SPEAKING TOPICS
This is not an exhaustive list, but here are a few examples of the types of talks I give. I speak at camps, churches, universities, and conferences. I also enjoy small group Bible studies.
THE GOOD NEWS OF THE GOSPEL
Many people today call themselves Christians, but have no idea why or even know what the gospel is. In this presentation, James shows how God is good and we are not. We are all sinners. Given that fact, we all deserve to be punished for our crimes. In fact true justice demands it. That is why the good news is so good! Because God loves us so much, He sent His Son on a rescue mission to seek and save the lost. Jesus Died in the place of sinful men satisfying God’s wrath so we could go free and be reconciled to Him. Once we are saved we do not serve Him to gain His approval, we serve Him out of love because we already have it!
HOW TO UNDERSTAND THE BIBLE
Does the Bible seem confusing to you? Is there a correct way to read the Bible? In this practical presentation, James will give some helpful tips how to read and study God’s Word. As the Apostle Paul told Timothy, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” When you understand this truth and read the context of God’s Word the way it was written – then you can truly be transformed by it.
WHY I AM A CHRISTIAN: An introduction to Apologetics
What does it mean to be a Christian? Why do you call yourself a Christian (if you do)? James will give a definition of apologetics and show why all Christians should be prepared to make a case and defend the truth of Christianity. James will answer the question of how can we know Christianity is true? He will give a cumulative case approach and demonstrate there are many compelling reasons and a wealth of evidence for the Christian worldview.
THE CASE FOR CHRISTIANITY – This is typically given as a 3 or 4 part series so it is best suited for a seminar and covers the next 3 topics (Truth, God & the Bible) however each topic can also be addressed in a single talk.
DOES TRUTH EXIST?
We live in a culture where many believe truth is relative. They will say, “That may be true for you, but it is not true for me.” Christianity cannot be true, nor any other worldview (including atheism), if truth is relative. James will demonstrate why truth is absolute and knowable and how you can refute anyone who claims it isn’t.
DOES GOD EXIST?
While there are many compelling reasons to demonstrate the existence of God, in this talk James will focus on the following 3 explanations: 1. God is the best explanation for the origin of the universe, 2. God is the best explanation for the design or “fine tuning” of the universe for intelligent life, and 3. God is the best explanation for the existence of moral values and duties. These 3 powerful arguments-two scientific and one philosophical will include the Cosmological Argument, The Teleological Argument, and the Moral Argument.
IS THE NEW TESTAMENT TRUE?
In this session, James gives many reasons to believe the New Testament is historically accurate and has been preserved through history. From the accuracy of the New Testament, the accuracy of the Old Testament can be established as well. He will also show that not only are miracles possible and they occurred in the New Testament, but that the greatest miracle of all has already happened and scientific evidence has confirmed this.
WHY IS THERE SO MUCH EVIL & SUFFERING IN THE WORLD?
The problem of evil and suffering is one of the greatest challenges raised against God. Christians must respond with compassion and empathy, but also with truth. James tries to bring some perspective to this topic by covering several points why an all powerful, all loving, and all knowing God would allow evil. He also will show that the existence of evil is actually a positive proof that God does exist.
DOUBTING DARWIN – The Case Against Evolution
Darwinian Evolution is the view taught in most high schools and universities. Are you able to defend the Christian view of creation when presented with conflicting evidence? In this session James shows that there are significant challenges that can be raised that do not support Darwinian Evolution. In fact, when all the scientific evidence is considered, it clearly points to an Intelligent Designer. After this presentation James is confident that the case for evolution will not seem as strong as many take it to be.
WHO IS JESUS CHRIST?
An appropriate understanding of the Person of Jesus Christ is essential to Christianity. Who is Jesus Christ? Is He really the promised Messiah of Old Testament?” Is Jesus Christ truly the Son of God? Is He literally God Himself, the Divine living within human flesh? Were Jesus Christ’s claims that of a Liar or Lunatic or is He really the Lord of the universe? In this talk James walks through the most persuasive evidence from the Bible of the deity of Christ.
IS THERE REALLY A HEAVEN?
This is one of James’ favorite messages especially since his own daughter, father, mother and many other family and loved ones are already there! Heaven is a real place where the people of God will live one day. In fact, heaven is where God and the angels live. Jesus is in heaven preparing us a place to live. In heaven, those saved by God will have new bodies without the curse of sin! In heaven there will be no more death or sickness or sorrow. He will wipe every tear away from your eyes.
THE CASE FOR MARRIAGE
Marriage is an institution designed by God. It is very important to Him. In our culture marriage between one man and one woman for a lifetime is under vicious attack. In this message James provides the evidence for God ordained marriage. He also provides some practical insights based on the Word of God how you can have the marriage of your dreams.