Taking C.S. Lewis? Mere Christianity as a platform, Alister McGrath offers us the basics on apologetics in an attempt to introduce the wider Christian community to the ins and outs of the discipline and clear up any misconceptions. Being of a scientific background McGrath is naturally very clear and precise in his writing, which means the reader is never lost whilst dealing with the occasionally difficult topic. His intention is to clear up any lingering suspicion that apologetics is purely a defensive mechanism for Christians, and rightly insists throughout that apologetics is necessary in helping to clear the way for responding to the gospel, and that good apologetics is commenced with a mindset of engagement. Whilst being somewhat dry in places, McGrath has done well to set down such a clear summary of the nature and practice of apologetics. His last chapter on developing one?s own apologetic approach is both very good and desperately needed, and his occasional worked examples prove helpful. If you are looking to engage in apologetics, then this is the place to start.

Taking C.S. Lewis’ Mere Christianity as a platform, Alister McGrath offers us the basics on apologetics in an attempt to introduce the wider Christian community to the ins and outs of the discipline and clear up any misconceptions. Being of a scientific background McGrath is naturally very clear and precise in his writing, which means the reader is never lost whilst dealing with the occasionally difficult topic. His intention is to clear up any lingering suspicion that apologetics is purely a defensive mechanism for Christians, and rightly insists throughout that apologetics is necessary in helping to clear the way for responding to the gospel, and that good apologetics is commenced with a mindset of engagement. Whilst being somewhat dry in places, McGrath has done well to set down such a clear summary of the nature and practice of apologetics. His last chapter on developing one’s own apologetic approach is both very good and desperately needed, and his occasional worked examples prove helpful. If you are looking to engage in apologetics, then this is the place to start.

This is a fresh, clear, and practical introduction to apologetics from someone who doesn't just talk about the subject but actually does it brilliantly. It is especially helpful because it avoids the fruitless wrangling between apologetic schools that stops many people from getting on with the task.