Christian Apologetics
Question 11: What is Evidential Apologetics?
Answer: Evidential Apologetics is a major school of thought in Christian Apologetics.
Comment: Evidential Apologetics uses the preponderance of evidence to establish the truth of Christianity.
Unlike Classical Apologetics, which begins with philosophical proofs for God’s existence and moves to evidences in a “two-step approach”, the Evidentialist will begin with the use of archaeology, fulfilled prophecy, historical data, and miracles to suggest that Christianity is true, or a “one-step approach”. They will also use evidence and logic to refute objections, so called “negative apologetics.”
Evidential Apologetics recognizes that the Holy Spirit works persuasively through evidence. Much like an attorney, the Evidentialist will build a case based on verifiable and reproducible facts. It’s methodology is abductive in its use of reasoning in that it draws the most reasonable conclusion from the amount and quality of evidence.
Advocates/Teachers: Josh McDowell, Lee Strobel, John Warwick Montgomery, Gary Habermas, J. Warner Wallace
Mark Riser - Apologist 