An argument in legal terms, is when you present your case and make a defense against an opposing party.  It is not a “fight”.  It is a discussion in which two parties present differing opinions and discuss them for the purpose at reaching a consensus.  That isn’t always possible for reasons discussed later.  However, it is a good idea to start out such a discussion by gaining insight into the other parties position.  That’s when we ask our “why” questions.  

• With each response received from the “what” questions addressed above, dig deeper with further questions about their responses.
• Often, the other person will make claims regarding God, religion, or something similar that will sound like stereotypical arguments with little basis in fact. The idea here is to ask questions that put the burden of proof back on the other party to support their claim. 
• The purpose for digging deeper is to better understand WHY the other person thinks and feels the way he/she does.
• It is important to understand why they believe it as much as it is what they believe.
• Asking questions to dig deeper, such as,
  • “That’s an interesting point. Can you tell me more about …?”
  • “How did you come to that conclusion?”
  • “Where did you get your facts regarding …?”
  • “Why do you say that …?”
  • “What are your reasons for holding the view that …?”
  • “What makes that ides appeal to you?”
  • “Can you give me some reasons for your conclusion?”
  • “Why should I take your point seriously?”
• Some people may struggle to explain why they believe what they do. When this happens, ask them,
  • If what they believe is even possible,
  • Plausible,
  • Or probable
• Avoid falling into the trap of a direct challenge by trying to defend the faith in a head-to-head duel. It is important to first make the other person defend their position instead of trying to defend ours, before all the facts are gathered.  Ask the other person to explain the rational for their position, or for evidence to support their claims.
• Opposing parties will often make claims on behalf of yourself and other Christians and then claim they are wrong and insist you argue to prove them wrong instead. Don’t fall for this trap.  Point out they made the claim, so they must defend the reasons for their claim. 
• When facing a hostile and aggressive person that brings up an issue that you don’t know that much about, go back to fact finding mode and ask questions to gather more information. This will deflect the attack and make the person explain their position in more detail.
• People will often try to dodge questions asking them to provide evidence for their statements.Don’t let them change the subject.  Call them out for avoiding answering your earlier inquiry as to provide evidence for their claim.