The Screwtape Letters: Confronting Evil in Our Time

• Devil in Denominations - Letter #16: Biblical Easter Eggs in the Screwtape Letters: A Theological Journey

  The conversation focuses on a deeper exploration of Letter 16 that was omitted from the abridged audio versions. The hosts discuss the editorial decision to exclude this Letter, emphasizing its significant relevance and the nuanced issues it raises about church attendance and faithfulness. They highlight how the Letter addresses the dangers of both apathy and sectarianism within church communities, noting that faithfulness to a church can become problematic if it leads to factionalism or the belief that one's own church is the sole possessor of truth.The discussion then delves into the broader context of Christian denominational differences, stressing the importance of distinguishing between core tenets of faith and secondary issues. The hosts reference Romans 14, where Paul advises believers to show deference and grace toward one another on non-essential matters, such as worship styles or dietary practices. They argue that while differences in doctrine and practice exist, the essence of Christianity centers on the belief in Jesus Christ's death and resurrection, and that unity should be maintained on these foundational beliefs rather than allowing secondary disagreements to cause division.Personal anecdotes are shared to illustrate the destructive nature of sectarianism, including a story about family conflict rooted in denominational differences. The hosts advocate for an "open-handed" approach to non-essential issues-allowing for diversity of practice and belief-while holding firmly to "closed-handed" core doctrines. They caution against letting minor disagreements distract from the primary mission of the church: spreading the gospel and fostering a genuine relationship with Christ. The conversation concludes by emphasizing humility, mutual respect, and the avoidance of confusion and division, which are seen as tools of evil that undermine the unity and witness of the Christian community.Look out for our upcoming book "Confronting Evil in Our Time,” which will be released this year.Subscribe and join us and our guests on this journey.Show site www.screwtapeletterspodcast.comTruth @screwtapeletterspodcastX @screwtapepodcstIG @screwtapeletterspodcastFacebook https://linktr.ee/screwtapeletterspodcastPodcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com

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• Spiritual Warfare - Letter #15: Biblical Easter Eggs in the Screwtape Letters: A Theological Journey

  🙏 Help spread the Gospel—support our mission with a gift today.Ian and Galen delve into the biblical "Easter eggs"—hidden scriptural references and deeper themes—within Letter 15 from C.S. Lewis’s classic work. They highlight how the demonic perspective in the letter trivializes World War II, framing it as insignificant compared to the far greater spiritual war described in Christian theology. The hosts stress that while the physical war was devastating, Lewis uses it as a metaphor to point toward the ongoing, unseen spiritual warfare that humanity faces, emphasizing the importance of living in the present, practicing gratitude, and keeping eternity in mind.The discussion expands on the concept that the Christian life, especially, is fundamentally one of spiritual warfare, drawing parallels between the battles described in Genesis, the daily struggles against sin and evil, and the ultimate conflict foretold in Revelation. The hosts argue that this warfare is not limited to grand historical events but is experienced daily through personal battles, temptations, and tragedies—citing examples from both scripture and real life. They assert that the demonic realm actively seeks to infiltrate and destroy, and that recognizing this ongoing spiritual battle is crucial for Christians to protect themselves and their families.Finally, the conversation addresses how the church’s acknowledgment of spiritual warfare and demonic forces has diminished over time, shifting from a central focus in early and medieval Christianity to a more subdued presence in modern teachings. The hosts lament the loss of warfare imagery in hymns and church culture, suggesting that this shift has left many Christians naive to the reality of spiritual conflict. They urge listeners to remain vigilant, embrace the biblical call to "put on the armor of God," and recognize that, while Christ’s victory is assured, the daily struggle against evil remains a central part of the Christian walk.Look out for our upcoming book "Confronting Evil in Our Time,” which will be released this year.Subscribe and join us and our guests on this journey.Show site www.screwtapeletterspodcast.comTruth @screwtapeletterspodcastX @screwtapepodcstIG @screwtapeletterspodcastFacebook https://linktr.ee/screwtapeletterspodcastPodcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com

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• The story of Easter: Happy Easter - He is Risen

  🙏 Help spread the Gospel—support our mission with a gift today.The significance of Easter and Holy Week within the Christian faith. Galen and Ian wish you a Happy Easter. They reflect on the importance of Easter as the centerpiece of Christianity, emphasizing that the resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of hope and new life for believers. However, they also stress that Good Friday—the day commemorating Jesus' crucifixion—is often overlooked, even though it is essential because Jesus' death on the cross is what made the resurrection meaningful.The hosts highlight the ongoing struggle with sin and the necessity of repentance, referencing both scripture and themes from C.S. Lewis's "The Screwtape Letters." They explain that Jesus' sacrificial death not only atoned for humanity's sins but also broke the power of evil, as described in passages like Hebrews 2. They encourage listeners to use Easter as a time for self-reflection, spiritual renewal, and deeper engagement with their faith, whether they are regular churchgoers or only attend during major holidays. The hosts also address the historical basis for Jesus' death and resurrection, pointing to both biblical accounts and extra-biblical Roman writings.The episode concludes with a reminder of the connections between the Old and New Testaments, noting that Jesus' actions during Holy Week fulfill ancient prophecies and tie into Jewish traditions such as Passover. The hosts urge listeners to read the Gospel accounts of the crucifixion and resurrection, emphasizing the theological significance found throughout the New Testament. They end by wishing everyone a happy Easter, inviting deeper relationship with Jesus, and announcing the upcoming release of their book, "Confronting Evil in Our Time," inspired by their podcast and C.S. Lewis's workSubscribe and join us and our guests on this journey.Show site www.screwtapeletterspodcast.comTruth @screwtapeletterspodcastX @screwtapepodcstIG @screwtapeletterspodcastFacebook https://linktr.ee/screwtapeletterspodcastPodcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com

