PRESENTATIONS | defendersconference

“The World, the Market, & the Gospel in Between” (Dr. Richard Martinez)
What did Jesus mean when He says that I can't serve God and "mammon" (money) at the same time? Does my business career put me outside of God's will? Or, is God specifically calling me to be salt and light in the marketplace? What does it mean to live out the gospel in the workplace? How can I present the living Christ to a dying world, and still earn a profit? Maybe it doesn't profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul...but can't I profit a little bit without losing my soul?

2010 - present

“Is the Bible a Reliable Foundation?" (Benjamin D. Hatch)
At a time of shifting ethical standards and moral chaos, people require a reliable source from which to draw social and cultural conclusions. As God’s inspired word, the Bible represents the sole legitimate framework for cultural norms. This talk will provide arguments for the historical and theological reliability of the Bible. Particular attention will be paid to archaeological and prophetic arguments for Biblical inspiration, as well as answering claims that the Biblical text has been corrupted in its transmission from ancient times to the present.

“Defending Christian Faith in Post-Christian Culture” (Dr. Paul R. Shockley)

In this presentation, we will look at several practical ways we can use apologetics in a post-Christian culture. We will focus on tactics and learn the art of readily answering and evaluating questions raised and statements given.

“You Become What You Behold” (Dr. Paul R. Shockley)
Our young people are surrounded by imagery. But sadly, much of the imagery does not correspond to reality. Thus, in an effort to embrace an identity that is provocative and popular, but consumer-centered and imaginary, many strive to become what is impossible in order to find purpose, meaning, and fulfillment. But because their efforts are in vain, the emptiness within remains. We will explore what this means and how Jesus Christ can meet our deepest needs for significance and value.

“Four Scientific Observations That Refute Evolution” (Brian Thomas)
At least half of Americans are unconvinced by the typical arguments for evolution, and they’re on the right track. And they certainly have not been told about these four scientific observations that each provides a profound scientific impasse for evolution.

“Secrets of Design in Human Reproduction” (Brian Thomas)
The world insists that humans evolved from ape-like ancestors merely by natural processes. A closer look at the design secrets of making the next generation clearly show that the world is wrong about human origins: People are made in the image of God.

“Israel: God’s Argument for God" (Kurt Wise)
Over the centuries, philosophers and apologists have put forth numerous arguments to demonstrate the existence of God and the truth of God’s word. But one argument for both has been offered by God Himself, and it concerns His people Israel. The evidence is clear: the history, thought, and culture of a tribe of desert nomads holds the key to demonstrating not only God’s existence, but also His interaction in the history of humanity.

“Have We Become Pagans?" (Kurt Wise)
What does the rising interest in superheroes, zombies, vampires, tattoos, and body piercings tell us about today’s American culture? Are these just passing fads or do they signal a change of worldviews in popular culture? Are the barbarians at the gate or are they in our hearts? We examine the cultural shift in America and evaluate its significance for the church.

“The Five C’s of Christianity and Culture" (Gerard A. Figurelli)
How is a Christian to think about their faith in terms of interaction with the culture? Should we adopt a militant posture of perpetual conflict, or opt instead for quiet conformity? Should we seek to connect with our culture or just hope to contain its influences? Should we even be concerned about cultural decay or just stick with “spiritual” things?

“Knowing the God the Culture No Longer Knows" (Gerard A. Figurelli)
A.W. Tozer reminds us that nothing is more important that what we think about God. Have our hearts and minds been captured by the unsurpassed truth of our unsurpassed God? Or, have we been allured into exchanging the glory of triune God for the lesser glory of the creation? This presentation will argue for the importance of truly knowing God and the urgency of declaring that truth beyond the walls of the church.