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Writer's pictureEdward D. Andrews
Sep 611 min read

How Can Christian Apologists Follow the Teaching Methods of Jesus and Paul to Give Effective Answers to Objections?

Jesus Christ: The Greatest Teacher


Jesus Christ stands as the unparalleled example of a perfect teacher. His teaching methods were effective because He understood the human heart, tailored His messages to His listeners, and always grounded His teachings in the truth of God's Word. By closely examining His methods, Christian apologists can learn how to answer objections and share the truth of the Bible in a way that resonates with their audience.



Active Listening


Jesus’ effectiveness as a teacher was deeply rooted in His ability to listen actively. He didn’t just hear what people said; He understood the deeper concerns, questions, and thoughts behind their words. For example, when He encountered the rich young ruler who asked, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” (Mark 10:17), Jesus listened closely to the heart of the question. While the man was seeking a list of commandments to follow, Jesus understood that the real issue was the man’s attachment to his wealth. As a result, He told the young man, “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me” (Mark 10:21). Jesus' listening allowed Him to address not only the surface question but also the deeper spiritual need.


For Christian apologists, active listening is equally crucial. Before jumping into explanations or defenses, it is important to hear the full concern or objection of the person asking. Often, objections to Christianity are not purely intellectual but have emotional or spiritual roots, such as past disappointments or misunderstandings about God’s nature. By listening well, an apologist can address the heart of the issue more effectively.



Kept It Simple


Though Jesus’ teachings were profound, He often communicated deep spiritual truths in simple, relatable terms. This made His message accessible to everyone, from the educated Pharisees to the common fisherman. He could distill complex theological ideas into clear, straightforward messages. Consider His teaching about the greatest commandment. When asked which commandment was the most important, Jesus responded simply: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind… And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:37-39). In just a few sentences, He summarized the essence of God’s law.


For modern Christian apologists, simplicity is key. While it may be tempting to use complex theological terms or elaborate philosophical arguments, it’s often more effective to communicate the core of the Christian message in a clear and straightforward way. Like Jesus, apologists should aim to make the truth of the Bible accessible to everyone.



Thought-Provoking Use of Questions


One of the most distinctive aspects of Jesus’ teaching style was His use of questions. Rather than always providing direct answers, Jesus often asked questions that forced His listeners to think more deeply. For example, when the Pharisees tried to trap Him by asking whether it was right to pay taxes to Caesar, Jesus responded with a question: “Whose image is this? And whose inscription?” (Matthew 22:20). His question led them to consider the implications of their own words, and His answer, “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's” (Matthew 22:21), was both profound and unassailable.


In the same way, apologists can use questions to encourage deeper reflection and understanding. When faced with objections, rather than immediately giving a full explanation, an apologist can ask a thoughtful question that challenges the person to examine their assumptions. This not only engages the person in meaningful dialogue but also opens the door for further exploration of biblical truths.



Employing Powerful Logic


Jesus also used powerful logic in His teachings, often dismantling the faulty reasoning of His opponents with clear and irrefutable arguments. One example of this is in Matthew 12:9-12, where the Pharisees challenged Jesus for healing on the Sabbath. Jesus responded with a simple, logical argument: “If any of you has a sheep and it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will you not take hold of it and lift it out? How much more valuable is a person than a sheep! Therefore, it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” Jesus’ use of logic revealed the inconsistency in the Pharisees' thinking and demonstrated the true purpose of the Sabbath.


Christian apologists must also employ sound logic when defending the faith. Many objections to Christianity involve misunderstandings or logical inconsistencies, and it is the apologist’s role to carefully and logically dismantle these errors. This doesn’t require fancy philosophical jargon but rather clear, rational thought grounded in Scripture.



Striking Figures of Speech


Jesus frequently used figures of speech to make His teachings memorable and impactful. These were often striking and vivid, helping His listeners grasp the significance of His message. For example, in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus used hyperbole to emphasize the seriousness of sin, saying, “If your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away” (Matthew 5:30). While not intended to be taken literally, this vivid language underscored the extreme measures one should take to avoid sin.


