Philosophy: Handmaiden of Theology

The 'Handbook of Christian Apologetics' is a comprehensive guide that addresses common questions and objections to Christian beliefs. Written by Peter Kreeft and Ronald Tacelli, the book covers a wide range of topics, including the existence of God, the problem of evil, and the reliability of the Bible. The authors employ clear and logical arguments to defend Christian faith, drawing upon philosophy, theology, and historical evidence. The handbook is designed to equip readers with the tools to engage in thoughtful discussions and provide reasoned responses to skeptical challenges. It serves as a valuable resource for both beginners and advanced students of apologetics.

In 'The Problem of Pain', C.S. Lewis addresses the age-old question of how a good and all-powerful God can permit pain and suffering. Lewis argues that human suffering is a consequence of the existence of evil and free will, and that God uses suffering as a tool to draw us nearer to Him. He categorizes pain as both physical and emotional, serving as a warning signal that alerts us to potential harm and compels us to make necessary changes. Lewis also discusses the Fall of Man and how it led to chaos and disaster, emphasizing that God's goodness is not negated by suffering but rather evidenced through His merciful intervention. The book concludes by reassuring that God's wisdom is infinitely superior to ours and that pain eventually leads us back to a loving relationship with our Creator.

The Dialogues of Plato are a series of philosophical works that cover a broad spectrum of topics. These dialogues are categorized into three periods: early, middle, and late. The early dialogues, such as 'Apology' and 'Crito', focus on Socratic method and ethical questions. The middle period includes works like 'The Republic' and 'Phaedo', where Plato develops his own philosophical views, including the theory of Forms and the nature of justice and the soul. The late dialogues, such as 'Theaetetus' and 'Laws', are more didactic and less dramatic, delving into metaphysics and the nature of reality. These dialogues are renowned for their exploration of central philosophical questions, including the nature of justice, the ideal society, the immortality of the soul, and the distinction between the world of senses and the world of Forms.

Thomas Merton's "Seven Story Mountain" is a spiritual autobiography that recounts his journey from a restless youth to finding peace and purpose as a Trappist monk. The book details his early life, marked by rebellion and a search for meaning, and his eventual conversion to Catholicism. Merton's exploration of faith, doubt, and the complexities of human experience resonates deeply with readers. He reflects on his monastic life, his intellectual pursuits, and his growing awareness of social and political issues. The book remains a classic of spiritual literature, offering insights into the search for meaning and the transformative power of faith.

In 'Miracles', C.S. Lewis argues that miracles are not statistically anomalous events but rather 'an interference with Nature by supernatural power'. He challenges rationalists and naturalists by presenting a case for the possibility of miracles, defining them as events that do not break the laws of nature but rather operate outside of them. Lewis does not attempt to prove the historical accuracy of Christian miracles but instead lays a philosophical foundation for understanding and accepting the possibility of miracles. The book is a significant work in Christian apologetics, using lucid exposition and illuminating metaphors to make its case.

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.