Includes bibliographical references and index.

"Apologetics is a branch of Theology that aims to build the intellectual defence of the truth of the Christian religion. This aspect of Christian thought has become increasingly popular in the last two decades, and much contemporary work in theology, biblical studies, and Christian philosophy now devotes to themes of apologetic nature. As a result, more colleges and seminaries are offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in Christian apologetics, and there is also a large and enthusiastic lay audience, both general and specialised, interested in apologetic works. The proposed title aims to fill a crucial gap in the market, currently hold by established but dated works of apologetics that lack the breadth of a textbook (see Competing Texts' below). Written by an expert in apologetics (as well as a seasoned textbook author, praised for his student-friendly approach and clear writing), Christians Apologetics: An Introduction is expected to become the essential reading for any apologetics courses in colleges and seminaries. The book will benefit from McGrath's own experience as international lecturer on the topic and revolves around one key assumption: apologetics is about engaging cultural concerns about religious belief, and offering explanations and defences of faith. This work does not advocate a specifically denominational approach (Catholic, Protestant, Evangelical), but is intended to find wide acceptance across denominations, paralleling the success of Christian Theology: An Introduction. After an introductory section on the definition and history of apologetics (chapters 1-2), the book will then cover five major approaches to apologetics, identifying their strengths and weaknesses and discussing their key representatives (chapters 3-7). The last two chapters engage several representative difficulties for Christian faith, and will examine the real-life connection of apologetic studies with the life of the Church, showing how the material in the book can be connected to ministries in churches. Compact yet comprehensive, Christians Apologetics: An Introduction offers a thorough introduction to key themes and leading representatives of this tradition while also engaging the major debates in the field."-- Provided by publisher.