C.S. Lewis on Politics and the Good Society

C. S. Lewis is generally regarded as the foremost Christian thinker and writer of the 20th century. A first-rate scholar, philosopher, apologist, theologian, literary critic, science fiction writer, poet, and author of children's fantasy novels, he wrote with charm, wit, insight and eloquence.

Lewis was neither a professional philosopher, theologian, Bible scholar, historian, psychologist, nor a social scientist, but he thought and wrote perceptively on all these subjects. A rarity among intellectuals, he integrated both reason and imagination into his life and works. Lewis understood that unless conditioned by humility and Christian discipline, reason tends to solidify into sterile Rationalism while imagination tends to drift toward idealistic Romanticism. Therefore, Christian maturity necessitates a thoughtful and faithful integration of both mind and heart.

Although Lewis' writings on political philosophy are often overlooked, in fact he was as acute and perceptive in this vital area of life as in other aspects of Christian discipleship. Lewis understood that Christianity is more than a religion and more than personal piety. As a life-transforming relationship with God via faith in Jesus Christ, Christian faith is a lifestyle and a comprehensive worldview that should encompass all the pertinent issues of life - including one's social and political values and beliefs.

Lewis' views on political philosophy are as relevant today as when he wrote them, and all Christians who take holistic discipleship and their citizenship responsibilities seriously will benefit from his insights and wisdom.

Jefrey Breshears, Ph.D., is an historian, author, and the president of The Areopagus, a Christian education organization in the Atlanta area. As a university history professor Dr. Breshears taught ancient history, philosophy and religion and United States history, and The Areopagus offers substantive courses on a wide range of subjects in Christian history, apologetics, and contemporary cultural issues.

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