Mere C.S. Lewis (Mere C.S. Lewis)
Explore every episode of Mere C.S. Lewis
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
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| 30 Aug 2024 | Screwtape Poems | 00:40:49 | |
Get ready for a deep dive into the poetic mind of C.S. Lewis as we prepare for our upcoming discussion on The Screwtape Letters! In this episode, Thornton and a special poetry expert explore three of Lewis's profound poems🖋️✨ Join us as we unpack the darkly insightful "Wormwood," a precursor to the demonic perspectives we'll encounter in The Screwtape Letters. Then, we'll explore the chilling portrayal of human flaws in "Deadly Sins," where Lewis brings to life the classic vices with a sharp, poetic edge. Finally, we'll reflect on "On Being Human," a contemplative piece that delves into the human experience, highlighting the gap between our earthly existence and spiritual beings. Whether you're a longtime Lewis enthusiast or new to his work, this episode is the perfect primer for understanding the themes of temptation, virtue, and humanity in The Screwtape Letters. Tune in and join us on this literary journey through Lewis's poetic explorations! 📚🔥 #CSLewis #Podcast #Poetry #ScrewtapeLetters #Literature #Faith #Temptation #HumanNature Check out Melissa's poetry on Instagram @delRaepoetry and FanStory Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Please like, rate, or subscribe. Check out the new https://merecslewis.com/ | |||
| 29 Sep 2023 | LKL-The Language of Religion (Part 2) | 00:37:36 | |
Andrew and Thornton serve as guests on the Lesser-Known Lewis podcast to talk about Lewis' essay "The Language of Religion". This is part 2 of 2. Check out Lesser-Known Lewis at their website. Connect with us on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email us at merecslewis@gmail.com. | |||
| 21 Nov 2023 | Letters to Malcolm: Chiefly on Prayer | 00:48:54 | |
Andrew and Thornton discuss Lewis' last published book. The conversation covers favorite quotes and their own experiences with prayer. Episode Outline:
References in Episode: C.S. Lewis was Wrong about Psalm 23 Connect with us on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email us at merecslewis@gmail.com. | |||
| 03 Jun 2022 | The Efficacy of Prayer | 00:50:17 | |
Andrew and Thornton discuss another C.S. Lewis essay written at the end of Lewis' life. He talks about how we can know if prayer is effective and how Christians should view prayer.
We had some audio and technical issues so please forgive the low quality.
Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis.
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| 29 Jan 2025 | It All Began with a Picture... | 00:11:19 | |
Check out Magic Mind: https://www.magicmind.com/MERECSLJAN In this episode of The Mere C.S. Lewis Podcast, we dive into C.S. Lewis’ essay “It All Began with a Picture…” 🎨, where he shares how The Chronicles of Narnia first took shape in his imagination. How did a mental image of a faun with an umbrella ☂️ lead to one of the most beloved fantasy series of all time? We’ll explore Lewis’ creative process, the mystery of inspiration, and what his experience teaches us about storytelling and faith. Plus, Thornton gives an overview of the year ahead 📅 and tackles the Chronicles of Narnia reading order controversy 📚🔥—should you read them in publication order or chronological order? Join us for a fascinating discussion on Lewis, imagination, and the stories that shape us! Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Please like, rate, or subscribe. | |||
| 13 Dec 2023 | Surprised by Oxford Review | 00:13:36 | |
Thornton reviews the movie Surprised by Oxford which is inspired by Lewis' memoir Surprised by Joy. Stay tuned until the end of the episode for an exciting announcement.
You can check out the movie here.
You can buy the book here.
Connect with us on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email us at merecslewis@gmail.com.
