@John146 @GaryA @fredoheaven @GRACE_ambassador @HealthAndHappiness @LeeLoving
Hello everyone,
I would like to open up a discussion about my debate if you are interested in sharing your thoughts.
This was my first debate, so I appreciate your patience.
While I believe I presented some strong points in defense of the debate question through my slide presentation, I also recognize several areas where I could improve, especially if I were to participate in a live video debate on a future biblical topic.
Areas for Improvement
- Public Speaking Practice
I need to work on eliminating filler words like “um” and improving my delivery. Joining a Toastmasters Club would help me refine my speaking skills.
- Rehearsing My Slides
I need to practice delivering my slides more smoothly and concisely within a limited time frame.
- Time Management
Investing in a professional desk timer would help me track my time more effectively during a debate.
- Minimizing Distractions
I need to ensure that I am not pressing buttons too loudly during my slide presentation.
- Structuring My Closing Statement
For my ten-minute closing statement, I should prepare a written speech and rehearse it thoroughly.
- Balancing Depth and Clarity
While I do not regret using a detailed slide presentation, my time was limited, and I felt rushed. Since I tend to focus on details, I want to ensure that I provide enough information for an informed decision while still being concise.
a. Perhaps I should have streamlined my doctrinal points and focused on just a few key ones, reinforcing them more effectively.
b. Most of my preparation time was spent creating the slides. If I debate again, I believe I will need at least three to four months to properly prepare. Crafting slides that are both content-rich and visually appealing is incredibly time-consuming. Debating is far more challenging than it looks. Speaking effectively and staying within time limits requires serious effort.
- Handling Audience Questions
Some of the audience’s questions were worded in a way that was unclear to me. If I debate again, I might screen capture the questions and use ChatGPT for clarification.
- Developing Quick Rebuttal Skills
I need to improve my ability to take notes in real-time and formulate concise, effective rebuttals on the spot. While I have honed my written debate skills over many years on Christian forums, verbal debates require a different skill set, and I need to practice that more.
Reflections on the Debate
Despite my personal challenges, I believe my opponent failed to directly address my key points. He did not successfully refute any of my four scriptural pillars.
I do believe I had some moments of victory, but my lack of debate experience prevented me from delivering the stronger impact I was aiming for.
Good News and Next Steps
- Sharing My Slides
Once I complete the section on textual differences in my doctrines, I plan to upload my slide presentation here for download. I hope this resource blesses the body of Christ and strengthens believers’ trust in God's perfect words.
- Revised Presentation Video
I am planning to record and upload a professionally rehearsed version of my opening ten-minute debate slide presentation. This version will allow me to explain everything properly without being rushed or making mistakes.
- A More Thoughtful Response to Jeff Dollar
I may create a detailed video response addressing Jeff Dollar’s points from the debate. Since I am a details guy, I do not want to leave any stone unturned. I want to ensure that Jeff and other Christians receive a prayerfully considered, well-thought-out reply to the key issues raised.
I would love to hear your thoughts.
May the Lord Jesus Christ bless you all.
Sincerely,
Bible Highlighter.
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