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Why C.S. Lewis Didn't Write for Christianity Today

Carl Henry wanted more 'Mere Christianity' and direct theology. Lewis didn't.

The abandoned work he referenced to Henry is likely Letters to Malcolm: Chiefly on Prayer, published posthumously in 1964. It didn't come together until it was set in the context of an imaginary conversation with a fictional friend. It also appears that Lewis opted for a less straightforward apologetic approach following a debate with female philosopher G. E. M. Anscombe at the Socratic Club on the topic of miracles, a debate after which some felt Anscombe was the clear winner. And there are other examples in his public addresses and personal correspondence where Lewis explained with transparency how defending the gospel had taken its toll.

Ultimately, the fall of the Third Reich brought with it an end to Lewis's direct apologetic. And though Britain was at peace, Lewis continued to fight another battle until his death in 1963. Like the deep magic of Narnia, this battle was not with flesh and blood but with powers and principalities. From wartime talks to talking fauns, his excellent life was committed to the advancement of the gospel. Though dead, yet still he speaks.

Dan DeWitt is the dean of Boyce College, the undergraduate school of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. He blogs at Theolatte.com.


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robert Boe

January 14, 2013  2:31pm

the straight forwardness of Martin Luther is why lutherans still love their first pastor . Anything that one imagines of God apart from Christ is only useless thinking and vain idolatry. --Martin Luther Either sin is with you, lying on your shoulders, or it is lying on Christ, the Lamb of God. Now if it is lying on your back, you are lost; but if it is resting on Christ, you are free, and you will be saved. Now choose what you want. --Martin Luther

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Leina W

January 09, 2013  9:57pm

Bless him. One of the greatest of the greats, who accurately discerned the times, and obeyed God accordingly. A consistently beloved Christian author. And, yes, he still speaks!

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Bob Bobo

January 02, 2013  11:48am

CS Lewis writings have and continue to impact my christianity. He speaks today just as intended. Allthough, I do worry about a large number of our culture taking the time to read his works, and delve into them. Lewis's works on faith, cannot be relegated to a facebook post (allthough some have), or the depth undestood by reading his quotes. For those who have ears to hear they will take the time and understand. But I suppose that is the challenge even with other great writers of the faith like Bonehoeffer and such.

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