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  • Was “The Toast from Hell” Added to Bury C.S. Lewis’s Truth About Evil?
    2025/08/09

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    The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis was first published in February 1942 as a series of epistolary satirical letters from a senior demon, Screwtape, instructing his nephew Wormwood on tempting a human soul. It was originally serialized in The Guardian during WWII. It was a weekly Anglican church newspaper based in London, founded in 1846. Not to be confused with today’s Guardian Newspaper.

    Early editions of the Screwtape Letters never included the “Toast from Hell” or the other title, “Screwtape Proposes a Toast” Written in 1959 this short sequel takes the form of a devilish after-dinner address by Screwtape at the Tempters' Training College and was added to later editions of the book release.

    C.S. Lewis himself never labeled The Screwtape Letters as “satire.” There is talk that he only wrote 31 letters as the subject matter was very heavy and weighed on him.

    In his own introductions and letters, Lewis usually called it a series of letters or a fantasy in reverse, and sometimes just “a little fun” he had writing in the voice of a senior tempter.

    Publishers quickly saw “satire” as a useful marketing hook.

    By the time the omnibus editions with Screwtape Proposes a Toast appeared in 1961, back covers and dust jackets openly called it “a classic of religious satire.”

    Lewis’s private correspondence shows that he was wary of the term “satire,” partly because satire implies ridicule of people, whereas his aim was to illuminate spiritual warfare and human frailty. He preferred to think of it as diabolical correspondence or “theology in reverse.”

    When the Toast was added, the satirical label stuck even harder because of its social commentary on education and democracy. With John Cleese of Monty Python fame narrating it in 1999, the push for it not to be taken as seriously as C.S. Lewis intended continued.

    The question has to be asked: Was it just a money decision by the publishers, or was it also an attempt to hide what Lewis was revealing about spiritual warfare in our lives and confronting that evil?

    We remastered the recordings after we found them openly available online, but in poor audio quality. Here for your enjoyment is the Toast from Hell.

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    41 分
  • Mere Christianity - Letter #25: Biblical Easter Eggs in the Screwtape Letters: A Theological Journey
    2025/07/31

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    Limited copies available. Release date: September 2025. Bless a friend with a copy.

    https://screwtapeletterspodcast.com/confronting-evil-in-our-time-the-book/

    The podcast episode explores the depth and intentionality behind C.S. Lewis's "The Screwtape Letters," highlighting how Lewis subtly weaves biblical motifs and spiritual truths into his writing. The hosts appreciate Lewis’s creative use of "Easter eggs" from scripture and his nuanced understanding of Christianity, emphasizing that while his insights are profound, Lewis remains a fallible human and his letters are not infallible scripture. Their discussion recognizes Lewis’s ability to articulate complex Christian themes and his clear distinction between core and non-core beliefs in the faith.

    A key topic centers on the dangers of adding anything to the core message of the gospel, summarized as “Jesus plus anything ruins everything.” Drawing from Galatians and Lewis’s concept of “Mere Christianity,” the hosts warn against the common tendency among Christians to conflate faith with political ideologies or cultural movements. They stress the importance of keeping the gospel pure and caution that even well-meaning causes—be it political activism, social justice, or specific church doctrines—should not be treated as essential to salvation or as grounds for division among believers.

    Throughout the conversation, the hosts reflect on contemporary examples where Christians add to the gospel, such as justifying moral compromises or merging faith with partisan identity. They lament how such distortions lead to division, undermine the church’s witness, and risk turning faith into a tool for personal or political ends. Ultimately, they advocate for letting the gospel inform all areas of life without allowing external influences to reshape or dilute the central truth of Christianity, urging listeners to pursue spiritual growth with grace, discernment, and fidelity to the unchanging foundations of the faith.

    Look out for our upcoming book "Confronting Evil in Our Time,” which will be released this year.

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    19 分
  • Spiritual Pride - Letter #24: Biblical Easter Eggs in the Screwtape Letters: A Theological Journey
    2025/07/21

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    Limited copies available. Release date: September 2025. Bless a friend with a copy.

    The episode opens with the hosts highlighting the importance of prayer and faith within the Christian community, sharing a personal request for prayers for a sick child and recognizing how acts of faith and gratitude can inspire others. The hosts emphasize humility, noting that no one is more special than another in God’s eyes, and offer encouragement for collective support and outreach among listeners.

    Diving into “The Screwtape Letters,” the discussion centers on the subtle tactic of spiritual pride, as depicted in Lewis’s narrative. They unpack the scenario where the demonic strategy shifts from typical temptations to leveraging the patient’s sense of belonging and superiority in a particularly pious Christian circle. Drawing from scriptural examples, such as Paul’s warning in Philippians and Jesus’s critique of the Pharisees, they explore how knowledge and zeal in faith—though positive in themselves—can easily be twisted into pride, exclusivity, and a sense of being ‘holier than thou.’ Both hosts reflect on personal experiences in ministry and church, warning of cliquishness, the dangers of prioritizing doctrinal correctness or spiritual status over genuine care, and how this can stifle authentic spiritual growth or community.

