ST43: Praying "Deliver Us from Evil" (Slow Prayer)
Apr 16, 2024
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Dive into a thought-provoking exploration of the phrase 'deliver us from evil.' Discover the historical ties to early Christian practices and engage with C.S. Lewis's insights on recognizing evil in modern faith. The discussion delves into personal and communal spirituality, emphasizing humility and the need for self-critique. Themes of betrayal, spiritual vulnerability, and the complexities of contemporary tribalism are also unpacked. Finally, confront the reality of evil, highlighting the importance of prayer and spiritual warfare in facing malevolence.
23:52
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Quick takeaways
The podcast explores the multifaceted nature of evil, urging modern listeners to acknowledge its reality rather than dismiss it.
A transformative understanding of rescue involves recognizing struggles and serving a higher purpose, challenging contemporary notions of freedom.
Deep dives
The Complexity of Evil
The discussion emphasizes the multifaceted nature of evil, addressing its spiritual, political, and personal dimensions. The podcast highlights that while some traditions may focus on magical amulets historically used by Christians to ward off evil, there is a need to reassess how modern individuals interact with the concept of evil. C.S. Lewis's perspective, which posits that disbelief in evil and an unhealthy fascination with it are equally misplaced, leads to an exploration of whether contemporary society underestimates the reality of evil. The prayer to be 'delivered from evil' serves as a reminder to confront the pervasive presence of evil that can exist even within community settings, not just in the external world.
Self-Critique and Humility
The dialogue introduces the importance of self-critique in recognizing the potential for evil within oneself and the community. The podcast relates this idea to a personal anecdote involving a faculty meeting where members expressed awareness of their own shortcomings, echoing a biblical principle of self-examination. The phrase 'deliver us from evil' implies a collective acknowledgment that individuals and communities are not immune to evil influences, suggesting that humility is essential in facing moral failings. This self-reflective aspect fosters a culture of accountability that is considered a core tenet of the Christian faith.
The Nature of Rescue and Redemption
The podcast reflects on the concept of rescue as not merely the absence of suffering but as a transformative experience with enduring effects. Using examples from biblical narratives, it articulates that true liberation involves acknowledgment of struggles and pain, with the promise of hope that surpasses current difficulties. This perspective challenges contemporary notions of freedom that emphasize individual rights and personal happiness, proposing instead that genuine freedom is rooted in serving a higher purpose. By framing deliverance and rescue within the context of serving God, the conversation underscores the necessity of recognizing spiritual warfare as a vital aspect of the faithful life.
AJ and Nijay finish out their series on the Lord's Prayer and how to process the prayer Jesus taught us and learn how to pray slowly and authentically before God. Can we (smarty-pants moderns) really believe in evil? Should we fear evil? What does deliverance/rescue look like? Listen in—and please give Slow Theology and rating on your preferred listening app.