Apologists can use similar techniques by employing vivid illustrations or analogies to clarify difficult concepts. When explaining the concept of grace, for example, an apologist might use the analogy of a courtroom, where a judge declares a guilty person innocent—not because the person is innocent, but because someone else has paid the penalty. Such imagery helps make abstract theological ideas more tangible and understandable.



Meaningful Illustrations Drawn from Things Familiar to His Listeners


One of the reasons Jesus’ teaching resonated so deeply with His listeners is because He often used illustrations drawn from their everyday lives. In His agricultural society, He used farming imagery, such as in the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:3-9). This made His teachings relatable and accessible to His audience.


Similarly, modern Christian apologists should use illustrations that resonate with the experiences of their audience. For instance, when speaking to a group of scientists, an apologist might use examples from the natural world to illustrate the complexity and design of creation, pointing to Romans 1:20, which says, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made.”



Quoted or Referred to Scripture Over 120 Times


Jesus’ teachings were firmly rooted in Scripture. Throughout His ministry, He consistently quoted from the Old Testament to support His claims and refute objections. During His temptation in the wilderness, for example, He responded to each of Satan’s temptations with Scripture, beginning with the phrase, “It is written” (Matthew 4:4, 7, 10).


Christian apologists today must follow this example by grounding their answers in Scripture. The Bible is the ultimate authority on all matters of faith and practice, and by pointing to Scripture, apologists can show that their arguments are not based on human wisdom but on God’s revealed truth. 2 Timothy 3:16 reminds us that “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.”



Jesus' Perfect Example (Matthew 23:3)


Jesus not only taught the truth but also lived it out perfectly. His life was the ultimate example of righteousness, humility, and love. He practiced what He preached, and His life was a testament to the truth of His teachings. In Matthew 23:3, Jesus warned the people to “practice and observe whatever [the Pharisees] tell you—but not what they do.” Unlike the religious leaders of His day, Jesus lived in perfect harmony with His words.


For Christian apologists, it is essential to follow Jesus’ example by living a life consistent with the message they proclaim. Apologetics is not merely about winning arguments but about pointing people to the truth of the gospel through both words and actions. As 1 Peter 3:15-16 exhorts, apologists must defend the faith with “gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience.”



Understanding of Man


Jesus had a perfect understanding of human nature, knowing the thoughts, desires, and struggles of every person He encountered. He demonstrated this in His interactions with individuals such as Nicodemus, the Samaritan woman, and the disciples. Jesus understood that Nicodemus, though a Pharisee, was sincerely seeking truth, so He explained the new birth to him in John 3:1-21. With the Samaritan woman, Jesus understood her deep thirst for something more in life and offered her living water (John 4:10).


Apologists must also strive to understand the people they engage with. Everyone comes from a different background, and their questions may be shaped by personal experiences, cultural influences, or misunderstandings about Christianity. By understanding these factors, apologists can tailor their answers to meet the needs of their listeners.



His Loving Concern for Others


Above all, Jesus’ teaching was motivated by love. Whether He was healing the sick, feeding the hungry, or preaching to the crowds, everything He did was out of a deep love and concern for others. In Matthew 9:36, it says, “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”


Christian apologists must also be motivated by love. Apologetics is not about winning debates or proving others wrong; it is about leading people to the truth in love. As Ephesians 4:15 teaches, we are to speak “the truth in love.” Effective apologetics involves both sound arguments and genuine concern for the spiritual well-being of those we engage with.



Jesus Treated His Listeners with Understanding


Jesus never dismissed or belittled those who came to Him with questions, even when they were coming from a place of ignorance or doubt. When Thomas doubted His resurrection, Jesus didn’t rebuke him harshly. Instead, He met Thomas where he was and provided the evidence he needed, saying, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side” (John 20:27).


In the same way, apologists should approach others with understanding and patience. People may have sincere doubts or misunderstandings about the Christian faith, and it is the apologist’s role to gently guide them toward the truth, just as Jesus did with His followers.



