Christian Apologetics Writer | Founder of Amos Ministries
Welcome to Amos Ministries, a platform dedicated to exploring Christian perspectives, providing spiritual insights, and engaging in thought-provoking discussions on matters of faith.
Who is Ashley Amos?
Ashley Amos is a Christian apologetics writer from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. He specializes in addressing doctrinal and theological topics in an evidential manner when dealing with Christians, and in a presuppositional manner when dealing with atheists and agnostics. Thus, fostering meaningful discussions across all belief systems.
Ashley also delves into the topic of Christ in the context of Islam. His primary focus when addressing the Muslim perspective is to dispel misconceptions that Muslims may have about Christianity, specifically, the identity and teachings of Jesus.
Mr. Amos offers contextualized answers to misunderstandings that other religions have within the doctrine of Jesus. By contextualizing the origin of the misunderstandings, answers can be discovered, aiming to foster greater understanding and enlightenment. Mr. Amos takes an apologetic approach to topics that seeks to build bridges of understanding between the Abrahamic faiths, by understanding their respective places in the Bible. He brings a strong rational approach to Darwinian evolution and existential questions, such as the existence of God, to deep doctrinal issues regarding the teachings of Jesus.
Mr. Amos also engages with the Jewish faith, employing logical and evidential arguments to demonstrate that Jesus is the Messiah, following a similar approach as the first-century church when dealing with the Jewish people.
Acts 9:20 – At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God.
Acts 9:22 – Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Messiah.
Acts 8:5 – Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah there.
Acts 18:28 – For he vigorously refuted his Jewish opponents in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah.
Mr. Amos’ particular area of expertise lies in thoroughly examining the doctrines of various Christian denominations. His goal is to pinpoint the differences between these denominational teachings and how they differ from the original doctrine of Jesus Christ, as well as the early first-century church. This is also what the Apostle Paul did.
Galatians 1:6-9 – I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— 7 which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse! 9 As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let them be under God’s curse!
2 Corinthians 11:3-4, 13-15 – But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ. 4 For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the Spirit you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it easily enough.
Acts 20:29-30 – I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. 30 Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them.
Ashley has always been of the Christian faith from birth. He comes from a Christian household and family where both his parents and grandparents on both sides were of the Christian faith. He was brought up with biblical Christian principles as a child. His informal study of the Bible began at the age of 12.
For the past two decades, Ashley has dedicated himself to the study of the Bible and the doctrine of Jesus Christ. His journey reflects an unwavering commitment to delving deeper into the wisdom of God’s Word, free from denominational influences. Over the last 15 years, Ashley has been visiting different denominations of the Christian faith around the world, sparking deep and thoughtful conversations about doctrinal and theological distinctions.
Mr. Amos has been undergoing an intensive doctrinal study of all the Christian denominations for the past 15 years. Studying the various doctrines and visiting their churches and bible studies which has allowed him to determine the validity and accuracy of their doctrinal beliefs. The end goal is to author a book on this subject.
In his pursuit, Ashley has engaged in dialogues with spiritual leaders from diverse Abrahamic faiths, including pastors, priests, imams, and rabbis. These discussions have revolved around profound topics such as the nature of Jesus as the Messiah and his significance in these three faith traditions. The identity of God has been a central focus of these enriching conversations.
Ashley’s goal is to continue engaging in meaningful conversations with his brothers and sisters across all denominations of the Christian faith; from Catholic to The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints and everything in between. This includes all other Abrahamic religions, to exhaustively discuss and study the questions and issues that create such a great divide between mankind and God. This gap can only be closed through the true understanding of the identity and doctrine of Jesus the Christ.
A Passion for Truth
Ashley’s passion for truth and his devotion to Christian Apologetics shine through in his writings. He has a unique gift for delving into the depths of Scripture and presenting profound insights that challenge conventional denominational thinking. His commitment to biblical scholarship and study, combined with his unwavering faith, makes him a powerful voice in today’s ever-evolving spiritual landscape.
What Is Apologetics?
Apologetics is the study and practice of giving answers for the reasonableness and truth of the Christian faith. The word ‘apologetics’ comes from the Greek word ‘apologia’, meaning to give a defense.
1 Peter 3:15 – but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being 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.
Philippians 1:15-16 – Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. 16The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel.
Philippians 1:3-7 – I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, 4 always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. 6 And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. 7It is right for me to feel this way about you all, because I hold you in my heart, for you are all partakers with me of grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel.
Apologetics is to defend the gospel with logic, reason and evidence. Apologetics uses critical thinking and logic to understand difficult concepts and their practical application in today’s world. Apologetics uses objective reasons and evidence to answer difficult questions pertaining to life and the Christian doctrine of Jesus, the Christ. It helps others to develop an intellectual and reasonable examination of the Christian message. Quite literally, apologetics means to defend like a lawyer who goes to a trial.