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| 17 Nov 2023 | Footnote to All Prayers | 00:02:49 | |
In preparation for #CSLewisReadingDay on 29 November, we will read some of our favorite C.S. Lewis poems. You can find out more about the Reading Day here. | |||
| 28 Jun 2024 | That Hideous Strength | 00:47:24 | |
Welcome to The Hideous Strength 🌌✨ – Join hosts Thornton and Carolyn Weber, acclaimed author of Surprised by Oxford 🎓📖, now a major motion picture, as they delve into the gripping world of C.S. Lewis's That Hideous Strength 🏰🌀. Together, they unravel the novel's intricate plot, explore its profound themes of power, morality, and the clash between science and spirituality, and draw parallels to our contemporary world. With Carolyn's rich literary insights and Thornton's engaging commentary, the episode promises a deep dive into the heart of this classic masterpiece. Whether you're a C.S. Lewis aficionado or new to his work, prepare for lively discussions, thoughtful analysis, and a journey through the mind of one of the greatest writers of the 20th century. 🚀✨ #CSLewis #ThatHideousStrength #Literature #SurprisedByOxford #RansomTrilogy Check out the New College Franklin where Carolyn teaches. Check out the book and movie, Surprised by Oxford. Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Please like, rate, or subscribe. Check out the new https://merecslewis.com/ | |||
| 28 Mar 2024 | Religion and Rocketry | 00:59:10 | |
Jordan, from the Lesser-Known Lewis podcast, talks with Thornton about Lewis essay about faith, salvation, and aliens. Check out the LKL podcast at this link. Check out Jordan on Fargo here. Connect with him on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email us at merecslewis@gmail.com. Send a voice message at this link. Please like, rate, or subscribe. Check out the new https://merecslewis.com/ | |||
| 28 Sep 2020 | The Pilgrim’s Regress | 00:41:08 | |
Taylor and Thornton journey through Lewis's first novel after becoming a Christian: The Pilgrim's Regress. Episode Outline:
References in Episode: Discussion about the Female Personifications - Crystal Hurd Blog Notes and Translations for The Pilgrim's Regress Wikipedia - The Pilgrim's Regress Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis | |||
| 22 Apr 2024 | Out of the Silent Planet | 01:28:12 | |
Step into the vivid world of C.S. Lewis' 'Out of the Silent Planet' with Thornton and guest Andrew Lazo! 🌌 Join us as we journey alongside Dr. Elwin Ransom to the mysterious planet of Malacandra, where vibrant landscapes and strange creatures await. From the crimson skies to the jagged mountains, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring adventure that awaits. Links referenced: The “Lost” C. S. Lewis Tapes (rabbitroom.com) A Cosmic Find in The Screwtape Letters - A Pilgrim in Narnia Mere Christians: A C. S. Lewis Conference Tickets, Fri, Apr 26, 2024 at 2:00 PM | Eventbrite For your listening pleasure, the episode ends with Holst's Mercury. Connect with him on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Send a voice message at this link. Please like, rate, or subscribe. Check out the new https://merecslewis.com/ | |||
| 14 Jul 2023 | Transposition | 00:42:34 | |
Andrew and Thornton journey through Lewis's theory of "transposition". Like an orchestral score being transposed for a piano, so are higher i.e. spiritual experiences transposed into natural expressions. Episode Outline:
Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis and merecslewis@gmail.com.
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| 29 Oct 2020 | The Problem of Pain | 01:20:31 | |
Taylor and Thornton journey through Lewis's first pure apologetic work. Episode Outline:
No game this episode for the sake of time. Trust us, we spared you from the super cheesy one we recorded. References in Episode: Wikipedia - The Problem of Pain Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis Special thanks to Jeff Summerville for the new intro and outro music | |||
| 29 Sep 2023 | A Grief Observed | 00:46:28 | |
Andrew and Thornton discuss Lewis' most emotional work where he processes the loss of his wife, Joy. The conversation covers famous quotes from the text, if Lewis went through the five stages of grief, and how this prepares us for our own grief. Episode Outline:
References in Episode: Music A Grief Observed by Heath McNeese Connect with us on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email us at merecslewis@gmail.com. | |||
| 30 Sep 2022 | Reflection on the Psalms | 01:05:00 | |
Andrew and Thornton journey through Lewis's thoughts and meditations on the Bible's book of poetry. Lewis discusses the major themes of the poems and how they have nourished his walk. Episode Outline:
References in Episode: Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis. | |||
| 23 Aug 2020 | C.S. Lewis: A Life | 00:40:27 | |
The biography of our favorite Jack with notes on criticisms of his works, references to him today, and a C.S. Lewis game.
