Reasonable Faith

Synopsis

Wanting to engage not just academics and pastors but Christian laypeople and seekers, William Lane Craig has revised and updated key sections in this third edition of his modern-day apologetics book.

Summary

Chapter 1: Can We Know Anything at All?

* Summary: Questions the foundations of knowledge, arguing that skepticism alone cannot be defended as the only valid position. Introduces the concept of presuppositions and the importance of provisional beliefs in any pursuit of knowledge.
* Real Example: The claim that "all knowledge is impossible" requires the presupposition of "I know that all knowledge is impossible." This presupposition contradicts itself, demonstrating the self-defeating nature of extreme skepticism.

Chapter 2: Is Truth Subjective or Objective?

* Summary: Examines the nature of truth and argues for an objective theory of truth. Counteracts the common misconception that truth is merely a matter of personal opinion or perspective.
* Real Example: The statement "the sun exists" is either true or false, and its truth value does not depend on individual beliefs or preferences. Scientific evidence supports the objective existence of the sun, demonstrating that truth is not wholly subjective.

Chapter 3: Are Moral Values Objective or Subjective?

* Summary: Discusses the nature of morality and argues for the existence of objective moral values. Challenges the idea that morality is simply a matter of personal preference or cultural convention.
* Real Example: The concept of murder is universally recognized as morally wrong, regardless of cultural or historical context. This suggests the existence of an objective moral standard that transcends individual or societal differences.

Chapter 4: Is There Evidence for God's Existence?

* Summary: Presents several arguments for the existence of God, including the cosmological, teleological, and moral arguments. Examines objections to these arguments and argues for their reasonableness.
* Real Example: The cosmological argument starts with the premise that everything that begins to exist has a cause. The universe began to exist, therefore it must have a cause, which is identified as God.

Chapter 5: Are the Miracles of the New Testament Real?

* Summary: Investigates historical evidence for the miracles recorded in the New Testament. Examines criteria for evaluating miracles and argues for the plausibility of the resurrection of Jesus.
* Real Example: Eyewitness accounts, including those outside the Christian tradition, provide evidence of the reality of Jesus' miracles. The resurrection is supported by the empty tomb, the post-resurrection appearances, and the conversion of skeptics like Paul.

Chapter 6: Can We Trust the New Testament as Historically Reliable?

* Summary: Assesses the historical reliability of the New Testament documents and argues for their overall trustworthiness. Addresses objections to the Gospels and argues for their historical accuracy.
* Real Example: The fact that the Gospels were written independently by multiple authors provides a higher level of historical reliability than a single-author account. The internal consistency of the Gospels and their agreement with other historical sources support their historicity.

Chapter 7: Who Was Jesus of Nazareth, Really?

* Summary: Examines the historical evidence for Jesus' life and claims. Presents evidence for his existence, his miraculous powers, and his claims to deity.
* Real Example: Roman historians like Tacitus and Josephus mentioned Jesus and his followers, confirming his historical existence. The Gospels provide detailed accounts of his miracles and teachings, including his claim to be the Son of God.

Chapter 8: Did Jesus Really Rise from the Dead?

* Summary: Investigates the evidence for Jesus' resurrection and argues for its historical plausibility. Examines the empty tomb, the post-resurrection appearances, and the transformation of Jesus' disciples.
* Real Example: The empty tomb, coupled with the fact that Jesus' body was not found, strongly suggests that he rose from the dead. The radical transformation of the disciples from fearful and skeptical to bold and confident provides further evidence for the reality of the resurrection.