graphic novel, 'Case Files: Murder and Meaning.'
The conversation explores their journey into comic books, the collaborative process of creating a graphic novel, and the themes of identity and value within the context of law enforcement. They also discuss the challenges of balancing Christian and secular perspectives in storytelling, aiming to create a narrative that resonates with a diverse audience.
In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of identity, particularly within the context of law enforcement and the creative process behind their graphic novel. They discuss the importance of apologetics in storytelling, the challenges of character development, and the impact of fiction on moral understanding. The dialogue also touches on the future of their series and the hope of reaching both Christian and non-Christian audiences through their work.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests
03:09 The Journey into Comic Books
05:49 Creating a Graphic Novel: The Collaboration
09:11 Exploring Themes of Identity and Value
11:50 Balancing Christian and Secular Perspectives
14:54 The Challenges of Writing for Diverse Audiences
20:27 Struggles of Identity in Law Enforcement
22:28 The Role of Apologetics in Fiction
24:40 Creative Process in Graphic Novels
26:48 Character Development and Artistic Vision
30:11 Exploring Meaning in Life and Death
34:45 The Impact of Fiction on Moral Development
38:41 Future Directions for the Series
================================
We appreciate your feedback.
If you’re on X, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.
You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
And of course, you can follow @Apologetics315
If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com
Transcribed
2 APR 2025 · Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Apologetics 315 podcast, hosts Brian Auten and Chad Gross discuss the book “Rational Faith” by Stephen T. Davis. They explore the unique approach Davis takes in defending Christianity, emphasizing humility in apologetics and the rational basis for faith. The conversation covers various themes including theistic evolution, the reliability of the Gospels, and arguments for the resurrection of Jesus. The hosts appreciate Davis's ability to present complex ideas in an accessible manner, making a case for Christianity that is both thoughtful and engaging.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:48 Overview of “Rational Faith” by Stephen T. Davis
02:59 Unique Approach to Apologetics
06:10 Humility in Apologetics
09:01 Theistic Evolution and Christianity
11:56 Faith and Reason in Christianity
15:05 Cosmological Arguments for God's Existence
17:52 The Reliability of the Gospels
21:03 The Resurrection of Jesus
34:42 Conclusion and Future Discussions
================================
We appreciate your feedback.
If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.
You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
And of course, you can follow @Apologetics315
If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com
Transcribed
6 MAR 2025 · Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Apologetics 315 podcast, hosts Brian Auten and Chad Gross welcome Professor Ken Samples to discuss his new book, 'Clear Thinking in a Messy World.' The conversation explores the intersection of logic, critical thinking, and the Christian worldview, emphasizing the importance of discernment and understanding cognitive biases.
The hosts and Ken delve into the significance of Jesus as a logician and thinker, the role of science and philosophy in achieving objectivity, and the necessity of careful thinking in today's information-saturated environment. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the significance of logic and critical thinking, emphasizing their role as tools for clearer thinking and better work across various fields.
They discuss the importance of understanding logical fallacies while maintaining a charitable approach in discussions. The conversation also highlights the necessity of character development in education, the value of revisiting great books, and the idea of the church functioning as a school for intellectual growth. Practical steps for fostering a more intellectually engaging church environment are shared, along with insights on mastering topics through worldview thinking and utilizing resources effectively for learning.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
03:30 The Significance of Logic in Christianity
09:55 Jesus as a Logician and Thinker
16:08 The Importance of Discernment in a Messy World
21:58 Understanding Cognitive Biases
29:56 The Role of Science and Philosophy in Objectivity
37:33 The Power of Logic and Critical Thinking
40:08 Understanding Logical Fallacies
48:37 The Importance of Character in Education
49:05 Books That Shape the Mind
56:14 The Church as a School
01:02:58 Mastering a Topic Through Worldview Thinking
01:09:11 Utilizing the Book for Learning
================================
We appreciate your feedback.
If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics.
You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten
And of course, you can follow @Apologetics315
If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at podcast@apologetics315.com
Transcribed
30 JAN 2025 · Episode Summary:
In this episode, Brian and Chad welcome Melissa Dougherty, author and apologist, to discuss the influence of the New Thought movement on modern culture and Christianity. Melissa shares insights from her book, explaining how New Thought has infiltrated self-help teachings, Word of Faith theology, and broader church beliefs. She also explores its historical roots and the challenges of recognizing and addressing these ideas in Christian circles.
Key Topics Discussed:
1. Introduction to New Thought
Overview of New Thought as a movement distinct from New Age beliefs.
How it has subtly shaped modern self-help, prosperity gospel, and even mainstream Christian teachings.
2. The Influence of New Thought in Popular Culture
Connections to figures like Oprah Winfrey and self-help gurus.
The role of books like Think and Grow Rich in spreading New Thought principles.
Influence on multi-level marketing (MLM) mindset and motivation tactics.
3. Theological Implications and Concerns
How New Thought distorts biblical concepts such as faith, prayer, and God's sovereignty.
The impact on Word of Faith theology and the prosperity gospel.
The dangers of "manifesting" and the law of attraction from a biblical perspective.
4. Engaging with Those Influenced by New Thought
Melissa’s research approach, including attending Unity churches and speaking with adherents.
The importance of asking thoughtful questions rather than attacking beliefs.
Encouraging discernment and deeper biblical study to counteract misleading teachings.
5. Practical Steps for Listeners
How to recognize New Thought influence in Christian teaching.
Resources for deeper study, including Melissa’s book and other apologetics materials.
Encouragement to develop strong hermeneutics and biblical literacy.
Quotable Moments:
"New Thought isn’t New Age—it’s something much sneakier because it uses Christian language."
"If the faith cure movement, Pentecostalism, and New Thought had a baby, it would be the Word of Faith movement."
"We need to understand scripture in context, rather than cherry-picking verses to fit our desires."
Resources Mentioned:
Happy Lies: How a Movement You Probably Never Heard of Shaped Our Self-Obsessed World by Melissa Dougherty
Melissa Dougherty’s YouTube Channel
Apologetics 315 Website: apologetics315.com
SpeakPipe for listener questions: speakpipe.com/apologetics315
Truthbomb Apologetics Blog: truthbomb.blogspot.com
Connect with Us:
Email: podcast@apologetics315.com
Leave a voice message: speakpipe.com/apologetics315
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================================
We appreciate your feedback.
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Apologetics 315 discusses the topics of Apologetics, Evangelism and the Christian worldview, and interviews a variety of Christian apologists.
Information
| Author | Defenders Media |
| Organization | Defenders Media |
| Categories | Christianity |
| Website | www.apologetics315.com |
| podcast@apologetics315.com |
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