Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of "Days Then Apologize," Pastor Scott Hand tackles a common yet complex objection: "Isn't Christianity responsible for so many evils in the world?" This thought-provoking discussion delves into historical events often cited in these arguments, such as the Crusades, slavery, and supporting oppressive regimes. Pastor Hand provides a balanced perspective by acknowledging these dark chapters while also emphasizing the transformative and positive influences of Christianity throughout history.

With references to key resources like Rebecca McLaughlin's "Confronting Christianity" and Alvin Schmidt's "How Christianity Changed the World," Pastor Hand offers a well-researched defense. The episode underscores crucial points such as the logical fallacies often involved in these debates, the importance of evaluating the original teachings of Jesus, and the realization that violence is a human problem, not a religious one. By shifting the conversation to the inherent sinfulness of humanity, Pastor Hand guides listeners toward an understanding of the need for grace and redemption through Jesus Christ.

Key Takeaways:

Acknowledgment of Christianity's Dark History: Pastor Hand admits that Christians have committed evils, citing examples like the Crusades and slavery, while stressing this is not representative of authentic biblical teachings.

Logical Fallacies: He identifies common logical fallacies, such as hasty generalization and slothful induction, that often undermine arguments against Christianity.

Jesus' Teachings on Violence: Emphasizing the original teachings of Jesus, Pastor Hand points out that Christ advocated for non-violence, love, and forgiveness.

Universal Issue of Violence: The episode discusses how all major religions and even atheist regimes have histories of violence, framing it as a human rather than a religious problem.

Gospel-Centered Response: Pastor Hand uses historical evidence of human sinfulness to present the need for salvation through Jesus Christ, making a strong case for the transformative power of the Gospel.

Notable Quotes:

"The first thing we have to understand when dealing with this issue is that you have to say, yes, Christianity has a dark side. There is a bloody history to Christianity. There's no way around that."

"Help them to see that Jesus' teachings here completely contradict the actions of these people in human history."

"No other religion, philosophy, teaching, nation, movement, or whatever has so changed the world for the better as Christianity has done."

"It's not a particularly Christian problem, and it's not a particularly religious problem; it's a human problem."

"All human beings are sinners. All human beings have a sin problem, and all human beings need a Savior."

Resources:

Rebecca McLaughlin - Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest Religion

Alvin Schmidt - How Christianity Changed the World

Historian Robert Louis Wilken - Reference to insights on the Crusades, as cited in McLaughlin's book

Join us in this insightful episode as Pastor Scott Hand navigates through difficult questions about Christianity's past and explains how faith and reason can coalesce to address these objections. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from "Dazed & Apologized."