Podcast Episode 16 with Eli Ayala

The transcript is from a podcast episode of Bibles and Bullhorns, hosted by Jonathan Morris and Jon Neifert with their guest, Eli Ayala from Revealed Apologetics. The discussion centers around presuppositional apologetics, a method of defending the Christian faith by arguing that belief in God is necessary to make sense of reality.

Key Points:

Presuppositional Apologetics: This approach argues that all reasoning should begin with the authority of Christ and Scripture. It contrasts with evidential and classical apologetics, which build up to God’s existence using empirical or rational arguments.
Comparison with Other Apologetics: Classical apologetics (like William Lane Craig’s cosmological argument) uses a “bottom-up” method to argue for God’s existence, while presuppositional apologetics is a “top-down” approach, assuming God’s existence from the start.
Scripture and Apologetics: The podcast explores whether Scripture teaches that all people inherently know God but suppress the truth (Romans 1). Ayala argues that unbelievers are self-deceived, living inconsistently with their stated beliefs.
Engaging with Non-Believers: The importance of asking good questions and uncovering hidden assumptions in conversations with atheists, Muslims, Mormons, and others is emphasized.
Challenges in Apologetics: Online debates are often more hostile than in-person discussions. YouTube atheists are identified as particularly challenging to engage with due to their dismissive attitudes.
Evangelism Strategy: Apologetics is a tool within evangelism, not separate from it. The goal is not just intellectual debate but pointing people to Christ.
Eli Ayala’s Background: Raised in a Spanish Pentecostal church, he developed a passion for apologetics after being challenged in college. He was particularly influenced by Greg Bahnsen’s debate with Gordon Stein.
New Partnership with Apologia Studios: Ayala discusses his recent collaboration with Apologia Studios, which will help expand his reach in apologetics.

Takeaways:

• Apologetics is not just about winning arguments but revealing the inconsistencies in unbelieving worldviews.
• Effective evangelism requires both listening and strategic questioning.
• Conversations about faith are most fruitful when conducted with humility and respect.

The episode concludes with an encouragement to share the gospel and a reminder of the upcoming Tulip Time Outreach event where Ayala will participate.