    The episode concludes by striking a balance between truth and grace, pointing out that while confronting false teachings and upholding sound doctrine is vital, it must be paired with compassion and humility. The hosts caution against forming exclusive cliques and urge listeners to remain open, welcoming, and grounded in both love and truth. They note how Lewis may have intentionally juxtaposed letters addressing discernment and pride to remind believers that a mature Christian walk requires both a commitment to truth and an attitude of grace, ensuring that neither becomes a source of self-righteousness or division.

    Look out for our upcoming book "Confronting Evil in Our Time,” which will be released this year.

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    24 分
  • Satan Himself Masquerades as an Angel of Light - Letter #23: Biblical Easter Eggs in the Screwtape Letters: A Theological Journey
    2025/07/17

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    “Letter 23 is so powerful.” Ian and Galen, hosts of the Screwtape Letters Podcast: Confronting Evil in Our Time, explore the biblical "Easter eggs" implanted by C.S. Lewis in each letter of his classic work. Ian notes this particular letter was omitted from popular abridged audio versions. They discuss how this omission could be tied to its strong Christian messaging and the inherent power of its theological insights. The Easter Egg centers on Lewis's use of the phrase “Angel of Light,” drawn directly from 2 Corinthians 11:14, highlighting it as a core strategy in Satan’s playbook: to deceive believers not through obvious evil, but by masquerading as goodness and twisting spiritual truths.

    They delve into how Satan's method is not creative invention but clever distortion, using aspects of God's own playbook, repackaging virtue and truth to mislead. This includes tempting people to redefine Jesus as merely a historical figure, a social reformer, or even a "celestial butler," rather than recognizing His divine authority. The hosts reflect on how these deceptions can infiltrate personal faith, churches, and larger culture, urging listeners to discern carefully the difference between true spiritual light and counterfeit goodness. They tie in scriptural examples, such as the devil's temptation of Eve and Jesus in the wilderness, to illustrate the enduring nature of spiritual deception and the necessity for vigilance and discernment.

    Wrapping up, the hosts emphasize the critical role of grounding oneself in biblical truth and seeking God’s guidance through prayer to resist spiritual counterfeits. They note that the epistles and instructions within the New Testament are not just stories, but practical guides for Christian living. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on contemporary instances where evil is presented as good in their lives or culture and to consider how they can guard themselves against such deception. The episode closes with a call to examine personal beliefs, align them with scriptural truth, and remain alert to the ongoing spiritual battle described by both C.S. Lewis and the Apostle Paul.

    Look out for our upcoming book "Confronting Evil in Our Time,” which will be released this year.

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    Show site www.screwtapeletterspodcast.com

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    20 分
  • At His Right Hand are Pleasures Forevermore - Letter #22: Biblical Easter Eggs in the Screwtape Letters: A Theological Journey
    2025/07/02

    🙏 Reserve your signed, first edition book, “Confronting Evil in Our Time” today!

    Limited copies available. Release date: September 2025. Bless a friend with a copy.

    In this episode of the Screwtape Letters Podcast, the hosts revisit C.S. Lewis’s The Screwtape Letters with a focus on uncovering biblical “Easter eggs” and practical theology relevant to confronting evil in modern times. They emphasize that understanding scripture and discussing its meaning is not just for scholars or pastors, but for everyone. The hosts encourage listeners to read the Bible, engage in open conversations, and not be intimidated by differing interpretations, highlighting the idea of the “priesthood of all believers”—that everyone can have a direct relationship with God.

    A major theme of the discussion centers on how the good things God created—such as pleasure, relationships, and success—can be twisted into vices when misused or taken to excess. Drawing from Psalm 16:11 (“at your right hand are pleasures forevermore”), they stress that true joy and fulfillment are found in God’s presence. The hosts also reflect on the dangers of comfort and wealth leading people away from God, the importance of stewardship and charity, and the need to seek biblical guidance in all areas of life.

    The conversation also touches on the challenges of modern distractions and “noise,” referencing C.S. Lewis’s insight that the devil tries to drown out God’s voice. The hosts share personal experiences with distraction and advocate for intentional silence and time in scripture. They discuss using technology and AI as helpful tools for Bible study, while reminding listeners that nothing replaces direct engagement with God’s word. The episode closes with an encouragement to pursue a deeper relationship with Christ, find joy in God’s design, and resist the distractions that can pull us away from spiritual fulfillment.

    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.

