Aleksi Markkanen serves as a teacher and apologist in Finland.
When did you trust Christ?
At age 16 as a freshman in secondary school, I was invited to the local youth Bible study group. They loved me to the Lord. I quickly realised they had something (or rather, Someone) in their lives I wanted, too, and I gave myself to Jesus Christ.
What have been the defining moments of your Christian walk?
My growth has been gradual and steady. My most formative experiences have been studying the Bible and using expert sources to dig into its original cultural and textual context, serving the body of Christ as a teacher and apologist for the last 24 years, and living with my dear wife and five children.
What do you hope to gain from participating?
I expect to network with people who share similar interests and to gain new information and practical ideas to further my role of defending the faith.
What is your ministry?
As the apologist of OPKO, my task is to honestly defend the Christian faith and clarify questions related to its historical and rational trustworthiness. I publish apologetical media content to reach students who often face challenging and erroneous claims. At student gatherings, camps, and church/organisational speaking engagements, I teach people to further their grasp of the Christian faith and the Bible.
What is your leadership role or what were your past leadership roles?
In Finland, I am the only one who holds an M.A. in Christian Apologetics (Biola University) and the only person employed with the title of 'apologist' in any church of organization. Between 2009–2023, I worked as an upper elementary school teacher (maths and natural sciences). Although I have not held leadership roles in the church or para-church organisations, I often organise apologetical events and am considered knowledgeable in the field.
Why should someone invest in your ministry?
I have received feedback that I am a clear communicator and presenter, even of complex ideas, and that people benefit greatly from my teaching. Interest in apologetics is rising in Finland, as young men in particular are turning to Christ. My supporters are pleased with how their investment in me has been put to use. I left my public teacher position and salary behind to engage in Christian ministry but am currently only 80% employed as an apologist.
