When making a comparison with any other system of belief, there is a temptation to declare that all truth is relative and that all belief systems are equally valid. A postmodern parable about blind men and an elephant is often used to perpetuate this myth of relativism. It goes like this: a blind man walks up to an elephant, caresses the trunk, and concludes the elephant is a serpent. Another blind man, feeling the legs, concludes it's a tree. Another, with his hands to its sturdy side, deduces that the elephant is actually a wall. Supposedly, all religions are like these blind men feeling different parts of God, and each is true in its own way. Yet, the principal assumption of apologetics is that there is a binary reality of truth and falsity, and that this reality is knowable. In other words, that we are not completely blind, but “we see in a mirror dimly.” (1 Corinthians 13:12) It is the myth of the elephant — and with it, relativism — that this workbook ultimately dispels.
 
Whereas Workbook One dealt primarily with defining who God is, what Christianity teaches, and how we can trust the Scriptures, Workbook Two deals primarily with relating Christianity to real world scenarios and comparing it with alternative worldviews. By contrasting Christianity with other prominent religions, students learn that the Bible offers the best explanation of reality. In the areas where all other belief systems fall through on their core promises, students see that, in Christ alone, the only perfect hope is found. The Christian, properly-equipped, can then remark that others are blind because they follow blind guides. (Matthew 15:14) Jesus, however, came to heal them. “Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'” (John 8:12) The study of apologetics equips students to know the truth that will set them free, so they can help emancipate others. They will learn how atheism lacks an answer to morality and a foundation for science and reason. They will learn that nearly all religions — from the most radical anti-god position to the all-inclusive god of pantheism — pursue the same temptation uttered by Satan in the garden: “Ye shall be as gods.” (Gen 3:5) To reclaim a right relationship with our Creator, it is necessary to move beyond the milk of foundational precepts onto the solid food of worldview application and comparison. It's our hope that the great works herein contained will aid you in doing exactly that.
 
Each workbook is considered 1 full high school credit in Theology/Apologetics. Students who compete in Apologetics, or deliver speeches in real world scenarios may receive honors credit.
 
Key Features: 
Dinner Discussion questions for parents
Key Scripture with suggestions for memorization
Recommended Reading
Thought Questions
Ideas to Ponder (quotes From iconic thinkers related to the topic)
Additional online resources, including a printable template for Apologetics competition
 
Note to Stoa Competitors: Workbook Two covers the 42 topics in categories 4-6 of Stoa Apologetics, focusing on the relationship between God and man, Christian worldview application and comparison with other worldviews. The workbook is laid out in a 30-week guide to be completed over the course of one school year. The average week covers 1–2 topics. The truly adventurous or advanced competitor may consider combining Workbook 1 and Workbook 2 in the same year. Note that it would average 2–4 topics per week on the one-year fast track. The consumable workbook is an 8.5×11 perfect bound workbook intended to be used to complete the invention stage of each Apologetics topic.