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    23 分
  • We Have Been Bought With A Price - Letter #21: Biblical Easter Eggs in the Screwtape Letters: A Theological Journey
    2025/06/18

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    In this episode of the Screwtape Letters podcast, the hosts delve into Letter 21, focusing on the recurring theme of ownership and stewardship as presented by C.S. Lewis. They discuss how Lewis weaves biblical concepts—sometimes subtly, sometimes overtly—into his letters, particularly the idea that humans do not truly own anything in this world. Instead, everything we have, from our bodies to our possessions and even our time, is on loan from God. This is underscored by references to scripture, such as 1 Corinthians 6, which reminds believers that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and that they are "not your own," having been "bought with a price"—a call to glorify God with all aspects of life.

    The conversation highlights how the notion of ownership often leads to petty selfishness, whether it's being possessive of time, money, or even sexual autonomy. The hosts point out that this attitude is not only spiritually shortsighted but also leads to disappointment and misery, as nothing material can be taken beyond the grave. They draw parallels to cultural stories like Dickens' Scrooge, emphasizing that clinging to possessions or status is ultimately futile. The podcast encourages listeners to adopt a mindset of gratitude and stewardship, recognizing that everything is a gift from God to be used for His glory, rather than something to be hoarded or claimed as personal property.

    Finally, the hosts reflect on the spiritual battle over how we use our lives and resources, noting that both God and Satan vie for influence over our choices. They stress the importance of humility and the responsibility to steward all gifts—children, time, money, talents—for God's purposes. The episode closes with a challenge to shift language and perspective from "my" to "what God has given me," urging listeners to focus on how they can use their blessings to serve others and honor God, rather than falling into the trap of selfishness or materialism.

    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.com

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    13 分
  • Temptations of the Flesh - Letter #20: Biblical Easter Eggs in the Screwtape Letters: A Theological Journey
    2025/06/11

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    The conversation centers on a podcast episode analyzing C.S. Lewis's "The Screwtape Letters," particularly the sections addressing sexuality, temptation, and the archetypes of women that men are drawn to. The hosts discuss Lewis's concepts of the "terrestrial Venus"—a virtuous, down-to-earth woman—and the "infernal Venus"—a woman who is primarily sexually alluring. They unpack how these archetypes are rooted in biblical concepts, referencing Proverbs 31 as a model for the terrestrial Venus and Proverbs 6 and 7 for the infernal Venus. The conversation emphasizes how spiritual and moral choices around sexuality have long-term consequences, with the demonic in Lewis's narrative seeking to lure men away from virtue by exploiting sexual temptation.

    Ian and Galen reflect on the societal implications of these archetypes, noting how both men and women participate in shaping each other's values and behaviors. They critique the effects of the sexual revolution and casual sex, arguing that when women present themselves primarily as objects of sexual desire (infernal Venus), it can devalue relationships and lead to dissatisfaction for both genders. The discussion also touches on the challenges women face regarding fertility and societal expectations, and how the pursuit of short-term pleasure often undermines the potential for deeper, more meaningful relationships. They caution against a purely male-centric or patriarchal interpretation, acknowledging that both men and women make choices that influence the dynamics of love, sex, and marriage.

    Ultimately, the conversation advocates for the pursuit of character and virtue in relationships, suggesting that investing in a partnership with a "terrestrial Venus" leads to greater long-term fulfillment, including a better sexual relationship within marriage. The hosts argue that resisting immediate temptations and choosing delayed gratification not only aligns with biblical teachings but also results in more meaningful and lasting happiness. They conclude that these themes are timeless, with Lewis's observations reflecting enduring human struggles with temptation, virtue, and the search for authentic love

    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.com

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    23 分
  • Love Your God With All Your Heart - Letter #19: Biblical Easter Eggs in the Screwtape Letters: A Theological Journey
    2025/05/29

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    The conversation between Ian and Galen centers on themes of love, sacrifice, and the nature of divine and human relationships, drawing heavily on biblical ideas and C.S. Lewis’s The Screwtape Letters. Jesus teaches that the greatest commandment is to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength,” and the second is like it: “love your neighbor as yourself.” This foundational teaching shapes the entire Christian understanding of love—not as a feeling or an act of self-interest, but as a deliberate, sacrificial choice to seek the good of others and honor God above all else. The love Jesus commands is radical and countercultural, challenging us to look beyond competition and personal gain to embrace self-giving and genuine care for others.

    In reflecting on Jesus’ commandment, we see that true love is best exemplified in His own life and death. Jesus sacrificed Himself on the cross, not for personal glory or out of obligation, but out of profound love for humanity and obedience to God. This act sets the standard for how we ought to love: with patience, kindness, and a willingness to put others before ourselves. Jesus’ love is not limited by conditions or circumstances; it is unconditional, forgiving, and transformative, calling us to live in a way that mirrors His example.

    When we apply Jesus’ teaching to our relationships—whether in marriage, family, or community—we are called to practice love that is patient, selfless, and enduring. This kind of love does not seek its own advantage but rejoices in the well-being and growth of others. It is through living out this greatest commandment that we find true joy, meaning, and fulfillment, and it is this love that ultimately reflects the heart of God and the essence of Jesus’ message to the world.

    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.com

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    23 分