Point: An important aspect of Presuppositional Apologetics is that is shaped by Biblical doctrines. The implication of what the Bible teaches are drawn towards apologetics. Typically most teaching series on Presuppositional Apologetics will devote some time to talk about what does the Bible teach about area such as revelation, God’s attributes, doctrine of sin, salvation, etc. Yet some listeners can get impatient. Some may think Presuppositional Apologetics is just about what does the Bible say about unbelief (it is that, but its more than that, and it does defend truth and refute error). Can we give an analogy to help listeners be patient, and to not give up with an apologetics that seem to ascend into theology?
Picture: I was in the Marines when I first saw a Javelin anti-tank system fired. Back then for us it was a new weapon; I remember being told it was super expensive and our infantry Battalion only had a few of them on hand for our deployment. The first time I saw it fired I thought it missed; that’s because once fired the projectile goes upward. See for yourself these training videos (no one is hurt):
The missile goes upward for a reason. For those impatient as I was when I was in the Marines when I first saw it fired in Iraq it looks like its is missing when in actuality it is ascending high to come back down and hit a tank from the top where it is most vulnerable.
I think Presuppositional Apologetics in laying out biblical doctrine is also “ascending” towards heavenly truth so that when the critique comes down it is with devastating refutation with the contrasts between a Christian worldview and an unbiblical worldview. If I could have a pun, there’s a “transcendental” weapon with Presuppositional Apologetics.
POSSIBLE SCENARIO FOR EMPLOYING THIS ILLUSTRATION DURING APOLOGETIC EVANGELISM
NON-CHRISTIAN: Stop bringing up theology. I don’t believe it. Its upsetting me.
CHRISTIAN: I know you reject the Bible. But I want to lay out what I believe which I am defending as a system, as a worldview.
NON-CHRISTIAN: That’s irrational. Again please refute or agree with what I said.
CHRISTIAN: I do want to respond with what I said but I also want to show you that our beliefs matter; my beliefs in Christianity is an abductive and transcendental argument for Christianity since the Biblical worldview provides the precondition for intelligibilty and meaning. Have you heard of the Javelin anti-tank weapon before? Here let me show you a video. Do you think this weapon is missing or doing something when it seems to not fly directly to the target?
NON-CHRISTIAN: Its doing something.
CHRISTIAN: Likewise be patient with me; I’m laying down things to make a point; and ultimately an argument.
The Domain for Truth 
Great illustration!
Thanks!!! I am praying for the lesson soon!!! Appreciate all your ministry!!!
Thank you for the opportunity!!!!
Great analogy brother!
Shalom!
Great illustration. Thanks!
Thank you!!! Have a blessed weekend sister!!! Appreciate the love and support, tonight I’ll be on your blog quite a bit with late night studies and hearing the worship songs on your blog!!
Same to you and your family! 🎶🎶🎶🙌🙌🙌 Glory to God!
What a coincidence. I watched that same video on YouTube a couple of weeks ago. I was curious to see what the U.S. was sending the Ukrainians. That’s some amazing technology unless you’re in the tank.
Oh, and good analogy!
Wow you saw the video beforehand? Makes sense since Javelins have been on the news. Back in 2003 for the Marines it was such a new weapon though I know the Army had it before for years before the Marines. I remember they stressed to us it was very expensive and I think there was some respect given to the guys who operated them in our heavy weapons company. How is your shift going for today, Saturday?
Good analogy!
Thanks RG! Is your procedure coming up or already? Still praying for you
It’s scheduled for the 7th, but I go in to be prepped on the 5th. Thanks for asking, Jim! It’s a bit scary.
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Good analogy, Pastor Jim. I’ve recently seen how javelins work and it’s exactly as you describe it. I think the U.S. military is sending a good many more of them to help the Ukrainians.
I have always liked apologetics, and when I have time, I pick out the most interesting looking one in your posts. I appreciate your efforts.
God’s blessings…
Wow sounds like you have been really following the news with Ukraine. The conflict has made Javelins a household word it seems. Thanks for reading my apologetics posts when you have the time, even just reading one I’m touched and encouraged. Blessings to you for your Monday Chris!
I have been trying to follow the news in the Ukraine but it is very difficult to figure out what is fact and what is fiction. One day it sounds like the Ukrainians are holding their own and the next day it sounds like nothing but despair. Lately, some of the news seems clearer and as time goes along I’m sure we will get a better picture of what is actually happening over there. Until then, I will continue to keep them (and the Russians who have no interest in this conflict) in my prayers.
Thanks for your kind words, Pastor Jim. May you have a blessed Monday as well!
I hope the Ukrainians get more of these weapons
This is a powerful analogy. Studying apologetics: patience needed
An excellent weapon. Highly recommended, I wish I can add it to my ever-growing wishlist!
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This definitely is an analogy to sell Presuppositionalism to believers
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Another current event driven analogy! I enjoy it
Reblogged this on Talmidimblogging.
Van Til’s Apoogetics= Javelins weapons system
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