Two bald theologs named James

 

This past weekend I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. James White, the man to whom I am most frequently compared.  Usually, the comparisons are of a theological nature.  People who listen to our podcasts often listen to his as well (www.aomin.org).  But, last Friday we were both in the same place at the same time and we now have photographic proof that the comparisons are not merely theological, but quite physical.

 

I'm grateful that we had the opportunity to meet.  James is one of my apologetics heroes and as I shook his hand I said, "I just wanted to say thank you for all the things I've learned, borrowed, and stolen from you."  We had time for a couple of very cordial chats and I thoroughly enjoyed his presentations.

I first became aware of Dr. White about 15 or 16 years ago when I was part of a chat group hosted by Sound of Grace (www.soundofgrace.com).  We were in the middle of a fierce debate about the transmission of the New Testament text and the controversies surrounding "King James Only-ism."  One of the members of the chat group invited James to join us and present his research and opinions on the subject.  I was immediately struck by the lucidity of his arguments and his ability to communicate clearly and concisely.  After he was done the group voted and Dr. White won the day.

It was years later when I became aware of his website and Internet program, The Dividing Line.  That led to downloading his various debates and lectures.  These days, he's a YouTube power user, uploading videos regularly that deal with various topics: Islam, Catholicism, Mormonism, Calvinism, and defenses of the historic Christian faith.  He goes by the name of "DrOakley1689" on YouTube and you can find his channel here:

Dr White on YouTube

I've called his Dividing Line program a number of times over the years (although not too recently, come to think of it).  I've always enjoyed our exchanges.  One of his most attractive qualities is his willingness to laugh.  I think it's important that theologians take their subject matter very seriously, while being cautious not to take themselves too seriously. 

Even though I've learned the hard way not to hold my heroes up too high, I'm always grateful when I have a chance to meet them, share a bit of time, share the joy of our common faith, and remember how blessed we are that God continues to provide leaders and teachers in His church.

And besides, how can you not like guys who look like this?