A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
C. S. LewisRead
We who defend Christianity find ourselves constantly opposed not by the irreligion of our headers but by their real religion.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the challenge of defending Christianity against those who practice a different but serious belief system.
C. S. Lewis points out that when defending Christianity, the opposition often comes not from those who are indifferent or irreligious, but from those who are deeply committed to another belief system. This suggests that the most formidable challenges to faith often arise not from a lack of belief, but rather from the passionate convictions of others, provoking deeper reflection on the nature of belief and spirituality.
Themes
ChristianityDefenseBeliefFaithOpposition
In practice
Example use cases
During a debate on religious beliefs, this quote can illustrate the complexity of opposing viewpoints.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes βI enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
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