

#229 Alister McGrath: Reflecting on CS Lewis' work as a theologian
6 snips Sep 29, 2025
Joining Ruth Jackson is Alister McGrath, a renowned theologian and author who has extensively studied C.S. Lewis. They dive deep into Lewis’s role as a theologian, discussing how he uses narrative to convey complex theological ideas. Alister highlights Lewis’s influence on modern Christian thought and his impact on education. They also address critiques of Lewis's approach while defending his imaginative theological style. Lastly, Alister reflects on how Lewis shaped his own work, emphasizing the power of stories in theology.
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Theology As Storytelling
- C.S. Lewis treats theology as storytelling that anchors belief in reality.
- He argues retelling the Christian story engages imagination and reveals existential significance.
Reject Chronological Snobbery
- Lewis warns against 'chronological snobbery' and urges rediscovery of past theologians.
- He shows earlier Christian writers can speak powerfully to contemporary concerns.
Theology For A Post‑Rational Age
- Lewis connects with a post-rational culture by valuing imagination, intuition and feeling alongside reason.
- His approach offers theology a richer language to engage modern human experience.