COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This course contrasts the Biblical concept of apologetics with various alternative positions, both theistic and non-theistic. It considers major problem areas such as authority, miracles, evil, and evolution, and sets forth a basis for Christian apologetics that is theologically and historically sound.

I. RATIONALE:
In order for the student of the Bible to “defend the faith,” he or she must be intellectually aware of the biblical proofs and evidence that support the Christian faith.

II. PREREQUISITES:
Dynamic Christian Foundations – RS 101

III. PROGRAM OBJECTIVES AND RELATED SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES:
A. Cognitive:

1. Evangelistic: To provide understanding for the Christian worker in addressing the doubts that bind some unbelievers, through the reading of texts and completion of all assignments.

2. Pastoral: To gain a helpful understanding of the systematic evidence from the Word of God that defends the Christian faith.

3. Personal: To equip students to undergird their own faith and to resolve critical issues in an atmosphere of faith.

B. Performance:

1. The student will be able to produce solid biblical evidence to support the tenets of the Christian faith.

2. The student will be able to defend with biblical truth against attacks on Christian teachings.

IV. PREASSESSMENT:
A. The student must write a brief paper on course goals and a brief summary of their own defenses of the faith.

V. INSTRUCTIONAL/LEARNING ACTIVITIES:

1. The textbook(s) must be read in its entirety, the student study guide completed, and an open-book exam taken.

2. Write a 5–7 page paper presenting your personal testimony and defending it in an apologetic style, with Scripture references.

3. Complete several collateral reading assignments from the bibliography to ensure a well-rounded knowledge of the subject.

VI. SELF-EVALUATION:
A. Reread the preassessment in light of what has been learned in the course.

VII. POST ASSESSMENT:
A. The student will reread their brief paper on course goals.
B. The student will complete the course instructor evaluation.

VIII. CORRECTIVE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES:
A. Rewrite the 5–7 page paper, incorporating any corrections suggested by the mentor.

IX. LEARNING RESOURCES, MATERIALS, TOOLS, ETC.
A. Required Text:

• Strong Reasons, Ken Chant, Vision International College

B. Additional Bibliography:

1. Clark/Geisler. Apologetics in the New Age. Baker Book House.

2. Dunn, J. Evidence for Jesus. Westminster Press.

3. Lewis, C.S. Miracles. Macmillan.

4. Lewis, C.S. The Case for Christianity.

5. McDowell, J. Evidence That Demands a Verdict. Thomas Nelson.

6. Menzies, William. Apologetics. ICI Publishing.

7. Ramm, Bernard. Protestant Christian Evidences.

*Outline/Description Prepared by: Dr. Stan DeKoven. Rev. 7/97.*