Best 7 Apologetics books for beginners
If you're new to Christian apologetics and seeking the best apologetics books for beginners, this curated list of 7 essential books will help you build a strong, reasoned foundation for your faith.
Christian apologetics is the rational defense of the Christian faith. It uses logic, evidence, philosophy, history, and science to answer objections and show Christianity's truth. These “beginner” books are accessible to those without a theological background, which will help you better understand the rationale behind questions about the existence of God, the reliability of the Bible, the resurrection of Jesus, and the problem of evil.
Remember, the primary goal of apologetics is to remove barriers to faith, not force or argue someone into believing; they have to come to their own decision. And remember, sometimes the best defense of your faith is your personal story, which can supplement the logical and rational arguments of apologetics.
Christian apologetics books are often written for academics instead of “regular” Christians, and it can be difficult to know where to start. Here’s our list of often-recommended Christian apologetics books for beginners.
Best 7 Christian apologetic books for beginners
1. ‘Mere Christianity’ by C.S. Lewis
“Mere Christianity” by C.S. Lewis is a classic Christian apologetics book that’s ideal for beginners, considering its history. After WWII, Lewis was invited to give a series of talks on Christianity. The war-weary nation was seeking meaning, and Lewis’s talks provided hope, a morale boost, and, more importantly, a rational explanation of faith — serving to remind Christians of what they believe and why they believe it. His talks became the basis for the book, which presents clear and logical arguments that are free of jargon. “Mere Christianity” is an ideal starting point for apologetics.
2. ‘The Case for Christ’ by Lee Strobel
“The Case for Christ” by Lee Strobel is a modern classic in Christian apologetics that’s ideal for beginners, considering its origins. As a former atheist and award-winning journalist, Strobel initially set out to disprove Christianity after his wife’s conversion. His investigative journey led him to interview leading experts on the historical evidence for Jesus, unexpectedly strengthening his skepticism into belief. These interviews became the basis for the book, which reads like a gripping legal case with accessible evidence. Our editor often recommends “The Case for Christ,” as it’s the apologetics book she first read — and she’s since devoured Strobel’s “Case for” series.
3. ‘I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist’ by Norman Geisler and Frank Turek
“I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist” by Norman Geisler and Frank Turek is a comprehensive yet approachable apologetics book ideal for beginners, considering its structured approach. The authors developed it from talks delivered at universities, colleges, churches, and high schools across America. Students and skeptics challenged common objections, prompting a step-by-step roadmap from truth to the resurrection. These talks evolved into the book, building arguments progressively without overwhelming novices. It’s an ideal starting point, especially for high school seniors and college students.
4. ‘Tactics’ by Greg Koukl
“Tactics” by Greg Koukl is a practical Christian apologetics book that’s ideal for beginners, considering its real-world focus. Koukl, hosting a radio show, fielded countless questions on defending faith gracefully. Years of conversations revealed the need for simple, non-confrontational strategies instead of heated or high-brow debates. These insights became the basis for Koukl’s book, which teaches readers how to take a question-based “tactics” for everyday discussions. It’s ideal for Christians who want to develop confidence in discussing beliefs.
5. ‘Cold-Case Christianity’ by J. Warner Wallace
“Cold-Case Christianity” by J. Warner Wallace is an engaging apologetics book for beginners, considering the author’s unique background as a cold-case homicide detective and former atheist. While attending church with his wife, the pastor described Jesus as "the smartest man in history," piquing Wallace’s curiosity. Intrigued, he bought a Bible and began to investigate the Gospels, treating them as eyewitness accounts, using the same skills he’d honed as a detective. What he discovered was compelling evidence for Christianity’s reliability, transforming his skepticism into belief. “Cold-Case Christianity” is presented as a detective’s case file with visuals, making it an accessible and approachable book to begin your own exploration. Wallace has also written a children’s version, “Cold-Case Christianity for Kids.”
6. ‘The Reason for God’ by Timothy Keller
“The Reason for God” by Timothy Keller is a thoughtful apologetics book that wrestles with tough theological questions. Keller served as a pastor in New York City, where he intentionally engaged skeptical young professionals by creating a welcoming environment for doubt and by addressing concerns. Keller frequently held Q&A sessions after Sunday services, fielding questions such as, "How can there be one true religion?" "How could a loving God allow suffering?" and "How has Christianity caused so much injustice?" These conversations became the basis for the book, which is an ideal starting point for young professionals.
7. ‘On Guard’ by William Lane Craig
“On Guard” by William Lane Craig presents a clear argument for Christianity. Craig wrote it at the urging of his wife, Jan, who saw the need for a more accessible introduction to apologetics than Craig’s denser “Reasonable Faith,” which was academically minded. (Craig holds a PhD in Philosophy from the University of Birmingham, as well as a doctorate in theology from the University of Munich.) After a while, Craig “On Guard” with a popular audience in mind, distilling key apologetics arguments with illustrations and study aids. It’s considered a training manual for the everyday defense of faith.
‘Faith Storytellers’ by Mackenzie Ryan Walters
While not an apologetics book, “Faith Storytellers” by Mackenzie Ryan Walters is an essential guide to crafting a personal testimony, an essential skill for anyone interested in bridging the conversation between theology and personal belief. A national award-winning journalist, Walters was hosting a live storytelling night that included two Christian stories of miracles. She noticed how many people in the secular audience leaned forward and seemed hungry for more, which prompted her to share her knowledge, crafting a high-quality story.
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Looking for other Christian book recommendations?
➡️ Check out our comprehensive list of Christian apologetics books
➡️ Don’t miss our guide to the best Christian testimony books
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