Why Bridging Matters in Apologetics

In the October 6 episode of Point of View, host Kerby Anderson opens a conversation with Lindsay Mendenhwald, director of operations at Mama Bear Apologetics and author of Bridge Building Apologetics, How to Get Along Even When We Disagree. The discussion centers on a simple premise: defending the Christian faith should be an act of gentleness and respect, not a battlefield.

Truth and Friendship: The Foundations of a Bridge

Mendenhwald explains that a bridge is only as strong as its foundations. She identifies truth and friendship as those foundations. Truth, she says, is the objective reality that “2 plus 2 equals 4,” while friendship is the willingness to meet people where they are, without assuming their motives or beliefs.

• Truth: “We need to be firm in the truth, but we can still be kind.”
• Friendship: “It’s about listening, asking questions, and showing genuine care.”

Listening Before Speaking

A recurring theme in the interview is the importance of listening. Mendenhwald cautions against the temptation to “wait for the opportunity to speak.” Instead, she encourages listeners to lean in, ask thoughtful questions, and let the conversation unfold naturally. This approach, she notes, prevents misunderstandings and keeps the focus on the person, not the problem.

“If you’re just waiting to speak, you’ll miss what’s really important.”

Jesus and Paul as Models of Bridge Building

The conversation turns to biblical examples. Mendenhwald highlights Jesus’ gentle interactions with tax collectors and the thief on the cross as illustrations of meeting people where they are. She also points to Paul’s willingness to be used by God as a reminder that everyday believers can be vessels for the gospel without formal training.

Practical Takeaways: Willingness and Everyday Sharing

Throughout the episode, Mendenhwald stresses that anyone can participate in bridge building. She shares stories of people who, without formal training, stepped forward to share their faith simply because they felt God was using them. The key, she says, is readiness to share, coupled with prayer and humility.

Listeners are invited to consider how they might apply these principles in their own conversations, keeping in mind the balance between truth, friendship, and listening.