Conversational Apologetics | Asking Better Questions: The Art of the Columbo Tactic

Season 2, Episode 127

In this episode, Michael and Zach continue their series on conversational apologetics by exploring Gregory Koukl's signature "Columbo Tactic"—the art of asking thoughtful questions that invite conversation rather than confrontation. While many Christians assume effective apologetics depends primarily on having the right answers, this discussion argues that wise questions often accomplish far more. Looking to the example of Jesus, who frequently responded to questions with questions of His own, Michael and Zach examine how genuine curiosity can uncover assumptions, clarify definitions, expose faulty reasoning, and create opportunities for meaningful gospel conversations. Along the way, they introduce the first two Columbo questions—"What do you mean by that?" and "How did you come to that conclusion?"—while emphasizing the importance of listening well, slowing conversations down, and responding with humility rather than haste. The episode concludes with practical examples drawn from today's cultural conversations and challenges listeners to become faithful ambassadors of Christ by asking better questions before offering better answers.

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