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• Humility, Pride, and Charity - Letter #14: Biblical Easter Eggs in the Screwtape Letters: A Theological Journey

  🙏 Help spread the Gospel—support our mission with a gift today.In this episode of the Screwtape Letters podcast, we explore the theme of humility. Pride is the enemy of humility, and even an awareness of one's own humility can be twisted into pride, a tactic the demonic would exploit. It is emphasized that true humility involves a realistic understanding of one's place and gifts, and warn against both false humility and the temptation to base one's worth solely on talents or achievements.The conversation delves into the Christian understanding of humility, drawing from Philippians 2, where Jesus is presented as the ultimate model. The hosts discuss the concept of "kenosis," or Christ's self-emptying, explaining that Jesus, though fully God, chose to set aside his privileges and take on human form, serving others even to the point of washing his disciples' feet. This act is highlighted as the epitome of humility and servant leadership, and listeners are encouraged to emulate this attitude by valuing others above themselves and being willing to use their gifts for the benefit of others, not personal glory.The aspect of charity is woven into this discussion as an essential expression of humility. The hosts note that, in the New Testament, Jesus expands the concept of charity beyond mere financial giving to include acts of service, prayer, and compassion—demonstrating love by valuing others above oneself. Charity, in this sense, becomes a practical outworking of humility, as seen in Christ's willingness to serve and uplift the lowly.The conversation concludes by contrasting this attitude with the pride often celebrated in modern society, particularly in the entertainment industry, and reiterates that a life of humble charity and service to others is both the mark of Christian maturity and the path to deeper meaning and fulfillment. The hosts reflect on the challenges of practicing humility in modern society, especially within environments like the entertainment industry where pride is often celebrated and humility is seen as a weakness. They note that a culture of self-exaltation stands in stark contrast to the Christian call to serve and uplift others. The discussion concludes by reiterating that true meaning and fulfillment are found in serving others with a humble heart, following the example set by Christ, and resisting the societal pressures that equate self-worth with fame or personal achievement.Look out for our upcoming book "Confronting Evil in Our Time,” which will be released this year.Subscribe and join us and our guests on this journey.Show site www.screwtapeletterspodcast.comTruth @screwtapeletterspodcastX @screwtapepodcstIG @screwtapeletterspodcastFacebook https://linktr.ee/screwtapeletterspodcastPodcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com

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• Repentance, Grace, and Works - Letter #13: Biblical Easter Eggs in the Screwtape Letters: A Theological Journey

  🙏 Help spread the Gospel—support our mission with a gift today.The conversation centers on the concept of repentance, particularly its biblical significance and practical implications. The discussion begins by unpacking the meaning of repentance, which is described as a heartfelt transformation involving a conscious decision to turn away from sin and align oneself with God’s will. This transformation is likened to a military about-turn, symbolizing a complete change in direction. The participants emphasize that repentance is not merely an internal feeling but must manifest in outward actions and behavioral changes. They highlight that Lewis connects repentance to sanctification, the process by which individuals grow closer to God and become their truest selves as intended by Him.The dialogue also delves into the distinction between repentance (a vertical relationship with God) and forgiveness (horizontal relationships with others). While repentance involves acknowledging sin before God and seeking His forgiveness, forgiveness between humans does not always necessitate reconciliation or restoration of relationships. The participants explore complex questions about premeditated sin, justice, and forgiveness, reflecting on how these themes intersect with biblical teachings. They agree that forgiveness is essential but recognize that safety and boundaries may take precedence over reconciliation in certain situations. The conversation also touches on the role of repentance in fostering personal growth and spiritual maturity.Finally, the discussion addresses theological debates surrounding repentance, grace, and works. While salvation is seen as a gift of grace through faith alone, the participants argue that true repentance leads to visible changes in one’s life—proof of salvation through works. They reference biblical examples, such as the thief on the cross, to illustrate how repentance involves acknowledging sin and turning toward God. The analogy of striking a match is used to describe how various elements—faith, repentance, new desires—work together simultaneously in salvation. Ultimately, they conclude that repentance requires intentional action and effort, aligning with Jesus’s call to bear fruit in keeping with repentance, which reflects genuine transformation and obedience to God’s will.Look out for our upcoming book "Confronting Evil in Our Time,” which will be released this year.Subscribe and join us and our guests on this journey.Show site www.screwtapeletterspodcast.comTruth @screwtapeletterspodcastX @screwtapepodcstIG @screwtapeletterspodcastFacebook https://linktr.ee/screwtapeletterspodcastPodcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com

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