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| 09 Mar 2024 | The Horse and His Boy Stage Play | 00:51:31 | |
Thornton and Andrew have a lovely talk with Nicole Stratton and Justin Swain about their stage adaptation of The Horse and His Boy. The discussion covers all things Narnia (including some breaking news), the creative process, and their philosophy of stage ministry. They performed their play at the Museum of the Bible from 20 January 2023 to 04 March 2023. Be prepared: the episode contains light spoilers for the play. | |||
| 20 Apr 2024 | Science Fiction Poems | 00:07:36 | |
Thornton reads three captivating poems by our favorite legendary author: 'Evolutionary Hymn,' 'Prelude to Space,' and 'Science Fiction Cradle-Song.' Thornton handpicked these gems for their thematic resonance with the beloved Ransom trilogy. Connect with him on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Send a voice message at this link. Please like, rate, or subscribe. Check out the new https://merecslewis.com/
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| 23 Nov 2022 | The Necessity of Chivalry | 00:50:04 | |
Andrew and Thornton journey through Lewis's thoughts on chivalry. Lewis discusses the major themes of the poems and how they have nourished his walk. Episode Outline:
Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis and merecslewis@gmail.com. | |||
| 26 Jul 2024 | The Ransom Trilogy | 00:40:41 | |
Prepare to journey beyond the Silent Planet 🌌✨ – the special episode dedicated to exploring C.S. Lewis's epic Ransom Trilogy! Thornton is joined by Christiana Hale, the insightful author of Deeper Heaven: A Reader's Guide to the Ransom Trilogy 📚🌠. Together, they delve into the rich and imaginative worlds of Out of the Silent Planet, Perelandra, and That Hideous Strength. Discover the profound themes, complex characters, and theological underpinnings that make this trilogy a cornerstone of science fiction and fantasy literature. With Christiana's expert insights, this episode promises to take you on a journey through the cosmos and deep into the heart of Lewis's visionary storytelling. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the series, prepare to see the Ransom Trilogy in a whole new light. Tune in and explore the deeper heavens with us! 🚀✨ #CSLewis #RansomTrilogy #Podcast #DeeperHeaven #SciFi #Literature Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Please like, rate, or subscribe. Check out the new https://merecslewis.com/ | |||
| 17 Mar 2021 | Why I’m Not a Pacifist | 00:38:56 | |
Andrew and Thornton discuss another C.S. Lewis essay set during the beginning years of WWII. Lewis gives an overview of reasoning and the different forms of conscience to explain why he is not a pacifist. Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis. | |||
| 30 Oct 2024 | The Screwtape Letters | 00:32:33 | |
For our special Halloween episode, we’re diving into the sinister world of C.S. Lewis’ The Screwtape Letters —and we’re bringing in a special guest, Rev. Brian McGreevy, to guide us through the shadows! Written during the turmoil of World War II, Lewis crafted this satirical and chilling tale to explore the subtle ways in which evil infiltrates everyday life. Together with Rev. McGreevy, we explore not just the chilling strategies of Screwtape and Wormwood, but also the habits and practices that can protect us from such spiritual pitfalls. We chat about the fascinating way architecture can point us to Heaven, the best way to read and absorb these letters, and speculate on what future Screwtape Letters might address in our modern world. With key excerpts and haunting insights, this episode is the perfect blend of spooky and thought-provoking. So, dim the lights, brew a cup of something warm, and join us for a journey into temptation’s darkest corners. You can find Rev. McGreevy's letter by letter podcast of The Screwtape Letters at this link. Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Please like, rate, or subscribe. | |||
| 19 Mar 2023 | The Four Loves | 00:47:17 | |
Andrew and Thornton journey through Lewis's thoughts on love. Lewis discusses the categories of love, love for humans and non-humans, and the four types of loves. Episode Outline:
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| 11 Aug 2023 | Cartas de Narnia | 00:23:46 | |
Thornton interviews Lucas from Cartas de Narnia. They discuss the affect of Lewis on their lives, his influence on Brazil, and Lucas' favorite Lewis works i.e. The Discarded Image and Till We Have Faces. Stay tuned for more information on C.S. Lewis Reading day on 29 November 2023. You can connect with Lucas on Instagram at Cartas de Narnia or on 'X' aka Twitter at Cartas de Narnia. Connect with us on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email us at merecslewis@gmail.com. | |||
