Reasonable Theology Podcast

What is the Columbo Tactic? Greg Koukl Explains How Questions Can Help In Challenging Conversations

November 15, 2023 Clay Kraby Season 5
What is the Columbo Tactic? Greg Koukl Explains How Questions Can Help In Challenging Conversations
Reasonable Theology Podcast
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Reasonable Theology Podcast
What is the Columbo Tactic? Greg Koukl Explains How Questions Can Help In Challenging Conversations
Nov 15, 2023 Season 5
Clay Kraby

Apologist Greg Koukl of Stand to Reason  provides an overview of the "Columbo Tactic" and how it can help you stay in the driver's seat in challenging conversations.

The "Columbo" tactic, named after the TV detective, is a strategic approach for introducing spiritual topics into conversations through simple, leading questions. It involves asking open-ended, inquisitive questions like "What do you mean by that?" to gently steer the conversation towards spirituality. 

The tactic aims to expose flaws or contradictions in others' views in a non-confrontational manner. For instance, following up with "How did you come to that conclusion?" respects the other person's reasoning and encourages them to articulate their beliefs, providing more insight for further discussion. 

Even when faced with responses lacking clear reasoning, the Columbo tactic uses straightforward, relevant questions to provoke thought, emphasizing the importance of having reasons for one’s beliefs. This method highlights the power of asking well-placed questions to facilitate deeper, more meaningful conversations about spiritual matters.

▶ Watch the full conversation: https://youtu.be/CZrApYwhP7Y
📖 Pick up a copy of Tactics: A Game Plan for Discussing Your Christian Convictions https://amzn.to/478Sppl
📖 Pick up a copy of Street Smarts: Using Questions to Answer Christianity's Toughest Challenges https://amzn.to/49yRWOA

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Show Notes

Apologist Greg Koukl of Stand to Reason  provides an overview of the "Columbo Tactic" and how it can help you stay in the driver's seat in challenging conversations.

The "Columbo" tactic, named after the TV detective, is a strategic approach for introducing spiritual topics into conversations through simple, leading questions. It involves asking open-ended, inquisitive questions like "What do you mean by that?" to gently steer the conversation towards spirituality. 

The tactic aims to expose flaws or contradictions in others' views in a non-confrontational manner. For instance, following up with "How did you come to that conclusion?" respects the other person's reasoning and encourages them to articulate their beliefs, providing more insight for further discussion. 

Even when faced with responses lacking clear reasoning, the Columbo tactic uses straightforward, relevant questions to provoke thought, emphasizing the importance of having reasons for one’s beliefs. This method highlights the power of asking well-placed questions to facilitate deeper, more meaningful conversations about spiritual matters.

▶ Watch the full conversation: https://youtu.be/CZrApYwhP7Y
📖 Pick up a copy of Tactics: A Game Plan for Discussing Your Christian Convictions https://amzn.to/478Sppl
📖 Pick up a copy of Street Smarts: Using Questions to Answer Christianity's Toughest Challenges https://amzn.to/49yRWOA

Get the newsletter at ReasonableTheology.org/Subscribe. The weekly email includes:

  • the latest article or podcast episode
  • a helpful theological definition
  • a painting depicting a scene from Scripture or church history
  • a musical selection to enrich your day
  • the best book deal I've found that week to build your library.

Support the Show.


GET THE NEWSLETTER
Each edition of the Reasonable Theology newsletter contains my latest article or podcast episode PLUS:

  • A Theological Word or Phrase Explained Quickly and Clearly
  • A Painting Depicting a Scene from Scripture or Church History
  • Audio of a Hymn or other Musical Selection to Enjoy
  • A Recommended Book or Resource to Expand Your Library

SUBSCRIBE HERE