#82: Responding with Gentleness & Respect
Two months ago, I discussed how to defend the reliability of Scripture. At times, we must respond to questions or criticisms, and our ability to reference both biblical and extra-biblical sources and make logical arguments are essential to affirming the Bible’s credibility as a spiritual as well as historical document.
This month, I highlight a powerful real-life example of how to respond to such challenges.
This past spring, journalist Piers Morgan [1] interviewed Wes Huff, a young Christian scholar and Vice President of Apologetics Canada [2]. Huff holds degrees from York University and Tyndale University and is pursuing a PhD in New Testament studies at Wycliffe College, University of Toronto. He recently gained recognition after an impressive debate with a prominent skeptic. [3]
In the interview, Morgan posed a series of “rapid-fire” questions about Jesus, the New Testament, and Christianity, in general. To Morgan’s credit, he did not interrupt Huff and gave him time to respond. Among Morgan’s questions were:
• Is it indisputable that Jesus Christ existed?
• What hard evidence supports the resurrection?
• Doesn’t the unreliability of eyewitness testimony undermine the Gospels?
• Why should anyone believe if even some of Jesus’ disciples doubted?
• How do you explain apparent inconsistencies about Jesus being both the Son of God and God Himself?
• What do you say to atheists like Ricky Gervais who argue that belief in one God is no more reasonable than belief in thousands?You're probably asking yourself, how would I respond to such questions (let alone on live television!)? I certainly did. I know I wouldn’t have been as composed or articulate as Huff. He exemplified the “gentleness and respect” Peter calls us to show in 1 Peter 3:15.
Huff patiently and clearly defended Jesus’ divinity, the resurrection, the uniqueness of Christianity, and the reliability of Scripture. He maintained steady eye contact, listened carefully, and responded with warmth and confidence—never defensive, always respectful.
Morgan, for his part, appeared genuinely intrigued, at times looking more at Huff than at his notes. Perhaps he had never heard a Christian present the faith so rationally and graciously.
This is how we are called to defend the faith—with clarity, humility, and respect.
You can watch this segment of the interview (about 15 minutes long) here:
In defending Scripture’s reliability, Huff cited the Bible as primary evidence for Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. While some might see this as circular reasoning, Huff skillfully balanced Scripture (special revelation) with logical and historical analysis (general revelation). His references to historiography—the study of historical methods—demonstrated an objective approach that appeals even to skeptics. [4]
Huff’s blend of faith, intellect, and humility serves as a model for all believers. Whether trained in apologetics or not, we should aim to respond to challenges in a way that reflects both truth and grace.
I’m sure Huff later reflected on how he might have responded differently. We should do the same—continually refining how to best explain and defend the gospel and our faith.
In Christ, Doug
AoM Co-Founder, Director of AoM-Military Outreach & Secretary, Board of Directors
“Always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect . . .” 1 Peter 3:15
------------------------------------------------
[1] Piers Morgan is a well-known English journalist, broadcaster, and media personality. He interviewed Huff in May 2025 on “Piers Morgan Uncensored”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdEL1YNoHak
[2] Wes Huff website: https://www.wesleyhuff.com/bio
[3] Huff debated Billy Carson in October 2024 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F7ngjtT43-4&t=795s). Carson is a multi-millionaire media entrepreneur and self-proclaimed “expert in ancient civilizations, spirituality and technology.”