If you have any interest at all in apologetics – the defence of the faith – you will have come across the work of Francis Schaeffer (1912-1984).
It is hard to over-estimate his great influence on thoughtful evangelicalism. His range of writings, from climate change to postmodern art, reflect a rare calling as a missionary to culture. There were weaknesses in his ministry, oversimplifications of philosophical theory and a perilous partnership with secular political power, but contemporary apologetics is enormously in his debt.
Venomous critic
It is, therefore, a sad fact that one of his most venomous critics is his own son. Frank Schaeffer once worked closely with his father on film projects and in mobilising the church on the issue of abortion.
