Why Christianity Makes Sense
A Book About Jesus, the Mysteries of the World, and the Longings in Your Heart

Quotes

'Gavin Ortlund has earned a reputation as one of the clearest and calmest communicators of complex and contested ideas. In Why Christianity Makes Sense, he brings those gifts to the biggest question of all: the intellectual and emotional case for Christianity in doubting times. This is a book for readers who are unsure what to make of the world's largest faith. Avoiding simplistic apologetics, Ortlund invites readers not to a leap of faith but to little steps in the right direction. I read every page and loved it.' John Dickson, Jean Kvamme Distinguished Professor, Wheaton College, author, Bullies and Saints

'Gavin Ortlund has lined up the most powerful arguments for the existence of God and the truth of the Christian faith, showing that belief in a Creator and the God-man Jesus Christ is not a blind leap of faith but a journey of reason itself. Writing in clear and compelling prose, Ortlund shows that Christianity offers satisfaction for *both* the head and the heart.' John Bergsma, professor of theology, Franciscan University of Steubenville

'Gavin Ortlund has shown himself to be a sensitive as well as rigorous defender of the Christian faith. In this book, he draws together a wide array of historical and philosophical arguments, making a case that is not only intellectually serious but deeply attentive to the longings of the human heart. This is an important and distinctive contribution to contemporary Christian apologetics.' William Lane Craig, president, Reasonable Faith

'Gavin Ortlund has written a lucid, lively, and generous case for Christianity's intellectual and existential plausibility. This is not a book that merely answers questions; it asks better ones, gently drawing readers toward the ache beneath their doubts and desires. For Christians looking for something to give to a thoughtful non-Christian friend, for culturally Christian readers wondering whether the faith still makes sense, or for anyone beginning to investigate Christianity for themselves, this is a splendid place to start.' Chris Watkin, associate professor of European languages, Monash University, author, Biblical Critical Theory

'Gavin Ortlund maintains an appealing balance in this book between the intellectual and the existential, appealing to both reason and the imagination. Ortlund cites both the classics and very recent academic research, including the best advocates and the best critics of Christian theism. The book spans a broad range, from metaphysics and cosmology to history and moral experience. I was especially pleased to find a rich discussion of messianic prophecy, a crucial piece of evidence.' Robert Koons, professor of philosophy, University of Texas at Austin, author, Realism Regained

'I can think of no better companion on the journey of exploring Christianity than Gavin Ortlund. This book transforms daunting questions into a friendly invitation to learn more.' Molly Worthen, professor of history, University of North Carolina, author, Spellbound

'In an era marked by widespread secular skepticism, this book offers a thoughtful and engaging defense of foundational Christian truths, such as the existence of God and the divinity and resurrection of Jesus Christ. While questions concerning the fullness of Christian doctrine and sacramental life lie beyond its scope, readers of goodwill will find here a serious invitation to reconsider widespread but unfounded prejudices against Christianity and to reflect more deeply on the enduring significance of these truths.' Rev. Dr. Demetrios Bathrellos, associate professor of theology, Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

'Savvy and astute, full of insights and wisdom, here's a concise and compelling spiritual journey toward meaning, purpose, and fulfillment. Follow the clues with Gavin Ortlund and let him guide you toward an enduring hope. This book is where the heart meets the mind and where the soul finds its Answer.' Lee Strobel, New York Times bestselling author of The Case for Christ and Is God Real?

'With a philosophical approach that invites but doesn't overwhelm the beginner, Ortlund aims to reenchant our view of the world. He succeeds.' Timothy Pawl, professor of philosophy, University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, Minnesota