Stirred the Listeners' Thinking Faculties


Jesus often challenged His listeners to think more deeply about spiritual matters. He didn’t always give easy answers, but instead, He invited His listeners to reflect on the deeper meaning of His teachings. This is evident in His use of parables, which often required thoughtful consideration to understand. For example, in the Parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus challenged the common understanding of who one’s “neighbor” was, leaving His listeners to reflect on their own attitudes and actions (Luke 10:25-37).


Christian apologists should aim to do the same. Instead of simply providing answers, they should encourage others to think critically about their beliefs and the implications of the gospel. This can be done through thought-provoking questions, illustrations, and challenges that invite deeper reflection.


The Apostle Paul: The Second-Greatest Teacher


While Jesus is the greatest teacher, the apostle Paul stands as an exceptional model for Christian apologists. His method of reasoning, explaining, proving, persuading, and defending the faith serves as a blueprint for effective apologetics.



Reasoned


Paul was known for his ability to reason logically and systematically from the Scriptures. In Acts 17:2-3, it says, “Paul went in, as was his custom, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead.” Paul didn’t rely on emotional appeals or personal opinions; instead, he reasoned from God’s Word, demonstrating how the Scriptures pointed to Jesus as the promised Messiah.


For modern apologists, reasoning from the Bible is crucial. The Bible is the authoritative foundation for all Christian doctrine, and it provides the answers to many of the questions and objections that people raise. By carefully and logically reasoning from the Scriptures, apologists can demonstrate the truth of the Christian faith.



Explained


Paul was also a master at explaining difficult theological concepts in a way that his listeners could understand. In his letters, he often took complex ideas—such as justification by faith, the nature of grace, and the resurrection—and broke them down into clear, understandable terms. For example, in Romans 5:1-2, Paul explained the concept of justification: “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.”


Likewise, apologists must be able to explain theological truths clearly and concisely. People may have misunderstandings about key Christian doctrines, and it is the apologist’s job to provide explanations that illuminate the truth. Whether it’s explaining the concept of the Trinity, the nature of sin, or the resurrection, clarity is essential.



Proved


Paul’s ministry was marked by a strong emphasis on proving the truth of the gospel. In Acts 9:22, we read that “Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Christ.” Paul used evidence from Scripture, eyewitness testimony, and even his own personal experience to prove the truth of the gospel message.


Christian apologists can follow Paul’s example by providing evidence for the truth of Christianity. This may involve using historical evidence for the resurrection, philosophical arguments for the existence of God, or personal testimonies of transformation through faith in Christ. By offering well-reasoned proof, apologists can help remove intellectual barriers to belief.



Persuaded


One of Paul’s most remarkable traits was his ability to persuade others. In Acts 26:28, King Agrippa said to Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” Paul’s persuasive power came not only from his logical arguments but also from his passion and conviction. He believed deeply in the truth of the gospel, and this belief came through in his words.


Apologists, too, must seek to persuade others of the truth of the gospel. This doesn’t mean manipulating or pressuring people into belief, but it does involve presenting the truth in a compelling and passionate way. When people see that an apologist truly believes what they are saying and that they are deeply invested in the truth, they are more likely to be open to persuasion.



Defended


Paul was also a skilled defender of the faith, constantly refuting objections and false teachings. In his letters, Paul frequently defended the truth of the gospel against distortions, such as the false teachings of the Judaizers (Galatians 1:6-9) or the Gnostic heresies that threatened the early church. He didn’t shy away from confrontation when it was necessary to protect the purity of the gospel.


For Christian apologists, defending the faith is a central part of their mission. The Bible calls believers to “contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3). This involves not only responding to objections but also refuting false teachings and protecting the integrity of the gospel message.


By studying the teaching methods of Jesus and Paul, Christian apologists can learn how to communicate the truth of the gospel in a way that is both effective and faithful to Scripture. Through active listening, clear explanations, logical reasoning, and a deep love for others, apologists can fulfill their calling to share the good news of Jesus Christ and answer the objections that arise in a world filled with questions.



About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220 books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).


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