Gospel Conversations: A practical and pastoral resource

Marcus Luckett (William Booth College) reviews Gospel Conversations: Building Confidence through Christian Apologetics by Phil Layton.

Major Phil Layton sets out give Christians the confidence to engage in meaningful conversations about faith. Recognising that apologetics alone is not evangelism but a partner in the process, the book frames apologetics not as a battle to be won, but as a tool to clear the way.

Layton begins with the concept of truth, grounding the reader in a clear understanding of why truth matters. This is an important consideration, especially in a time when we hear so much about alternative facts and the post-truth age.

Each subsequent chapter opens with a scenario that introduces a central question and aim. The chapters end with ‘putting it together’ sections that help consolidate the learning.

Layton then offers memory aids and mnemonics to help the reader recall key points during conversations.

What makes this book especially useful for Salvationists is its focus on real-life engagement.

Layton reminds us that apologetics can be a tool for our own growth and formation.

Layton doesn’t shy away from difficult questions around suffering and evil. And he does not dismiss the questions with glib answers. Rather, Layton models humility, insisting we must first respond as humans to other humans.

The logical structure of his arguments is clear, but not cold. He scaffolds thinking in a way that builds understanding without overwhelming. He’s generous with references, providing a well-rounded view of Christian thought, and the resource list details books, videos and websites to explore the topics in further depth.

Importantly, Layton reminds us that apologetics can be a tool for our own growth and formation. Indeed, Layton ends the book with how apologetics winds itself into his own testimony.

Gospel Conversations is a practical and pastoral resource. It will whet the appetite for deeper study but, more importantly, it will help provide the confidence Salvationists need to speak the truth with gentleness and grace in a world that needs both.