This is a persuasive essay written by C.S. Lewis. He states that his reason for writing this is because he has been asked to state what Christians believe. Lewis through out the entire paper states something that Christians believe and then goes to back it up. He also connects what he talks about to his life. In one case, he says, "my argument against God was that the universe seemed so cruel and unjust" (176). Because this is a persuasive piece though, he goes on to tell us why there is wickedness in the world. He gives clear evidence to free agency and states very abruptly, but not rudely, that we all have the ability to make our own decisions. Every question he brings up, he answers. He wants the readers to follow along with him and not literally tell them that they are wrong if they don't believe this. He would not be able to change any bodies mind if he came about this topic in a vicious way. Religion is a tough topic to write about. He has to choose his words very carefully. If he didn’t, he could be saying something he doesn’t actually believe in. His punctuation is also important to notice. Overall, he does a good job of using persuasive language. He doesn't sound offensive and explains himself thoroughly.
I enjoyed this essay; I thought it was a tough subject to talk about, but the author handled delicately and thoughtfully. I found it ironic that Tad Callister quoted it in his talk at conference, I guess we were all just supposed to be very aware of and familiar with this subject. I enjoyed the logical evidence he used to support his argument. It was easy for me, as a reader, to understand and made it easier for me to agree with him. I also thought it was interesting that he initially believed there couldn’t be a God because the world is so unjust. When in reality, that is the way God intended it to be.
ReplyDeleteI think that you bring up a valid point, that he backs up everything he says. Not only that but that he also makes sure to answer any question a non-Christian would have. He thought it all out first and then discussed what he knew would be the conflicting arguments. This may be due to he himself not believing at one point but I am happy that he was able to portray what he believed and what was true with such confidence and clarity. He was forward without being offensive.
ReplyDeletegreat response to the essay, you bring up a lot of valid points. i too found it great that he was able to back up all that he was saying about both christianity as well as other religions. i agree that the way he wrote about this subject was very well done and was sure not to offend anyone.
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