Autobiography as Apologetic: My Journey to Faith and Christian Philosophy

In this extended and moving episode of Truth Tribe, Dr. Douglas Groothuis reads his essay Autobiography as Apologetic, originally published in the Christian Research Journal. This personal narrative recounts his journey from spiritual seeking and philosophical skepticism to a lifelong commitment to Christ and Christian apologetics.

With clarity and honesty, Dr. Groothuis shares how God pursued him through dreams, conversations, mystical encounters, academic trials, and literature. He recounts the influences of thinkers like Kierkegaard, Schaeffer, and C.S. Lewis, the love and editing brilliance of his late wife Rebecca, and how Christian truth took hold of his mind and heart. This is more than a memoir — it is a testimony to the truth, power, and rationality of the gospel.

🔑 Main Takeaways

• Discover how a former seeker of esoteric spirituality and Eastern mysticism came to see the Bible as the only source of truth.

• Learn how autobiography can serve as a form of apologetics, blending personal story with evidence-based faith.

• Understand why spiritual warfare, critical thinking, and biblical literacy are essential for defending Christianity.

• Be inspired by the role of mentors, books, dreams, and divine providence in shaping a Christian philosopher’s worldview.

• Reflect on how suffering and assurance of faith are both part of the journey — and how apologetics can minister even in deep personal trials.

📖 Bible Verses Referenced

• Psalm 19:1–6; Romans 1:18–21; Revelation 13:18; Galatians 1:6–11; Revelation 21–22; Ephesians 2:8; John 6:68–69; 3 John 1:4 

 Relevant Resources & Mentions

• 📘 Autobiography as Apologetic — Read at Christian Research Journal

• 📘 Christian Apologetics by Douglas Groothuis

• 📘 The God Who Is There by Francis Schaeffer

• 📘 The Kingdom of the Cults<