Imagine looking at life from the other side, that is the side of evil. What would be the strongest attractions evil has and what would be its greatest weaknesses? Obviously if you were going to persuade people that evil was "better" [of course how could evil suggest that it was better than anything, doesn't that imply an impartial standard and then the whole of evil unravels] than the pursuit of the good?
Evil clearly must be doing some good for Christians are dropping like flies in the United States and indifferent spirituality is taking its place. Evil has either succeeded in making its case, whatever that may be, or it has succeeding make millions believe that to do nothing is just as good. The only think evil need to do to succeed is for good people to do nothing.
CS Lewis takes on the challenge of evil in the Screwtape Letters. It is a wonderful read not only of how evil effects people in negative ways, which is often obvious, but in very subtle ways by making Christians proud of their Christianity to the point of snubbing their noses at those less "spiritual" then themselves. There is not greater evil in the world than that done with the enthusiasm of religious fervor.
I'm hope our Sunday School Class will take on the Screwtape letter this spring. If you're interested in joining us I'll be sending out weekly notes and highlights from the group. Feel free to join and know that Christians can, and do, unite in honest fellowship and faithful community.
Blessings,
Steve
Here are some other links you may find helpful in your study of this masterpiece:
* The reading guide from the Harper Collins website
* An expansive study guide in PDF format from Gethsemane Lutheran Church's Bible Resources page
* Christian e-Course Screwtape Letters website that includes synopsis, analysis, Lewis bio, an in-depth study guide, forum and links to other C.S. Lewis sites
* Apparently there's even a stage version of this — coming to Washington DC. Visit the site and check out the video. Looks incredible — I'd love to see it!