Philosopher Randal Rauser on Apologetics

"The Greek word apologia refers first and foremost to a formal defense of one's beliefs.  And what could be wrong with that?  But while I definitely resonate with that pursuit, I also believe that one should only defend one's beliefs because one believes them to be true.  This means that I view apologetics as a quest for truth.  And if we're really serious about that, then apologetic debate should be as much about revealing weaknesses in one's own view as illuminating their strengths, for if our views fail to match up to the truth in any way, we should want to know.  Serious dialogue is a fantastic testing ground for our beliefs in the manner of iron sharpening iron."1

For more from Dr. Rauser, see here.

Courage and Godspeed,
Chad

Footnote:

1. Randal Rauser and Justin Schieber, An Atheist and a Christian Walk into a Bar..., p. 14.

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