Nothing But The Truth

Nothing But the Truth

In his Modern Man and his Categories of Thought, C S Lewis makes this perceptive observation:

Man is becoming as narrowly ‘practical’ as the irrational animals. In lecturing to popular audiences, I have repeatedly found it almost impossible to make them understand that I recommended Christianity because I thought its affirmations to be objectively true. They are simply not interested in questions of truth or falsehood. They only want to know if it will be comforting, or ‘inspiring’ or socially useful” (my emphasis)

Sadly, if Lewis was lecturing to such popular audiences today, he would find them even less interested in questions of truth or falsehood and even more committed to the view that belief systems are only of real value if they comfort, inspire or offer practical social benefits. In a society which shows little interest in the truth which sets us free, vast sums of money are spent on books and tapes which promise to help us “explore the inner self,” to “release the power within”, or to “rediscover our godhood.” Pilate’s question “What is truth?” may have been asked with cynicism, but today’s burning question is “How can I improve my self-esteem?” because in the minds of many, all of humanity’s ills can be traced back to the failure to love oneself.

Fallen humanity’s desire is for a man-centered, feel-good, ego-massaging message (e. g “you will be like God!” [Gen 3:5]), but his deepest need is to recognize his frailty and his lost condition. As the pillar and support of the truth, the church must never forget this fact. Touchy-feely stories do not save – the story of Calvary does. Blood atonement for sin, repentance and holy living may not have the appeal of the New Age mantras (“I am God, I am God”) or social justice imperatives (diversity, equity and inclusion), but these are part of the only message which offers hope. The Gospel does not promise ease or popularity; instead,  it confronts human complacency and equips Christ’s followers with the courage to resist the pull of a godless culture.

Rex.