Apologetics Quote by William D. Dennison
““After the Christian apologist has uncovered the central presupposition of his opponent, he is in a position to move on to the next step: to demonstrate that his opponent cannot live consistently from his presupposition(s). Keep in mind that, according to Van Til, apologetics is not a battle between competing presuppositions. The object of apologetics is not to show that my presupposition is better than your presupposition. Rather, for the Christian apologist, the presupposition of the absolute authority and truth of the self-attesting Christ of Scripture calls all men to repentance and faith in Christ as their presuppositions and systems of thought are brought into the open. For Van Til, there is an antithesis between the Christian presupposition and all other presuppositions.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Apologetics: The Van Til Approach by William D. Dennison, 1995
Christian apologetics aims to expose the inconsistency of opposing worldviews, not to prove superiority, focusing on the absolute authority of Christ as the ultimate presupposition.
In simple terms: Apologetics reveals contradictions in others' beliefs, emphasizing Christ's authority.
Key Takeaway
Examine underlying assumptions.
Themes
faith
logic
presuppositions
Mood
analytical
serious
Type
theological
educational
When to use this quote
- debates
- seminar discussions
- personal study
- interfaith dialogues
Key Concepts
theology
philosophy
argumentation
Questions to Reflect On
- What presuppositions shape your worldview?
- How can respectful dialogue address contradictions?
A Different Perspective
Assuming all non‑Christian views are flawed can alienate dialogue.
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