Tactics

1. Master the Columbo Tactic: Ask strategic questions

Simply put, never make a statement, at least at first, when a question will do the job.

Gather information: The Columbo tactic involves using three types of questions to navigate conversations effectively. First, ask "What do you mean by that?" to clarify the other person's position. This helps avoid misunderstandings and gives you time to think.

Shift the burden of proof: Next, ask "How did you come to that conclusion?" This puts the responsibility on the other person to defend their view, rather than you having to disprove it. It often reveals weaknesses in their reasoning or lack of evidence.

Lead the conversation: Finally, use leading questions to guide the discussion in a productive direction. These can help expose flaws in the other person's argument or introduce your own ideas indirectly. Remember, the goal is not to win an argument, but to engage in thoughtful dialogue and plant seeds of truth.

2. Recognize and expose self-defeating arguments

Arguments designed to show that a view is contradictory are always lethal if they can be sustained.

Identify contradictions: Many popular arguments against Christianity are self-refuting. For example, the claim "There is no truth" is itself a truth claim, thus contradicting itself. Similarly, moral relativists often make absolute moral judgments, undermining their own position.

Expose the flaw: When you encounter a self-defeating argument, point out the contradiction gently. Ask questions that help the other person see the problem with their reasoning. For instance, if someone says, "You shouldn't force your morality on others," you might ask, "Is that a moral judgment you're forcing on me?"

Types of self-defeat:

• Formal Suicide: Directly contradicts itself
• Practical Suicide: Can be believed but not lived out consistently
• Sibling Rivalry: Two parts of an argument contradict each other
• Infanticide: Relies on a premise that, if true, would negate the argument

3. Use the "Taking the Roof Off" technique to reveal absurd conclusions

If you help someone see in advance that the route his map recommends will actually lead him off a cliff, he might consider changing his course.

Follow the logic: This tactic involves taking someone's argument to its logical conclusion to show that it leads to absurd or unacceptable results. It's a way of testing whether a worldview or belief system aligns with reality.

Expose inconsistencies: For example, if someone argues that "anything natural is morally acceptable," you might ask if they would apply that logic to behaviors like violence or selfishness, which are also "natural." This reveals the inconsistency in their reasoning.

Steps to Take the Roof Off:

1. Identify the core argument or principle
2. Follow it to its logical conclusion
3. Show how this conclusion is absurd or unacceptable
4. Invite the person to reconsider their starting point

4. Handle aggressive debaters with the Steamroller tactic

Because steamrollers are so aggressive, you must manage them aggressively, though you do not need to be rude.

Recognize the behavior: Steamrollers are aggressive debaters who constantly interrupt and change topics, never allowing you to fully respond. They often rely on intimidation rather than sound arguments.

Three-step approach:

1. Stop them: Politely but firmly ask for uninterrupted time to respond.
2. Shame them: If interruptions continue, directly address their lack of courtesy.
3. Leave them: If all else fails, end the conversation respectfully.

Maintain control: The key is to stay calm and focused on the issues, not the person's attitude. Don't match their aggression, but don't be intimidated either. Remember, not everyone deserves an answer, especially if they're not genuinely interested in dialogue.

5. Evaluate expert claims critically using the Rhodes Scholar approach

What an expert believes is not as important as why he believes it. Fancy credentials are not enough. What matters most are not the opinions, but the reasons.

Ask for reasons: When faced with claims from experts or authorities, always ask for the reasoning behind their conclusions. Don't be intimidated by credentials; even experts can be biased or mistaken.

Distinguish information from education: Being told what an expert believes (information) is less valuable than understanding why they believe it (education). The latter allows you to assess the strength of their argument.

Be aware of bias: Recognize that experts may have philosophical or ideological biases that influence their conclusions. For example, a historian who assumes miracles are impossible will interpret evidence about Jesus differently than one who is open to supernatural explanations.

6. Refute challenges by appealing to facts and context

Regardless of our ideological impulses, deep inside each of us is a commonsense realist.

Know the facts: Many challenges to Christianity are based on incorrect information. Be prepared with accurate data and context to refute these claims. For example, the idea that "religion has caused more wars than anything else" is not supported by historical evidence.

Use precise information: When citing facts, use specific numbers and details rather than general statements. This adds credibility to your argument and shows that you've done your research.

Check context: Especially when dealing with biblical passages, make sure you understand the full context. Many misunderstandings arise from taking verses out of context or misinterpreting their meaning.

Two-step approach:

1. Identify the specific claim being made
2. Verify if the claim is factually accurate

7. Develop tactical skills through practice and preparation

The more you sweat in training, the less you bleed in battle.

Be ready: Prepare yourself for potential conversations by anticipating common objections and practicing your responses. This allows you to engage more confidently and effectively when opportunities arise.

Keep it simple: Focus on the core message of the gospel rather than getting sidetracked by peripheral issues. Avoid religious jargon and speak in language that's accessible to non-believers.

Practice and reflect: After each encounter, take time to reflect on what went well and what could be improved. Role-play with friends to sharpen your skills. Consider forming a study group to discuss apologetics and practice tactical approaches together.

Continuous improvement:

• Anticipate potential objections
• Prepare concise, clear responses
• Practice with others
• Reflect on real encounters
• Stay updated on current issues and arguments

Last updated: October 31, 2024