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
It costs God nothing, so far as we know, to create nice things: but to convert rebellious wills cost Him crucifixion.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The creation of the world is easy for God, but redeeming humanity requires great sacrifice.
In this quote, C. S. Lewis reflects on the nature of God's relationship with humanity. While God can effortlessly create beautiful things in the world, the act of reconciling human rebellion against Him requires profound sacrifice, culminating in the crucifixion of Jesus. This underscores the depth of love and commitment that God has for humanity, emphasizing that the most significant transformations often come at a great cost.
Themes
SacrificeRedemptionLoveCreationRebellion
In practice
Example use cases
During a church service, while discussing the themes of sacrifice and love.
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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