Introducing Apologetics

“This book is a thoughtful introduction to Christian apologetics that is focused on the needs and interests of students but embodies a deep understanding of the underlying philosophical issues. It is a wise and helpful book.”
—C. Stephen Evans, professor of philosophy and humanities, Baylor University

“Introducing Apologetics finds the balance that apologetics books typically lack: it has sweeping breadth without being simplistic, it draws deeply on recent scholarship while remaining completely accessible, and it plumbs theoretical depths while offering practical, relevant wisdom. The result is a book wonderfully suited for the classroom and the nonacademic Christian reader alike.”
—Michael J. Murray, John Templeton Foundation

“Apologetics books are notorious for their struggle to find ways to be comprehensive, cutting edge, accessible, and relevant. Those that succeed at some tasks typically fail at others. Introducing Apologetics offers a refreshingly rare balance of these coveted traits. Readers can expect to be treated to the full range of traditional apologetic topics as well as to many that have only recently emerged as important. In addition, Taylor offers the reader sober, practical advice on the extent and limits of apologetics in the life of the Christian and in the Christian’s attempt to reason together with non-Christians. Finally, though each chapter is deeply informed by the most recent scholarship, it is thoroughly accessible, even to those with no prior exposure to the topics it treats. Here is a resource that belongs in every thinking Christian’s library.”
—Michael J. Murray, John Templeton Foundation

“[Taylor] employs the tools of analytic philosophy in a manner that is accessible to nonspecialists and integrates historical and biblical evidences in his defense of Christian faith. . . . There are many significant features of this text that are commendable. First, Taylor is to be commended for envisioning the discipline of apologetics to be done within the context of Christian discipleship. . . . A second strength is the tone of the book. It is irenic and balanced in its presentation of arguments, which is sometimes missing in apologetic and philosophical discussions. Lastly, Taylor covers a wide breadth of issues in the text. It is certainly in line with many of its literary predecessors since it does cover many issues found in traditional introductory books on Christian apologetics. Yet, the text is distinct in that it goes beyond these familiar yet important matters to include discussions that have again emerged in contemporary philosophy of religion and philosophical theology, which was certainly refreshing to read. . . . Taylor has provided a very informative and thorough introductory textbook on Christian apologetics. It is certainly a welcomed addition to the field.”
—Patrick T. Smith, Philosophia Christi

“In this introductory text on Christian apologetics, Taylor steers a middle course between ‘an overemphasis on reason and an overemphasis on faith.’. . . While there is nothing here that contradicts Catholic or Orthodox Christianity (and much in support), this text defends Christianity more broadly. . . . The text is readable and ideally suited for introductory courses on Christian apologetics, especially at the undergraduate level, and at evangelical institutions.”
—Glenn M. Harden, Religious Studies Review

“Taylor wrote this work as a college textbook with outlines of each chapter, lists of terms and people in each chapter, and review questions. It is both well-organized and highly user-friendly. . . . Taylor carefully crafted his work to help Christians understand who they are and what they believe as they are bombarded by the contemporary philosophies of our day. From a missiological perspective, the author approaches his subject with a Western mindset. He does an excellent job.”
—John F. Easterling, Missiology

“[An] introductory but thorough text on apologetics. . . . A refreshing feature is that it consciously attempts to cultivate faith within the Christian community rather than primarily attempting to evangelize those outside of it. . . . Taylor is best when dealing with some of the classic apologetic discussions. He reflects an impressive understanding of the underlying philosophical issues, while at the same time continuing to write in an accessible manner. . . . Throughout the book he summarizes complex arguments succinctly and clearly. . . . Especially pleasing about the book is its overall tone. . . . Throughout, the arguments are humble and fair. Taylor is always mindful of the limits of apologetics. The book is ideally suited to serve as an introductory textbook to the discipline. Each chapter begins with an outline, summary and list of basic terms, concepts and names, contains helpful highlights at regular intervals and concludes with questions for reflection and discussion, as well as a brief (and therefore realistic) list of suggestions for further reading. . . . I am confident that Introducing Apologetics will appear on reading lists at evangelical seminaries for many years to come.”
—Brian Harris, Colloquium

“This is a very significant new text in apologetics. Taylor is so very insightful on so many issues. . . . One will learn much even in those sections where one feels compelled to disagree. The writing style is not overly technical.”
—L. Russ Bush III, Faith & Mission