Josh McDowell, born Joslin in 1939, is an American evangelical Christian apologist and evangelist who has authored or co-authored over 150 books. His early life was marked by struggles with self-esteem due to an alcoholic and abusive father, and he also disclosed experiencing childhood sexual abuse. Initially pursuing legal studies, McDowell converted to Christianity during college after attempting to disprove its historical evidence. He holds degrees from Wheaton College and Talbot Theological Seminary. His ministry began with Campus Crusade for Christ, where he served as a campus speaker, addressing topics like relationships, sexual abstinence, self-esteem, and faith development. He also coordinated a discipleship program and has a son, Sean, who is also involved in Christian apologetics.

McDowell's apologetic method centers on presenting arguments for Christian belief using historical and legal proofs to validate biblical texts and Christ's divinity. Works like "Evidence That Demands a Verdict" compile evidence from archaeology, manuscripts, prophecies, and the resurrection. He has also engaged with critiques of biblical scholarship and popular skeptical works. His approach is classified as "classical" and "evidential" apologetics, assuming the human mind can grasp truths about God. In 2021, he apologized for remarks made about minority opportunities and family emphasis on education.

Josh McDowell's work as a Christian apologist focuses on addressing doubts and challenges to Christian belief, particularly from non-Christians and those questioning their faith. He employs a method that emphasizes historical and legal evidence to support the authenticity of biblical texts and the divine nature of Jesus Christ. His approach often involves constructing a cumulative case for Christianity, drawing on archaeological findings, ancient manuscripts, fulfilled prophecies, and the resurrection of Jesus. In works such as "Evidence That Demands a Verdict" and "More Than a Carpenter," he blends historical and legal arguments to attest to Jesus' life and resurrection. McDowell also addresses challenges from higher criticism of the Old Testament and gospel studies, and has engaged with skeptical literature. His apologetics are categorized as "classical" and "evidential," positing that rational arguments for faith are accessible to both believers and non-believers.

McDowell's extensive career in ministry began in 1964 with Campus Crusade for Christ International, where he served as a traveling representative and campus speaker, initially in Latin America and later across North America. His speaking engagements have frequently addressed youth-oriented topics, including relationship dynamics, sexual ethics, and promoting abstinence before marriage through initiatives like the "Why Wait?" campaign. Beyond relationships, his ministry has also focused on building self-esteem and character, as seen in titles like "His Image, My Image" and "Evidence for Joy." In the 1980s, he managed a residential discipleship program called The Julian Center. His son, Sean McDowell, continues the family's legacy in Christian apologetics and academia.