Public Debate This Thursday
The inspired apostle Peter instructed Christians to “always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15). At Apologetics Press, we strive not only to provide materials that equip Christians to give a defense, but we also try to be on the front lines of that defense ourselves. In our efforts to provide a reasonable defense of New Testament Christianity, we are sometimes called upon to publically engage those who attack God and Christianity.
On Thursday, September 29, at 7:00 p.m., I will be participating in a formal debate with atheist Blair Scott, the Director of Communications for the American Atheist organization. He was the recipient of the American Atheist of the Year award in 2007 and again in 2010. The proposition for the debate is: “God Does Not Exist.” Mr. Scott will affirm that God does not exist, and I will deny that affirmation.
The debate will be held on the campus of the University of North Alabama (UNA) in the Norton Auditorium. Norton Auditorium seats about 1,700. The seating will be on a first come, first served basis, and there will not be any tickets or any cost to attend the event. The doors will open at 5:30, so we would encourage all who want a good seat to be there as close to that time as possible. In the case that the auditorium fills up, there will be several venues within a few blocks that will be showing the Internet live stream of the debate. Directions to those sites will be available at the auditorium that evening. (For information about the live stream see: /apcontent.aspx?category=6&article=2698.)
At Apologetics Press, we believe that a debate format offers a unique perspective on important issues. It combines the personalities of the disputants, with the strengths or weaknesses of each position, in a way that encourages interaction between two views. In many cases, publicly debating a proposition can help uncover the flaws and inconsistencies of a particular position, while at the same time bringing to light the truth and validity of other beliefs. In some ways, a debate is one of the most valuable ways to analyze the truth of any position.
It is our prayer that the upcoming debate will be an excellent opportunity to bring glory to the Creator of the Universe. In the process, we believe it will also strengthen the resolve of those who believe in God and challenge the beliefs and the hearts of those who do not. We hope that you will pray for the success of this event and make your plans to be a part of it.
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