Pull me up a chair....this looks like this will be a dandy.
Not to break balls but you have to admit, this is a stretch. If rational is based on logic, then how can you have a rational defense of the things that im thinking about with Christanity? FZ, its all good, because at the end of the day, its what makes you feel complete so whatever you guys are into is all good with me...just dont try and bring about the rapture for a while.
:toast:
Fletch,
Thanks for asking. The rational defense of Christianity is a whole branch
of theology called apologetics. There have been countless volumes
writtern in this area. I'll point you to a short summary, with some
good pointers to more detailed writings.
http://www.leaderu.com/orgs/probe/docs/defense.html
These are excellent resources:
<dl><dt>Brooks, Ron and Norman L. Geisler.
When Skeptics Ask: A Handbook on Christian Evidences. Wheaton, IL: Victor, 1990.</dt><dd>This book addresses a variety of issues in Christian apologetics, from the existence of God to the authority of the Bible and the nature of humanity. It is very readable, and its handbook format makes it easy for the reader to find answers to specific questions without searching through the whole book.</dd></dl>
<dl><dt>Geisler, Norman L.
Christian Apologetics. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker, 1976.</dt><dd>This is a textbook for courses in Christian apologetics, so it is very detailed and at times rather tedious reading. It presents a complete defense of Christianity from a philosophical viewpoint and can be very helpful.</dd></dl>
<dl><dt>Moreland, J. P. and Kai Nielson.
Does God Exist? The Great Debate. Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 1990.</dt><dd>This book consists of an actual debate between a theist (J. P. Moreland) and an atheist (Kai Nielson). It includes responses from two other theists (William Lane Craig and Dallas Willard) and two other atheists (Antony Flew and Keith Parsons). All of these men are philosophers, so the debate can be rather challenging at times, but it is a very helpful work for those who want to explore these issues in some depth.</dd></dl>
<dl><dt>Watkins, William and Norman L. Geisler.
Perspectives: Understanding and Evaluating Today's World Views. San Bernardino, CA: Here's Life, 1984.</dt><dd>This book examines seven different world views and argues for the truth of Christianity. It is very readable and very helpful.</dd></dl>
<dl><dt>Craig, William Lane.
The Son Rises: The Historical Evidence for the Resurrection of Jesus. Chicago: Moody, 1981.</dt><dd>This is an excellent book that thoroughly defends the resurrection of Jesus from a historical perspective. It is well-reasoned and very readable. Highly recommended.</dd><dt>
</dt><dt>Morison, Frank.
Who Moved the Stone? London: Faber & Faber, 1930. Reprint. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1958.</dt><dd>This book was written by a man who intended to disprove the resurrection. In his studies he became convinced that it had actually occurred, and this book presents the evidence that changed his mind.</dd></dl>
<dl><dt>Bruce, F. F.
The New Testament Documents: Are They Reliable? Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1960.</dt><dd>This is a helpful book by a highly respected New Testament scholar. He argues for the historical authenticity and reliability of the New Testament.</dd></dl>
<dl><dt>McDowell, Josh.
Evidence that Demands a Verdict: Historical Evidences for the Christian Faith. San Bernardino, CA: Campus Crusade for Christ, 1972.</dt><dd>One of the most helpful apologetics books available, this work discusses the uniqueness of the Bible, demonstrates the strength of its manuscript support, and also examines the evidence for the resurrection of Jesus Christ.</dd><dt>
</dt><dt>________.
More Evidence that Demands a Verdict: Historical Evidences for the Christian Faith. San Bernardino, CA: Campus Crusade for Christ, 1975.</dt><dd>This sequel to McDowell's first book focuses on higher criticism and scholarly attempts to undermine the authenticity of the biblical text. Very thorough and very helpful.</dd><dt>
</dt><dt>Yamauchi, Edwin.
The Stones and the Scriptures: An Introduction to Biblical Archaeology. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker, 1972.</dt><dd>Quite thorough for an introduction, this book argues that archaeological discoveries continue to support the truth of the biblical text. </dd></dl>