The importance of this role has often been overlooked in today’s church. Many individuals identify as apologists, yet they defend positions that do not align with biblical teachings. It is crucial for us not to embrace viewpoints that lack biblical foundation. Instead, we should adopt the practice of thorough scrutiny and vigorous cross examination, whenever we encounter an opinion or supposed ‘fact,’ assessing whether it aligns with the teachings found in the Bible. This approach mirrors the diligence displayed by the Bereans, who scrutinized and compared everything they heard against the Scriptures.
Acts 17:11-12 – Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so. 12 Many of them therefore believed, with not a few Greek women of high standing as well as men.
Our belief should come from this logical examination of the scriptures, not blind faith in man’s opinions.
An apologist is meant to maintain an objective stance when it comes to evaluating human statements, particularly in the context of denominational teachings. The Bereans tested what the Apostle Paul conveyed, not the Bible itself. Similarly, it is incumbent upon us to subject all denominational founders and their doctrines to thorough scrutiny to determine if they can withstand rigorous cross-examination. This process involves assessing the alignment of these teachings with the Scriptures, recognizing that we are not questioning the Bible itself but rather the interpretations and opinions of individuals regarding it.
The Catholic Church once had an official role known as the Protector of the Faith, often referred to as the Devil’s Advocate. This designated individual was responsible for rigorously evaluating every piece of evidence and opinion against the litmus of God’s word. The purpose of this office was to assess the authenticity of potential canonization for certain individuals seeking sainthood, which signified the formal endorsement of their beliefs by the Church. The responsibilities of the Devil’s Advocate were typically carried out by a canon lawyer. However, this position was eventually abolished because it posed a more formidable challenge for those who sought to manipulate or distort scripture. It emphasized the need for a thorough examination of claims, which is a role that the apologist must also embrace. The apologist must conduct a robust cross-examination of all denominational leaders who lay claim to sainthood, scrutinizing the validity and accuracy of their doctrinal beliefs.
Following the Yom Kippur War, the nation of Israel introduced a concept known as the “Rule of the Tenth Man.” According to this rule, when a group of ten individuals is presented with the same information, evidence, or opinion, and nine of them reach a consensus on a resolution, it becomes the duty of the tenth person to voice objections and highlight any potential issues with the proposed resolution. This practice aims to prevent denial and self-deception, a role that closely aligns with that of an apologist.
The role of an apologist is essential but often lacking in denominational settings within the church today. It’s important to clarify that the apologist’s role is not to cast doubt or question the Bible itself. Instead, their purpose is to critically assess people’s opinions and interpretations of the Bible, and whether they align with God’s word and the teachings of Jesus. Thus, fostering a deeper understanding and discernment within the faith.
Mr. Amos’ specific expertise is the full written explanation of doctrinal issues, due to the long lasting nature of the written word. Many times in the bible, God has instructed prophets and men of God to write His word down as a lasting reminder.
Isaiah 30:8-11 – And now, go, write it before them on a tablet and inscribe it in a book, that it may be for the time to come as a witness forever. 9For they are a rebellious people, lying children, children unwilling to hear the instruction of the LORD; 10who say to the seers, “Do not see,” and to the prophets, “Do not prophesy to us what is right; speak to us smooth things, prophesy illusions, 11 leave the way, turn aside from the path, let us hear no more about the Holy One of Israel.”
Jeremiah 36:2-4 – Take a scroll of a book and write on it all the words that I have spoken to you against Israel, against Judah, and against all the nations, from the day I spoke to you, from the days of Josiah even to this day. 3It may be that the house of Judah will hear all the adversities which I purpose to bring upon them, that everyone may turn from his evil way, that I may forgive their iniquity and their sin.”
Revelation 1:3 & 19 – The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John…19 Write therefore the things that you have seen, those that are and those that are to take place after this.
Jeremiah 30:1-2 – This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord: 2 “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘Write in a book all the words I have spoken to you.
Isaiah 8:1 – AND the Lord said to me: Take thee a great book, and write in it with a man’s pen. Take sway the spoils with speed, quickly take the prey.
Habakkuk 2:2-3 – And the LORD answered me: “Write the vision;
make it plain on tablets,
so he may run who reads it.
3For still the vision awaits its appointed time;
it hastens to the end—it will not lie.
If it seems slow, wait for it;
it will surely come; it will not delay.
Jeremiah 25:13 – And I will bring upon that land all my words which I have pronounced against it, even all that is written in this book, which Jeremiah hath prophesied against all the nations.
Exodus 17:14 – Then the LORD said to Moses, “Write this as a memorial in a book and recite it in the ears of Joshua, that I will utterly blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven.”
