Apologetics 315 Podcast

159 - Lazy Approach to Evangelism with Eric Hernandez

Apologetics 315 Podcast

Show Notes

Summary: In this episode, Brian and Chad talk with Christian apologist and evangelist **Eric Hernandez** about his book *The Lazy Approach to Evangelism: A Simple Guide for Conversing with Non-Believers*. Eric discusses how evangelism and apologetics intersect, why every believer is called to defend the faith, and how to engage with skeptics effectively and biblically.

Key Topics Covered: * Eric’s philosophy of evangelism and how apologetics fits into it * The danger of emotion-based evangelism vs. truth-based evangelism * Understanding “strongholds” (2 Corinthians 10) as false ideas that block people from knowing God * Identifying and addressing major worldviews: postmodernism, scientism, and naturalism * Paul’s example of adapting to the audience (1 Corinthians 9:20–23) * “The Lazy Approach”: asking the right questions instead of having all the right answers * The importance of theological triage—keeping the main thing the main thing * Understanding the **burden of proof**, **rebuttals vs. refutations**, and **logical fallacies** * Using Colossians 4:5–6 as a biblical foundation for gospel conversations * How Jesus modeled effective apologetics with both compassion and precision * Encouragement for Christians who feel intimidated by evangelism or apologetics * Why apologetics isn’t optional—it’s commanded and part of loving God with all your mind

Quotes: “If you’re not engaging in apologetics, you are in rebellious disobedience to the Word of God.” – Eric Hernandez 
“You don’t need to know all the right answers; you need to learn how to ask the right questions.” 
“Evangelism isn’t about winning arguments—it’s about tearing down strongholds.”

Mentioned in This Episode: * *The Lazy Approach to Evangelism* by Eric Hernandez * Previous Apologetics315 episode: *Eric Hernandez on the Soul* * Greg Koukl – *Tactics: A Game Plan for Discussing Your Christian Convictions* * J. Gresham Machen on false ideas as the greatest obstacles to the gospel * 1 Peter 3:15; 2 Corinthians 10:4–5; Colossians 4:5–6

Resources: * Book: *~[The Lazy Approach to Evangelism on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/)~* * Eric Hernandez’s YouTube Channel: ~[Eric Hernandez Ministries] * Support Eric’s Ministry: Details and updates available via his upcoming newsletter and website relaunch

Takeaway:
 Apologetics isn’t for specialists—it’s for every Christian. The “lazy” approach isn’t about being passive; it’s about being wise. Ask questions, listen well, keep the main thing the main thing, and let truth do the heavy lifting.

================================ We appreciate your feedback. If you’re on TWITTER, you can follow Chad @TBapologetics. You can follow Brian @TheBrianAuten And of course, you can follow @Apologetics315 If you have a question or comment for the podcast, record it and send it our way using www.speakpipe.com/Apologetics315 or you can email us at [email protected]

More from Apologetics 315 Podcast

Dec 12, 2025

🎙️ Show Notes: The Deity of Christ with Robert BowmanThis is a summary of the Apologetics 315 podcast episode featuring an interview with Rob Bowman. Bowman is the president of the Institute for Religious Research (IRR) in Cedar Springs, Michigan, and the author or co-author of 15 books on topics including apologetics, Christology, and the Trinity.This conversation, hosted by Brian Auten and Chad Gross , explores the evidence for the deity of Christ and how believers can be equipped to explain this core doctrine.🔑 Key Takeaways & Topics Guest Information: Rob Bowman is the president of the Institute for Religious Research (IRR) and has written or co-authored 15 books, including works on Christology and the Trinity. Book Focus: The discussion is based on two of Bowman's books:Putting Jesus in His Place: The Case for the Deity of Christ The Incarnate Christ and His Critics, a Biblical Defense

Oct 19, 2025

Guest: Braxton Hunter — President of Trinity College & Seminary, evangelist, apologist, host of Trinity Radio, debate partner with leading atheists including Matt Dillahunty and Dan Barker. Topics Covered

Jul 24, 2025

Summary In this episode, Brian Auten and Chad Gross welcome back philosopher and author **Peter S. Williams** to discuss his book, *Behold the Man: Essays on the Historical Jesus*. This engaging conversation explores the intersection of worldview, epistemology, and historical scholarship in the search for the real Jesus.

Jun 2, 2025

Summary Chad Gross interviews Dr. Christopher Cloos about the challenging Old Testament violence texts and his recent debate with theologian Randal Rauser. They explore the complexities of interpreting these texts, the role of moral intuition, and the contrasting views of covenant virtue ethics and providential errancy theory. The conversation delves into how moral intuitions can inform biblical interpretation while also addressing the potential pitfalls of subjectivity in understanding scripture. They explore how moral intuition can be used to interpret scripture, the implications of difficult passages, and the importance of engaging with differing views charitably. The conversation also highlights resources for further learning in this area.

See all episodes →