January 10, 2010- Lee Strobel Introduction

Introduction to Course of Study

• The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel books are available if you didn't get one in class. Just get in touch with me for a book.
• We watched the following testimonial video by the author:

• In studying the book, we will discuss a chapter each week in sequence. If the class feels there is need to spend longer on a particular chapter or topic, that's absolutely okay.

The Bible as a historical document

• Our study will take an investigative approach to validate the facts of Christianity as we follow Strobel through the book. This is not to undermine the importance of faith in Christianity (Ephesians 2:7-9).
• The importance of Scripture and trusting our Bible as the inspired word of God was discussed. A brief look at the process of canonizing the New Testament was presented but deferred for later discussion when it comes up in the book.
• Gnostic gospels were briefly touched on, and another video from Strobel's website discussing the Bible as a historical document was played:

Christian Apologist

• Christian Apologist like Lee Strobel were defined and discussed. Christian apologetics is a field of Christian theology that aims to present a rational basis for the Christian faith, defend the faith against objections, and expose the perceived flaws of other world views.
• Famous Christian Apologist include the Apostle Paul, Saint Augustine, Thomas Aquinas and C.S. Lewis. Issac Newton was also brought up as an example from his latter years in life. C.S. Lewis authored Mere Christianity, a book considered by many to be one of the most influential Christian writings of the 20th century (Christianity Today 2006). He is also famous for writing the seven book series Chronicles of Narnia.
• Apologist was differentiated from apostolic by defining the latter as the faith following the gospels and epistles of the Apostles of Jesus (New Testament).
• I briefly touched on the importance of checking information sources (i.e. the History Channel, websites, etc.). A lot of information is presented as factual but is in fact presented with a bias or unspoken agenda. I personally feel it's okay to use Wikipedia (despite being frowned on by academia) as long as you know the references and sources sited at the bottom of an article.
• I didn't have time to show another video about apologist tactics, but I've included it here if you're interested. Some of the points mirror points also made by Derek in his sermon that followed (thanks Pastor Derek for the reinforcement):

Next Week: The Case for Christ Chapter 1