Includes bibliographical references and index.

Getting started : what is apologetics? -- Apologetics and contemporary culture : from modernity to postmodernity -- The theological basis of apologetics -- The importance of the audience : possibilities and issues -- The reasonableness of the Christian faith -- Pointers to faith : approaches to apologetic engagement -- Gateways for apologetics : opening the door to faith -- Questions about faith : developing approaches -- Conclusion: Developing your own apologetic approach.

"Throughout history there have been great and articulate defenders of the faith. But with the new challenges of scientific atheism we see in our day, there is a need for a fresh and flexible approach to apologetics. Rather than supplying the fine detail of every apologetic issue in order to win arguments, Mere Apologetics teaches a method that appeals not only to the mind but also to the heart and the imagination. After discussing the biblical basis for and historical uses of apologetics, McGrath offers various approaches to sharing your faith with others. He outlines pointers to faith, such as our innate sense of longing for justice, our appreciation for beauty, the order we see in the physical world, and much more. He also shows how there are many right ways to share your faith-through explanations, arguments, stories, and images-and helps you decide which works best for your personality and your audience.' Apologetics is not to be seen as a defensive and hostile reaction against the world,' says McGrath, 'but as a welcome opportunity to exhibit, celebrate, and display the treasure chest of the Christian faith.' If you long to commend your faith to those outside the church, Mere Apologetics will show you how to do so gracefully and effectively" -- Publisher description.