or defending a doctrine?
Tom at Disputations points out that winning a point may mean losing a soul. If we make the system of beliefs the object of faith, then we're arguing for a falsehood.
I read (into) this to mean in part, our mission is not to prove the doctrines of the Church but to bring people to know Christ Jesus. The rest will follow naturally as the heart is inclined to the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Or not--and at that time we look more carefully at the doctrines and help and lead the person to understand the point being made, all from the point of view of Love. Compassion--leading another to the source of love, the only place where Truth can be found unalloyed.
Read Tom's magnificent exposition in several parts--this one marking a beginning.
From the bookstore where I work {and, thank the Lord, receive a discount} I just bought How Not to Share Your Faith: The Seven Deadly Sins of Apologetics.
Dear Owen,
That's one I'll have to get.
Thank you.
shalom,
Steven