Christianity Contested: Replies to Critics’ Toughest Objections

by Paul Copan, Stewart E. Kelly (editor)

Although Christianity has significantly influenced many of Western civilization’s cherished ideals and values, it faces ongoing criticism regarding its truth, goodness, and beauty. Critics argue that Christianity is at odds with science, human flourishing, and the dignity of women; that it is disconnected from modern views on sexuality; and that its Scriptures support slavery and genocide. They also claim that the historical evidence for Jesus’ bodily resurrection is weak and his claims of exclusivity are narrow-minded. Additionally, the problem of evil and the hiddenness of God are major points of contention. In response, a group of scholars has provided a comprehensive, well-reasoned, yet accessible resource to address these accusations for both the church and the broader public.

444 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 1, 2025

About the author

Paul Copan is a Christian theologian, analytic philosopher, apologist, and author. He is currently a professor at the Palm Beach Atlantic University and holds the endowed Pledger Family Chair of Philosophy and Ethics.

From 1980-1984, he attended Columbia International University and earned a B.A. degree in biblical studies. Copan attended Trinity International University, where he received his M.A. in philosophy of religion, as well as his M.Div. at Trinity International. Copan received the Prof. C.B. Bjuge Award for a thesis that “evidences creative scholarship in the field of Biblical and Systematic Theology.”

In May 2000, Copan received his Ph.D. in philosophy of religion from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His dissertation topic was "The Moral Dimensions of Michael Martin’s Atheology: A Critical Assessment."

Reviews

[Diane Kurtz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say, this one came out of nowhere for me I don't remember adding it to my list, but something told me to give it a shot, and I'm really glad I did. What struck me most is how the contributors don't shy away from the hard stuff. They address the criticisms head-on without being defensive or dismissive, which is rare in books like this. The chapters on violence in the Old Testament and the problem of evil were especially eye-opening for me. It's the kind of book that respects the reader's intelligence while still being accessible enough for someone without a theology degree. I've already told a couple of friends about it, and I'll be passing my copy along. If you're looking for honest engagement with Christianity's toughest questions, this is well worth your time.

[James I. · Rating 4 out of 5]

What strikes me most about "Christianity Contested" is its refusal to dodge the hard questions. Too many apologetics books skim the surface, but this collection digs into the objections that actually keep people up at night the problem of evil, God's apparent silence, the messier passages of Scripture. Copan and Kelly have assembled contributors who write with clarity and intellectual honesty rather than defensiveness. I went in expecting a rehash of familiar arguments and came out with a genuinely fresh perspective. This is the rare book I'll be pressing into the hands of both believers and doubters alike.

[Florence B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christianity Contested" wasn't even on my radar until I stumbled across it recently, and I'm so glad I picked it up. Copan and Kelly bring together a strong lineup of scholars who tackle the toughest objections to Christianity head-on, from science and suffering to sexuality and the resurrection. It's substantive without being inaccessible, the kind of book you can hand to a skeptical friend or use to sharpen your own thinking. Well-organized, clearly argued, and genuinely thought-provoking. Definitely recommending this one to fellow readers.

[Nikki D · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really appreciated how this book takes on some of the hardest questions people have about Christianity without avoiding the uncomfortable topics. The arguments are thoughtful, but the writing is still easy enough to follow. What stood out to me most was the way the authors addressed issues like suffering, science, Scripture, and the resurrection. It gave me a lot to think about and challenged me to look at some familiar questions from a different perspective. Definitely worth reading, especially for anyone who has ever wrestled with doubts about Christianity.