| 15 Jan 2023 | On Forgiveness | 00:40:37 | |
Andrew and Thornton journey through Lewis's thoughts on forgiveness. Lewis discusses the difference between excusing and forgiveness and what the Lord requires of us concerning forgiveness. Episode Outline:
Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis and merecslewis@gmail.com. You can read the essay here: https://www.maitlandpres.org/post/cslewis | |||
| 05 Nov 2023 | Prayer | 00:01:43 | |
In preparation for #CSLewisReadingDay on 29 November, we will read some of our favorite C.S. Lewis poems. You can find out more about the Reading Day here. | |||
| 06 Oct 2023 | Narnian Suite | 00:03:07 | |
In preparation for #CSLewisReadingDay on 29 November, we will read some of our favorite C.S. Lewis poems. You can find out more about the Reading Day here. If you want to learn more about the Narnian Suite poem then click here. | |||
| 24 Nov 2020 | Mere Christianity | 00:55:46 | |
Taylor and Thornton journey through one of Lewis's best-known works. It's the source of many people's conversion or the rejuvenation of their faith, as Thornton and Taylor can attest. Episode Outline:
References in Episode:
Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis Special thanks to Jeff Summerville for the intro and outro music Also, if you want a deeper dive into Mere Christianity then check out the Pints with Jack podcast which goes chapter by chapter. | |||
| 23 Feb 2024 | On Stories | 00:17:08 | |
Thornton lays out the map for the new journey through Lewis' life and writings. He discusses the essay "On Stories" to learn what Lewis had to say about stories, characters, and plot. Connect with him on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email us at merecslewis@gmail.com. Check out the new www.merecslewis.com | |||
| 15 Oct 2023 | The Future of Forestry | 00:02:15 | |
In preparation for #CSLewisReadingDay on 29 November, we will read some of our favorite C.S. Lewis poems.
You can find out more about the Reading Day here.
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| 02 Nov 2021 | The Weight of Glory - Essay | 00:32:28 | |
Andrew and Thornton discuss another C.S. Lewis essay set during the beginning years of WWII. Lewis gives a biblical explanation of glory and what it means for the daily Christian walk. Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis. | |||
| 29 Nov 2023 | CSL Reading Day 2023 | 00:59:12 | |
Andrew and Thornton celebrate #CSLewisReadingDay with discussing their favorite passages of his works (Thornton discusses Chapter 3 and 4 of The Pilgrim's Regress and Andrew shares a part of the essay The Weight of Glory). Plus, they reflect on the first leg of their journey reading all his spiritual works. They give a peak into what's ahead for them and the podcast as well. You can check out the FB Live event here and view it at 7-8pm EST and 7-8pm PST on 29 November 2023. Connect with us on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email us at merecslewis@gmail.com. | |||
| 20 Dec 2021 | Surprised by Joy | 00:56:43 | |
Andrew and Thornton journey through Lewis's memoir. Lewis explains his emotional and spiritual journey from atheism to Christianity. Episode Outline:
References in Episode:
Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis. | |||
| 03 Aug 2021 | Miracles | 00:42:36 | |
Andrew and Thornton journey through Lewis's last formal apologetic work. Lewis's argument helps the brothers see the World and their Faith in a new light. Episode Outline:
References in Episode: Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis. | |||
| 29 Nov 2024 | CSL Reading Day 2024 | 00:08:06 | |
📚✨ As we wrap up 2024, Thornton reflects on a year of diving into C.S. Lewis’ works, with this year’s theme of C.S. Lewis and Friendship guiding the journey. From the joys and challenges of true companionship to the deep spiritual lessons of love and selflessness, this episode explores how Lewis’ insights apply to both friendships and marriages. 💡🤝❤️ Thornton shares how Letter 26 of The Screwtape Letters impacted his understanding of self-giving love, profoundly shaping his marriage and relationships. 💍💬 Celebrate #CSLewisReadingDay with us as we honor the timeless wisdom of Lewis and the friendships that make life richer! 🎙️📖 Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Please like, rate, or subscribe. #MereCSLewisPodcast #Friendship #Love #YearInReview | |||
| 06 May 2022 | The Most Reluctant Convert | 00:28:14 | |
Andrew and Thornton give their review of the recent C.S. Lewis movie "The Most Reluctant Convert".
