Monergism Interview with Tim Keller

There are several more recent interviews of Tim Keller available but I thought I would pass along this one that Monergism did with him last year.  At the time, his book The Reason for God was out and the interview was conducted in light of that book which is a winsome, reasoned defense of the Christian faith.  I actually have only read a small portion of the book (need to bump it up to the top of my reading list!) but am nearly done listening to the sermons he preached that gave form to the book.  I highly recommend the audio and a ton of people recommend the book.  I’ve benefited from his ministry and would encourage others to check him out.

Go to the interview

Several things stood out to me in the interview.

1) Keller’s answer to question #4:

When you field questions from skeptics what is the first thing you are looking for in their question?

I want to be able to understand it well enough that, when I articulate it back to them, they feel I have said it better and more persuasively than they could have.

I think we show much respect and care for the other person (1 Peter 3:15, see my previous post) when we are able to understand and effectively restate the question (insert “statement”, “argument” or “conviction”  as well).  Most people want to know that they are being heard and understood, especially when it comes to religi0us convictions.  He actually sets the bar pretty high in desiring to say it “better and more persuasively than they could have”.

2) The tone and overall nature of his answers.  The way he answers objections here (and in the book and audio) is one based on addressing the other person’s presuppositions.  This is an approach that is not often enough employed in my estimation when defending and sharing the gospel.

3) His answer to question #10.  Reminded me that I’ve been wanting to renew my subscription to Time and Newsweek!

4) He recommends John Frame’s books.  I haven’t read any of Frame’s books yet but his free seminary courses on audio and papers have been very helpful.  I’m very much an audio freak in case anyone was wondering.