Christians are called not only to know what they believe, but to understand why they believe it. On this special edition of Family Talk, Dr. James Dobson sits down with a remarkable panel of Christian thinkers and apologists including Lee Strobel, Josh McDowell, Dr. Frank Turek, Dr. Erwin Lutzer, Alex McFarland, Dr. David Noebel and Dr. Gary Habermas to examine the historical and intellectual case for Christianity. The discussion begins with the reliability of Scripture. Josh McDowell explains how historians evaluate ancient documents and discusses the manuscript evidence supporting the New Testament, asking two fundamental questions: do the Scriptures available today accurately reflect what was originally written, and can what was written be trusted historically? Lee Strobel then turns to the resurrection of Jesus, discussing the empty tomb, eyewitness testimony and the early Christian creed recorded by the Apostle Paul. Strobel, who approached Christianity as a skeptical journalist, explains why he believes the resurrection provides powerful historical evidence supporting Jesus’ claims. Frank Turek adds what historians call the “principle of embarrassment,” pointing to details in the New Testament that would have been unlikely additions if the writers were attempting to invent a more flattering story about themselves. The panel also examines the relationship between Christianity and science, the uniqueness of Christianity among world religions and the importance of giving young Christians credible answers before they encounter challenges to their faith in high school and college. But apologetics is not treated as purely intellectual. Several panelists emphasize that doubt can also have emotional and relational roots. The conversation explores how relationships within the family — particularly the example parents provide their children — can shape a young person’s understanding of God and willingness to seriously consider the truth claims of Christianity. Dr. Erwin Lutzer also addresses claims popularized by The Da Vinci Code, including assertions about the Council of Nicaea, the deity of Christ and the Gnostic Gospels. He explains why understanding early church history can help Christians respond when fictional or popular accounts are presented as historical fact. The central message is simple: believers should be prepared to give thoughtful answers for the hope they have. Faith does not require abandoning reason. Christians can study the historical evidence, ask difficult questions and help the next generation develop a faith grounded in both truth and relationship. Learn more about Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk, listen to additional programs and explore family…