You can purchase the movie here: https://cslewismovie.com/
Also, here is the Tolkien movie they reference: Tolkien
Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis.
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| 29 Nov 2024 | The Great Divorce | 00:36:34 | |
*Re-Mastered* In this episode we dive into Lewis’s profound spiritual fantasy, The Great Divorce. 🚍🌄 Discover the fascinating background behind the book, from its roots in medieval theology to its bold rebuttal of William Blake’s The Marriage of Heaven and Hell. We break down key moments, like the ghostly bishop’s intellectual pride 🧠❌ and the man with the red lizard’s transformation 🦎🔥➡️🐎.Plus, we’re joined by the insightful David Bates from Pints with Jack 🍻, who shares his thoughts on Lewis’s vision of joy, free will, and redemption. This is an episode full of wisdom, wonder, and hope. Don’t miss it! 🙌📖 You can check out the Pints with Jack podcast here: https://www.pintswithjack.com/. Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Please like, rate, or subscribe. | |||
| 26 May 2024 | On Science Fiction | 00:15:20 | |
Thornton discusses the essay "On Science Fiction" to learn what Lewis had to say about the popular genre and how critics should deal with it. Connect with him on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Check out the new www.merecslewis.com to read a pirate story inspired by C.S. Lewis. | |||
| 09 Mar 2024 | Prince Caspian Stage Play | 00:45:05 | |
Thornton interviews the creative forces behind the Prince Caspian stage play. They talk about their love for Lewis, adaptation decisions, and the future of Lewis' work on stage. The play is running at the Museum of the Bible in Washington D.C. from 01 March to 27 April, 2024. You can purchase tickets at this site. You can learn more about the Academy of Arts and Logos Theater at this site. Let's connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email us at merecslewis@gmail.com. Also, check out the new www.merecslewis.com where I've posted a review of the play. | |||
| 01 Sep 2023 | LKL-The Language of Religion (Part 1) | 00:40:07 | |
Andrew and Thornton serve as guests on the Lesser-Known Lewis podcast to talk about Lewis' essay "The Language of Religion". This is part 1 of 2. Check out Lesser-Known Lewis at their website. Connect with us on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email us at merecslewis@gmail.com. | |||
| 28 Jun 2024 | Perelandra | 00:54:56 | |
Welcome to Perelandra 🌌✨ Join hosts Thornton and John Thompson as they dive deep into the cosmos and discuss the second book in Lewis's Heaven's Trilogy (aka Ransom Trilogy). Explore the lush landscapes of Venus 🌿💫, encounter the profound philosophical and theological themes, and unpack the timeless wisdom of this classic sci-fi masterpiece. Whether you're a longtime admirer of C.S. Lewis 📚👓 or a newcomer to his works, Thornton and John bring fresh perspectives, engaging discussions, and a dash of humor to every episode. Tune in and embark on an interplanetary adventure that will expand your mind and touch your soul! 🚀🪐 Links discussed in the episode: Cambridge House Christian Study Center Perelandra Center for Nature Research Check out the Pints with Jack episode where they discuss the Perelandra Opera: S6E30 – AH – “Perelandra: The Opera”, After Hours with Prof. Judith Wolfe and John Marr - Pints With Jack Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Please like, rate, or subscribe. Check out the new https://merecslewis.com/ | |||
| 03 Feb 2021 | Learning in War-Time | 00:34:53 | |
Thornton and a new guest discuss a sermon Lewis preached at the start of WWII. If you've ever wondered how someone could justify learning and pursuing culture in the midst of chaos, Lewis provides a few answers and things to think about.
Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis
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