Apologetics
An "Apologetic" is a "formal defense" or "speech in defense." We are supposed to "defend" or present a case for what we believe using the Scriptures ("writings") and information we have at our disposal. We are to use God-given reason and logic to arrive at our conclusions. If you want to "debate" a topic and give a defense for what you believe, or you demand that I defend my claims, then I welcome you.
The topic we discuss will be posed as a question that we have to answer in our presentations. Whoever is “affirmative” will present their case first; the "negative" will present second; the turn order will follow accordingly.
Both sides must agree to the same date and time so that participants have a "reasonable amount of time" to prepare their statements.
Both sides must agree to the suggested format as outline below.
Both sides must agree that Zoom, Facebook Live, Youtube Livestream, or another platform that allows recording will be used. If the platform allows, we can have a 30-60 minute "Audience Question and Answer" period after Closing Statements. Otherwise, everything will be prerecorded. Moderators will be allowed to ask questions after Closing Statements. The footage will be uploaded.
Format
0. Introduction
Moderator introduces speakers
Speakers introduce themselves
Moderator introduces topic question
Moderator introduces/ explains format
1. Opening Statements (10 minutes total)
2. Rebuttals (10 minutes total)
Speaker 1: 5 minutes.
Speaker 2: 5 minutes.
3. Cross-Examination (16 minutes total)
Speaker 1 questions Speaker 2: 8 minutes.
Speaker 2 questions Speaker 1: 8 minutes.
4. Second Rebuttals (10 minutes total)
Speaker 1: 5 minutes.
Speaker 2: 5 minutes.
5. Closing Statements (10 minutes total)
Speaker 1: 5 minutes.
Speaker 2: 5 minutes.
6. Optional Audience Q/A (30-60 minutes)
*Each Speaker has an opportunity to give a short 1-2 minute direct answer or to pass (not answer).
*Moderators can also ask questions of both speakers.
Current Topic Questions of Interest
Understand that, at this time, these are the only topical questions I'm willing to debate or host.
- "Is Jesus 'God Almighty' in the Gospels?"
- "Is God A 'Trinity' of Persons in the Old Testament?"
- "Is Salvation by Grace through Faith Alone?"
- "Is Paul A Legitimate Apostle of the Lord Jesus?"
- "Must Gentiles Keep the Seventh Day Sabbath?"
Other Formats
The only other format I'm willing to consider is a "2 v. 2" format where each segment is longer so that both people on each side has a share of presenting information. For example, both sides in this format would have 10 minutes total for Opening Statements, with each person having 5 minutes to speak. Time length for each segment will reflect this.
Apply for Consideration
If seriously interested, please Email me with the suggested topic, date, and time. Also, please be ready to submit a "short bio" for introductions by the moderator if one can be secured.
Moderator Considerations
If you're interested in Moderating Debates, please understand your role. Your role is to be unbiased. Your role is to hold both side accountable regardless of your personal opinion on the topic being discussed. You must keep track of time for both speakers. You must read all questions clearly. You must not opine during the debate. Any questions you personally have must be asked at the end after Closing Statements.
If seriously interested, please Email me.