The Screwtape Letters
As a heads up, if you’re not a Christian or not familiar with Christianity or know about the Bible, this may be challenging for you to understand due to the references and the topic. This addresses Christian theological issues, like temptation and trying to resist said temptation.
For books that are personal growth, my rating will be “do I recommend it?” The majority of fiction books will have a star rating and some non-fiction books as well.
The main protagonist is a demon named Screwtape and he’s talking to their nephew, Wormwood, who’s new to the temptation game. The historical context is World War II and the goal for Wormwood to get his client to be damned to Hell.
As I read, I felt more equipped to fight against temptation. In the beginning, it took a minute for it to begin to click in my mind but once it did, it was easy to follow. As a believer, I enjoyed seeing and recognizing scripture throughout it. C.S. Lewis is a fantastic writer (in my opinion) and the way he writes about his beliefs doesn’t shy away from the truth but is done in a way that isn’t too aggressive and off-putting.
His way of writing has an element of honesty that also can empower you. I read this book and felt that I know how the secret code to win battles when I fight against Satan.
Satan is a one-trick pony that has been working on his craft for generations. It’s the same thing but packaged differently.
They’re well aware of what they’re doing and who God is. All because they know doesn’t mean that they have the power. We have more power than we think we do. What Jesus did on the cross gave us that power.
God wants us and He will always chase us. The jealousy and hatred Satan has for us are abundantly clear. We have the chance to turn from our sin and run to the Father, he does not. He will give us half-truths and tempt us.
We have more power than we think and believe we do, especially in Jesus. There is power in his name. Use it.
It’s a short read and includes “Screwtape Proposes a Toast”, think of it as a sequel. The total page number count is 209! You can finish it in a day or two (depending on your schedule).
At the end of the day, do I recommend this book? I do!
Have you read this book? What were your thoughts?