Exodus 34:27 – And the LORD said to Moses, “Write these words, for in accordance with these words I have made a covenant with you and with Israel.”
Deuteronomy 27:8 – And you shall write on the stones all the words of this law very plainly.”
It is evident that the written word is very important in Christian ministry, due to its lasting quality. What would have happened if the Apostles/disciples did not have a written account of Jesus’ earthly ministry? What if they did not prepare a written account of their understanding and perspectives? Had they failed to record their insights and perspectives in writing, their spoken words would have faded into obscurity, offering value solely to those who were present to hear their oral testimony firsthand.
Currently, Mr. Amos dedicates the majority of his time to the art of writing. While he has fearlessly participated in countless debates during his career as an apologist, he is seldom presently participating in spoken debates due to their transient nature. His attention has now pivoted towards written publications, driven by the consideration of their enduring value relative to the effort invested.
Job 19:23-24 – “Oh that my words were written! Oh that they were inscribed in a book! 24 Oh that with an iron pen and lead they were engraved in the rock forever!
A Controversial Perspective
Ashley’s writings are not for the faint of heart. He fearlessly addresses controversial topics within the Christian faith, seeking to shed light on areas that may be clouded in uncertainty. His thought-provoking approach encourages readers to explore their beliefs, question their assumptions, challenge their beliefs and engage in meaningful dialogues about the Christian walk.
Ashley’s style of conversation is often referred to as polemics. This refers to the practice of engaging in controversial and often aggressive debates, arguments and discourse, typically on matters of doctrine, belief, ideology, or principles. It involves presenting and defending one’s own position while criticizing and challenging the opposing viewpoint. Polemical writing or discourse is characterized by its confrontational style and the intention to persuade or convince others of the validity of a particular perspective or the flaws in an opposing viewpoint.
Polemics can be found in various fields, including politics, religion, philosophy, and academia, and it is often used as a tool for advocacy, critique, or defense of a particular stance or ideology. While polemics can be intense and contentious, it plays a role in stimulating critical thinking, promoting dialogue, and clarifying differences of opinion in public dissertation.
The Vision for the Future
Ashley Amos is not content with merely sharing his years of study through blogs and articles. He is actively working on publishing a book that will delve even deeper into relevant Christian topics. This upcoming publication will offer readers a comprehensive and thoughtfully crafted exploration of faith, bolstered by Ashley’s years of dedication to biblical study and spiritual growth. Ashley is also in the process of developing a New Testament study Bible, complete with commentary and in-depth explanations of the key concepts found in these crucial books of the Bible.
Job 31:35-36 – Oh, that I had one to hear me! Here is my mark. Oh, that the Almighty would answer me, That my Prosecutor had written a book! 36 Surely I would carry it on my shoulder, And bind it on me like a crown.
The book Job is speaking of is the Bible, as in Job’s time, God’s word was not yet written. It was transmitted through oral tradition.
We now have this book and it is all important for us to study it thoroughly on a daily basis.
Psalm 1:1-6 – Blessed is the man
who walks not in the counsel of the wicked,
nor stands in the way of sinners,
nor sits in the seat of scoffers;
2 but his delight is in the law of the Lord,
and on his law he meditates day and night.
3 He is like a tree
planted by streams of water
that yields its fruit in its season,
and its leaf does not wither.
In all that he does, he prospers.
4 The wicked are not so,
but are like chaff that the wind drives away.
5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous;
6 for the Lord knows the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked will perish.
Mr. Amos aims to foster this type of attitude towards the constant study of God’s word, through creating a series of course curriculums for individuals, groups and churches who have a desire to grow deeper in their Christian understanding. These courses will use reason and logic to examine the evidence and challenge the existing beliefs that we hold onto. The courses aim to help determine whether our existing beliefs are valid to continue following them. By doing this, we can resolve once and for all, the falsehoods and errors that were passed down to us by previous generations.
This will be achieved through thought-provoking questions being asked throughout the study guide. It will also include sections related to self-examination, meditation and much soul-searching and contemplation.
These courses will require much self questioning and self observation. Change can only take place through this degree of effort. Also, some of these answers can be sent in to Amos Ministries for direct dialogue, if desired.
Join the Conversation
Ashley Amos invites you to join the conversation here at Amos Ministries. Whether you’re a seasoned theologian, a seeker of truth, or simply curious about the Christian faith, this platform is a place where you can explore, learn, and grow in your spiritual journey.
Thank you for visiting Amos Ministries. Together, we can embark on a quest for deeper understanding, unwavering faith, and a closer walk with God through his son, Jesus, the Christ.
Your brother in Christ,
Pastor Ashley Amos
Author | Apologist | Blogger