First, because it is right to do so. … Jude says we must “contend earnestly for the faith” ( Jude 1:3). Peter urges an answer be given to any who ask about our faith ( I Peter 3:15), and Paul never hesitated to engage in clear discussion of what was right and what was wrong (see Acts 17:2ff, 28:17ff). A debate is nothing more than a special means of teaching the truth. As Christians we should look for every opportunity to teach the truth, debates included. Second, because it is helpful to do so. A debate allows both sides of an issue to be heard, and weaknesses in a position to be clearly demonstrated. In short, truth can shine brightly in the crucible of controversy. I believe one of the reasons that so few debates are conducted today is because many are too cowardly to defend their false views, knowing that in debate the truth would crush their pet error. ... Third, because debates say truth is important. Rather than just join the “you have your truth and I have mine” crowd a debate says “There is objective truth, let’s find it.” … Of what use are the spineless who will agree with everything and stand for nothing?

Home