The best apologetic works in defense of the Christian faith

There’s a reason this timeless classic continues to make the short list of meaningful works for those curious about the existence of a Creator. Like so many others, I enjoy C.S. Lewis's straight, relational style. His approach allows those who are testing new ideas to easily pull back the curtain and explore the reasons for faith in a God who loves His creatures enough to sacrifice Himself.

Lewis understandably wrestled with the horrific teaching of endless hell. Sadly, it seems he failed to arrive at the same conclusion as his mentor, George MacDonald, who correctly understood that all creatures would ultimately come to see the truth and be reconciled to God through Christ.

What basis is there for hope in the salvation of all? This book explores the possibility that Jesus may one day truly become “the Savior of All”―a view that many Christian literary works avoid or reject despite abundant evidence in its favor.

Jersak explores various views surrounding the topic of final judgment with clear and thoughtful objectivity. Many experts seem to want to impress―rather than inform―the reader, but this author’s accessible style conveys a powerful command of scripture and history in words most any reader can appreciate and benefit from.

As a former atheist, Lee Strobel is uniquely qualified to explore the question of theism. In his easy-to-follow style, the author presents compelling evidence that quashed his skepticism and led him to conclude that a Creator exists and that Jesus Christ is His manifestation to mankind.

This is a thorough and popular apologetic work. There is, however, one caveat: Strobel’s interpretation of Christ’s victory is far more narrow than other works on this list that, in my view, correctly acknowledge the ultimate reconciliation of all people to God through Jesus Christ. In short, while the Bible promises that Christ will ultimately and completely eradicate sin and death, Strobel’s works suggest endless conscious torment in hell awaits most of humanity.

First published in 1999, this book has since been heralded as required reading for anyone considering the possibility that God might save all of His creatures in the end. Talbott’s approach is humble and thorough, and, like any good book, the message is easily grasped by the interested reader. Drawing from a wealth of knowledge, he tests numerous salient scriptures and the history of their interpretation.

If God seems to be reacting to an out-of-control creation rather than proactively controlling the outcome to align with His perfect will, this book should be next on your list.

For those raised in church, questioning their faith can be daunting or even frightening. Some may feel they need permission to think differently. This book can offer a first step in challenging what they’ve been told all their lives. Bell does a great job of introducing the possibility that God just might be able to pull off a victory in the end―one in which every person that has ever existed can peacefully coexist with the Creator.

This book is ideal for those who aren’t yet ready to dive into, or don’t yet give much credence to, scripture. But if you're looking for solid evidence in support of the reconciliation of all―more than mere hope―you may want to reach for one of the other works on this list.