In his book Tactics, Greg Koukl gives a very definite pattern of how to engage someone about one’s faith. Koukl breaks up the idea of the book into two sections: The Game Plan and Finding The Flaws. In each chapter, he develops the idea of a tactical, non-confrontational, non-offensive apologetic way to maneuver effortlessly in conversation with a variety of individuals. This process keeps the engager in the driver's seat becoming an effective ambassador for Christ in the process. Koukl’s no-nonsense approach gives people the freedom to share their faith in a manner that doesn’t seem forced or contrived. As he puts it, it is not about always “sealing the deal” but sometimes about just putting a pebble in the shoe of the listener to start them thinking. The tactics discussed here create a safe and level playing field for both the ambassador and nonbeliever. The Columbo Tactic is a straightforward and unforced maneuver that helps people interact without feeling like they are being steamrolled or caught in a conversation with no exit.
Accurately following these tactics will prevent one from misdirecting or forcing the issue. By asking “what do you mean by that?” one can allow them to feel heard without manipulation or coercion. Tactics is helpful on all levels of conversations from the everyday conversation in the grocery store or on the airplane to a deeper academic discussion on a campus. Koukl shows us that not all arguments are worth engaging in, and some commit suicide simply by pressing them in real-life application. Most importantly this book demonstrates to the reader that with a little practice and good listening skills a person can become an effective ambassador for Christ.
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