18. Jesus Warned Us About the Prince of This World | John Ortberg

Apr 30, 2025

The discussion dives into Jesus' powerful message about not letting our hearts be troubled, even amidst dark times. It highlights the reality of evil, likened to the 'prince of this world,' emphasizing that it derives power from distorting good. C.S. Lewis's insights deepen the exploration of this struggle between light and darkness. Personal stories illustrate the profound effects of confronting tragedy and the healing power of love and faith. Ultimately, the conversation encourages us to trust in God's goodness and lean on community for support.

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INSIGHT

Evil Depends on Goodness

Evil cannot exist independently because it depends on good for existence.
Goodness is ultimate, while evil is parasitic, twisting what is inherently good.

INSIGHT

Evil Thrives on Deceit

Evil is hidden behind lies and self-deception.
This deceit is necessary for evil to operate and remain unseen.

ANECDOTE

Family Denial of Evil

Scott Peck recounts a family tragedy involving two sons, one who committed suicide.
The family's denial of the destructive force within exemplifies the hidden nature of evil.

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The Road Less Traveled

M. Scott Peck

In this book, M. Scott Peck uses his experience as a psychiatrist to guide readers through the challenges of life. He argues that life is inherently difficult and that spiritual growth and self-awareness can only be achieved by confronting and overcoming these difficulties. The book is divided into four parts, focusing on discipline, love, spiritual growth, and the concept of grace. Peck emphasizes the importance of discipline in delaying gratification, accepting responsibility, dedicating oneself to truth, and balancing conflicting factors. He also discusses the myths and realities of love and how it supports spiritual evolution. The book highlights that avoiding problems leads to decreased growth and increased suffering, while facing them can lead to greater self-knowledge and inner peace[1][2][5].

The Screwtape Letters

C.S. Lewis

The Screwtape Letters is a Christian apologetic novel written in a satirical, epistolary style. It consists of 31 letters from Screwtape, a highly placed assistant to 'Our Father Below' (the Devil), to his nephew Wormwood, a novice demon tasked with securing the damnation of an ordinary young man. The letters provide advice on various methods of undermining God's influence and promoting abandonment of God, while offering insights into human nature and the Bible. The book is a profound and striking narrative on spiritual warfare and the power of the devil, highlighting the subtle forms of sin such as vanity, pride, and distraction that can lead humans away from God[1][3][4].

People of the lie

The Hope for Healing Human Evil

M. Scott Peck

In 'People of the Lie: The Hope for Healing Human Evil,' Dr. M. Scott Peck delves into the psychology of human evil, presenting case studies from his psychiatric practice to illustrate the destructive behavior of individuals who refuse to acknowledge their own flaws and instead project their failures onto others. The book distinguishes between ordinary sin and evil, emphasizing that evil arises from a persistent refusal to acknowledge one's own sins. Peck also explores themes of possession, exorcism, and group evil, using examples such as the My Lai massacre. He approaches these topics from a distinctly Christian perspective, arguing that spiritual healing is crucial in addressing human evil. The book is both disturbing and fascinating, offering a unique approach to understanding and combating human evil.