58658

Tactics is one of the most important books you could choose to read, though I would encourage the 10th anniversary edition of the same if you have to pick. Greg Koukl doesn't present tactics for proving Christianity true, though he certainly argues that effectively.

Rather, he presents methods for holding difficult conversations, regardless of the subject. While these are presented in the context of Christian beliefs, they can be applied to political discussions, family arguments, business meetings. These tactics are useful in all areas of life.

I easily consider this one of the top ten books everyone should read, and the younger the better. ( )

Using questions to engage in conversation

This is a book about engaging in conversations about faith, especially applied to apologetics. Koukl provides a number of tactical techniques to take control of a conversation (in the sense of guiding it, not dominating it) in order to help reveal the deeper beliefs and assumptions held by others, in hopes that this will open people to the truth of the gospel. In many ways, the techniques taught here could be applied to many types of conversations, and not just apologetic ventures. But applied to apologetics and evangelism, with sensitivity, these conversation tools hold promise of opening, rather than closing ears.

While very helpful, I did find Koukl's approach to be terse at times. But this is likely in part due to his offering digested accounts of the conversations he records for illustration purposes. Another minor weakness in the book is Koukl's reference to Darwinian evolution almost as a view without merit, when contrasted to his apparently preferred ID view. Holding this position is fine, but I suspect what he means by Darwinism is primarily a rejection of naturalistic Darwinism as a worldview. It would help for him to nuance this point a bit more, since the topic is raised a number of times.

That said, Koukl does much to help elevate the Christian's confidence to be able to gently but firmly ask questions of others leading to opportunities to speak about Jesus. ( )

Excellent Read! and Excellently Read! thought provoking strategy to just just consider, but implement. and what a way to magnify God's truths as we engage others and hope for opportunities to share the hope that is in us. may we be better at asking questions to our lived ones and those the Lord puts in our path. ( )

This is a very helpful presentation on techniques to improve communicating with others on spiritual matters, and it would likely apply to other areas of disagreement as well.
-- In a given situation with another, what one thing can I say/ask that will promote thinking or a conversation? No need to do it all; "put a pebble in his shoe."
-- Don't get overwrought about getting to the gospel; look for the sheep who seems to take notice (J 10:27-28).
-- In replying to someone, ask an open-ended question (Columbo tactic). "What do you mean by that?" "Tell me more."
-- Then, if someone makes an assertion, put them on the hook. "How did you come to that conclusion?" (Whoever presents an argument has the responsibility to back it up. Gently press them for the reasons for their belief.
-- Don't let yourself get caught in a bind. "Let me think about that." This gives you time to get a good reply, and sets up the next discussion. Can be preceded by, "Would you explain that more?" This is good with a powerful opponent, or with a new topic.
-- To begin to challenge someone: "Have you ever considered...." "Can you help me understand something..." This is when you see a hole in their position.
-- If you think you are going to be challenged on a controversial topic, maybe precede your opinion by asking, "Do you consider yourself a tolerant person?" Box them into committing to respect your opinion, and then call them on it if they do not.
-- Suicide -- when an argument dies from its own weaknesses. Ex: "There is no truth." (Is this a true statement?) "You can't know anything for sure." (How do you know that?)
-- Taking the roof off -- Try to follow what happens if the principle of the argument is followed on out. Will it fail?
-- Scholars, experts -- Their field may not be applicable to the matter in question. Also, do they merely give an opinion, or also the reasons for that opinion?
-- Facts -- Be as specific as possible in your own statements. Look for facts in the opposing position. Do they look plausible? ( )