In 'Mere Christianity', C.S. Lewis argues for the existence of God and defends Christian theology. The book is divided into four parts: the first argues for the existence of God based on the 'law of human nature'; the second defends Christian theology, including the 'Liar, lunatic, or Lord' trilemma regarding Jesus Christ; the third explores Christian ethics, including the cardinal and theological virtues; and the fourth discusses the Christian conception of God, particularly the Holy Trinity. Lewis also addresses topics such as free will, morality, sexual ethics, and the institution of marriage. The book is known for its clear and logical presentation of Christian apologetics and has been praised for its straightforward and humorous writing style[1][2][4].
In 'The Great Divorce', C.S. Lewis presents an allegorical narrative where souls from a gray, dreary town (representing hell) are given the opportunity to visit heaven. The story follows the narrator and various ghosts as they encounter spirits in heaven, engaging in dialogues that reveal the nature of their choices and the reasons they remain in hell. The book emphasizes that hell is a self-imposed state, and individuals choose to remain there due to their inability to let go of their earthly attachments and sins. Through these encounters, Lewis explores themes of redemption, the afterlife, and the importance of spiritual choices, underscoring that true joy and salvation are available to those who seek them sincerely.
Published in 1980, 'Michelle Remembers' is a memoir that recounts Michelle Smith's alleged experiences of satanic ritual abuse during her childhood in the 1950s. The book was written based on extensive therapy sessions with Dr. Lawrence Pazder, who used hypnosis and other suggestive techniques to recover Smith's memories. The narrative includes graphic descriptions of rituals, sacrifices, and other forms of abuse, which were later widely discredited due to the lack of physical evidence and the controversial methods used to recover the memories. The book played a significant role in sparking the global 'Satanic Panic' of the 1980s.
This book follows Sally Beth Roe, a young loner, as she navigates a series of bizarre events in the small town of Bacon's Corner. The story involves an attempted murder, a case of mistaken identity, and a ruthless lawsuit against a Christian school, all set against the backdrop of a spiritual battle between angels and demons. The novel explores themes of prayer, spiritual warfare, and the redemptive power of faith. It is a companion volume to Peretti's earlier work, 'This Present Darkness'.
Go Ask Alice is an epistolary novel that chronicles two years of a teenage girl's life as she navigates social acceptance, family relationships, and the dangers of drug addiction. The story begins with the protagonist, known as Alice, who is introduced to drugs unintentionally at a party. This encounter leads her down a path of addiction to various substances, including LSD, marijuana, amphetamines, and heroin. Alice's journey involves her isolation from family and friends, involvement in the drug subculture, and multiple attempts to seek help and achieve sobriety. The book highlights the devastating consequences of drug abuse and the emotional turmoil that accompanies addiction. Despite its controversial authorship, the book serves as a powerful and authentic portrayal of the struggles faced by teenagers and the dangers of drug addiction[2][3][4].
This Present Darkness is set in the small town of Ashton, where a skeptical reporter and a prayerful pastor uncover a sinister New Age plot by the Universal Consciousness Society to control the town and eventually the world. The story intertwines the physical world with the spiritual realm, depicting a war between angels and demons. The novel emphasizes the importance of prayer and spiritual warfare, drawing inspiration from biblical themes such as Ephesians 6:12. It follows the investigations of Marshall Hogan, the new editor of the local newspaper, and Hank Busche, the new pastor, as they confront demonic forces and their human agents, ultimately leading to a climactic battle that decides the fate of Ashton.
The Lord of the Rings, written by J.R.R. Tolkien, is an epic high fantasy novel set in Middle-earth. The story follows Frodo Baggins, a hobbit who inherits the One Ring from his uncle Bilbo. The Ring, forged by Sauron, holds the power to control all other Rings of Power and must be destroyed in the fires of Mount Doom to prevent Sauron's return. Frodo is joined by a fellowship of other characters, including Gandalf the Grey, Samwise Gamgee, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, and Boromir, as they embark on a dangerous quest across Middle-earth. The novel explores themes of good vs. evil, the corrupting influence of power, and the struggle between fate and free will[3][4][5].
The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea team is on spring break, so we’re taking this opportunity to bring you something a little different. In this interview with show creator and host Mike Cosper, we explore how the ripple effects of the Satanic Panic still echo today. You’ll also learn the story behind the series title—and Mike answers a burning question: Has the church ever truly reckoned with its role in the panic?
Then, stick around for a special bonus: some of our favorite moments from the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea livestreams, where we go off-script and deeper into the story with special guests and listeners like you.
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We will be back in one week with an all-new episode.
Devil and the Deep Blue Sea is a production of Christianity Today
Hosted and written by Mike Cosper
Produced by Rebekah Sebastian, with production assistance by Dawn Adams
Sound Design and Mix Engineer: TJ Hester
Sound Design, Animation, and Video: Steve Scheidler
Graphic Design: Nim Ben Reuven
Music by Dirt Poor Robins
Erik Petrik and Mike Cosper are the executive producers of CT Media Podcasts, and Matt Stevens is our senior producer.
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