Testify

YouTube Channel Review

“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…” – 1 Peter 3:15

In the Greek, Peter uses the word ἀπολογίαν (apologia), which, which appears translated in this verse as “to make a defense.” It’s the word from which we derive “apologetics,” which is used to describe the practice of defending the Christian faith.

Erik Manning, the creator of the YouTube channel Testify, wasn’t always interested in apologetics. But when he attempted to share the gospel with two unbelieving friends, their questions and responses quickly made him realize he couldn’t adequately contend for the faith.

That conversation, according to Manning’s website, encouraged him to study his beliefs. And soon, he not only felt equipped to handle tough questions; he also wasn’t afraid of tackling them head on.

“I aim to help doubters doubt their doubts and equip believers to be able to share their faith in a skeptical culture,” Manning writes.

And if you watch his videos on Testify, you’ll become more equipped to handle difficult questions, too.

POSITIVE CONTENT

Manning’s videos cover a wide range of topics. Some videos address claims by skeptics or Islam against Christianity. Others tackle difficult-to-understand verses. Still more analyze how certain details in the Bible—from historical fragments to specific conversations—bolster the reliability of the book.

Something Manning does particularly well is point out “undesigned coincidences” in the Bible, which happen “when one account of an event leaves out certain information, and another recording of the same event, often unintentionally, provides the missing details.” For instance, in Mark 3:17, we read that the disciples James and John were nicknamed the “Sons of Thunder” without context as to why. But in Luke 9:54-55, we see an instance in which the two brothers offer a quick-tempered retort, providing evidence towards the validity of the nickname.

Videos are heavily researched and provide plenty of quotes from a multitude of sources to bolster Manning’s arguments.

CONTENT CONCERNS

None.

CHANNEL SUMMARY

Testify will help viewers grow confidence in the faith, giving them (and anyone else watching) helpful examples of why the Bible is reliable and Christianity is the truth. Whether you’re searching for the truth or are just wanting to strengthen your apologetical ability, Testify is a helpful spot to stop.