Why Apologetics Is Failing—and What Augustine Knew That We Forgot

Modern apologetics is losing its grip on culture - but what if Augustine, writing during Rome’s collapse, already solved our biggest evangelism challenges?

In this episode of Remnant Radio, Joshua Lewis explores why traditional Christian apologetics is failing to connect with our post-Christian culture. Joined by scholars Josh Chatraw and Mark D. Allen, authors of Apologetics at the Cross: An Introduction to Christian Witness, we uncover how Augustine’s methods during Rome’s collapse may provide answers for our current cultural challenges.

Key topics include: • Why rational arguments alone aren’t enough anymore • Augustine’s pastoral approach to cultural engagement • Addressing expressive individualism in evangelism • Converting hearts in a skeptical age • Practical strategies for modern apologetics • Learning from early church wisdom

Whether you’re a pastor seeking to reach your community, an evangelist adapting to cultural shifts, or simply interested in effective Christian witness, this episode provides crucial insights for sharing faith in today’s world. Discover how Augustine’s ancient wisdom might be the key to modern evangelism.

00:00 – Introduction
08:00 – Augustine’s World & Ours
15:00 – Cultural Apologetics Explained
20:30 – Enlightenment’s Impact on Apologetics
26:20 – Augustine’s Method of Engagement
31:00 – Sin as Idolatry, Not Just Lawbreaking
43:00 – Worship and Desire in Evangelism
48:40 – Apologetics and Control
54:00 – Gospel in a Therapeutic Age
59:00 – Asking Good Questions
1:04:00 – Pastoral Wisdom from Augustine
1:09:00 – Final Reflections

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