Sunday, August 09, 2009

Greg Bahnsen’s Presuppositional Apologetics

Posted by James Grant

Dr. Greg Bahnsen (1948-1995) is considered by many to be one of the best apologists to defend the concept of presuppositionalism. His debate with Gordon Stein is a powerful example of the strength of the presuppositional argument, and his book Van Til's Apologetic: Readings and Analysis is considered to be a definitive volume on Van Til.

Joel McDurmon has edited a new book that is based on a manuscript from Dr. Bahnsen that was considered lost until recently. The book is published by P&R and is entitled, Presuppositional Apologetics: Stated and Defended (314 pages). This is new content that has not previously been published. The first part (130 pages) is a positive case for presuppositional apologetics. Bahnsen analyzes issues related to the Christian mind, apologetic method, neutrality, and autonomy. The second part (132 pages) examines those who critiqued presuppositionalism: Gordon Clark, Edward J. Carnell, and Francis Schaeffer. Here is an endorsement from John Frame:

“This book is an important part of the historical record. It is authentic Bahnsen, vintage Bahnsen. It displays brilliantly his intellectual gifts and his devotion to the Lordship of Christ in all areas of life. Despite my differences with Bahnsen, I revere him yet today as a great blessing of God to the church and as one of the most brilliant apologists I have known. He seeks to set forth the comprehensive lordship of Christ over the human mind as over everything else, and he does that effectively. In that goal, we should all be in agreement, and we should seek Bahnsen’s help to become more consistent in our commitment to the Lord. So I commend this book to all who seek to think God’s thoughts after him.”

You can purchase it here, as well as view some sample pages.