(SIS S1 E6) Pulpit Apologist (w. Dr. Thomas J. Gentry)

By: Brian G. Chilton and Curtis Evelo | August 1, 2021

Through the summer, the Bellator Christi Podcast features a new series entitled the “Summer Interview Series” which engages the top Christian scholars and experts in their chosen fields. On the sixth episode of the series, we speak to Dr. Thomas J. Gentry (T. J. Gentry) about a book he recently published titled The Pulpit Apologist: The Vital Link Between Preaching and Apologetics. Dr. Gentry approaches the topic of pulpit apologetics as both a scholar, holding 5 doctorate degrees and 6 masters degrees, and a pastor, serving at First Christian Church in West Frankfort, IL. Dr. Gentry notes the critical importance that apologetics holds to modern preaching, evangelism, and discipleship. Using the book of Jude as a backdrop, he describes how apologetics is everyone’s responsibility and not just that of academia.

Additionally, the August 2021 Night Sky Report is found at the end of this episode.

What is the aim of your book “Pulpit Apologist” and who is your target audience?
How can apologetics help preaching?
In chapter one, you mention apologetics and evangelism. You also discuss the “word and deed” approach. What is the word and deed approach and how might this help apologetic focused evangelism?
You also note finding common ground with the skeptic. In a post-everything culture, how do we find common ground?
In chapter two, you note the relationship between apologetics and discipleship, giving special attention to Jude. What things can be found in Jude that helps our understanding of the relationship between apologetics and discipleship?
In chapter three, you note the importance of moral apologetics. How can moral apologetics assist the pulpit apologetics? Additionally, can you describe the importance of moral apologetics in general?
Can you describe the abductive approach, how it differs from the inductive and deductive approach, and the usefulness of the abductive approach?
Can you describe the STEPS approach that you offer in the last chapter?
Pastors and churches face numerous obstacles. Do you hold out hope for the American church? If so, what word of encouragement can you offer our listener?

About our Guest: Dr. Thomas J. Gentry

Dr. Thomas J. Gentry (aka., TJ Gentry) serves as the pastor of First Christian Church of West Frankfort, Illinois and serves as the Executive Editor of MoralApologetics.com. Dr. Gentry is a world-class scholar holding 5 doctorate degrees and 6 masters degrees. He is a regular contributor at MoralApologetics.com. Additionally, he is a prolific writer as he has published 7 books including “Pulpit Apologist,” “Absent from the Body, Present with the Lord,” and “You Shall Be My Witnesses: Reflections on Sharing the Gospel.” Be on the lookout for two additional books that he will soon publish. In addition to his impressive resume, Dr. Gentry proudly served his country as an officer in the United States Army. He is also a martial arts expert.

Brian Chilton: Founder of Bellator Christi Ministries

Brian G. Chilton is the founder of BellatorChristi.com, the host of The Bellator Christi Podcast, the author of the Layman’s Manual on Christian Apologetics, and a Ph.D. Candidate of the Theology and Apologetics program at Liberty University. He received his Master of Divinity in Theology from Liberty University (with high distinction); his Bachelor of Science in Religious Studies and Philosophy from Gardner-Webb University (with honors); and received certification in Christian Apologetics from Biola University. Brian is a member of the Evangelical Theological Society and the Evangelical Philosophical Society. Brian has served in pastoral ministry for nearly 20 years and currently serves as a clinical chaplain, an editor for the Eleutheria Journal, and an Associate Editor for MoralApologetics.com.

https://www.amazon.com/Laymans-Manual-Christian-Apologetics-Essentials/dp/1532697104

Curtis Evelo: Co-Host and Producer of the Bellator Christi Podcast

Curtis Evelo is a cattle rancher at the E6 Hereford Ranch in St. Ignatius, Montana. Curtis is the Co-Host and Producer of the Bellator Christi Podcast. He often teaches and speaks at his church Cornerstone Faith Center in St. Ignatius. Curtis provides a common-sense approach to Christianity as he contemplates the wonders of God’s creation in Big Sky Country.

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