The Problem of Pain

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The Problem of Pain – C.S. Lewis

1. Full Citation

Lewis, C.S. (1940) The Problem of Pain. London: Geoffrey Bles.

2. Introduction

In The Problem of Pain, C.S. Lewis tackles one of the most persistent challenges to Christian belief: why a good and omnipotent God permits suffering. Written during the early stages of World War II, the book is both a theological treatise and a pastoral response to human suffering. Lewis distinguishes between intellectual objections to pain and emotional anguish, arguing that pain can be meaningful within a theistic worldview. This review explores the philosophical clarity, theological depth, and enduring impact of Lewis’s theodicy.

3. Author Background and Credentials

C.S. Lewis (1898–1963) was a British scholar of medieval and Renaissance literature, a prolific Christian apologist, and Fellow of Magdalen College, Oxford. His intellectual conversion from atheism to Christianity was influenced by his study of philosophy and myth. Lewis authored numerous works, both theological (e.g., Mere Christianity, Miracles) and literary (The Chronicles of Narnia). He is widely regarded as one of the most influential Christian writers of the 20th century.

4. Summary of Contents

The book is structured in ten chapters, addressing theological and philosophical concerns:

  1. Introduction and the Meaning of Omnipotence
    • Defines omnipotence and its compatibility with the presence of free will and natural laws.
  2. Divine Goodness and Human Freedom
    • Argues that real love and moral responsibility require the possibility of suffering.
  3. The Fall and the Nature of Human Sin
    • Interprets pain as a result of human rebellion and spiritual corruption.
  4. Pain as God’s Megaphone
    • Suggests that God uses pain to awaken spiritual awareness and redirect the will.
  5. Animal Pain
    • Explores the problem of suffering in non-human creatures with speculative humility.
  6. Heaven and Hope
    • Frames pain within the Christian eschatological promise of ultimate restoration.

Lewis does not deny the horrors of suffering but presents it as a necessary context for the development of virtue, repentance, and divine communion.

5. Critical Evaluation

a. Coherence and Argumentation

The book is logically structured and philosophically rigorous, making classical theological arguments accessible to a modern readership. Lewis’s ability to balance reason and imagination strengthens the coherence of his case.

b. Originality and Intellectual Contribution

Lewis draws on Augustinian and Thomistic traditions while offering fresh metaphors and analogies. His clarity of thought, combined with pastoral realism, offers a unique contribution to theodicy.

c. Evidence, Sources, and Method

The method is philosophical-theological, using rational argument, scriptural themes, and personal reflection. While Lewis does not engage deeply with biblical exegesis, he offers a conceptually faithful framework to traditional doctrine.

d. Style and Accessibility

Written in elegant, lucid prose, the book is accessible to general readers and scholars alike. Lewis’s gift for illustration and logical clarity makes profound topics comprehensible.

e. Limitations and Critiques

Some readers may find Lewis’s treatment of animal pain and hell speculative or inadequate. His discussion of the Fall reflects a more mythopoeic reading rather than a literalist interpretation, which may not satisfy all theological camps.

6. Comparative Context

Lewis’s approach differs from:

  • John Hick’s soul-making theodicy, which is more process-oriented
  • Alvin Plantinga’s Free Will Defence, which is more analytic-philosophical
  • Simone Weil or Dostoevsky, who emphasise existential and emotional suffering

Lewis aims to bridge rational apologetics with spiritual insight, making his work uniquely persuasive across audiences.

7. Thematic or Disciplinary Relevance

The book remains a key text in Christian apologetics, pastoral theology, and philosophy of religion. It continues to inform sermons, counselling, and faith formation regarding suffering and divine justice.

8. Reflection or Practical Application

The Problem of Pain has helped countless readers reframe suffering as a space for growth, surrender, and divine encounter. Lewis offers not comfort through denial, but meaning through perspective, fostering spiritual endurance.

9. Conclusion

C.S. Lewis’s The Problem of Pain is a classic of Christian apologetics and philosophy, tackling profound issues with clarity, humility, and hope. It remains a foundational text for addressing suffering through a theological lens, engaging both intellect and soul.

Recommended for: Thinkers, pastors, seekers, and anyone grappling with the tension between divine love and worldly suffering.

10. Other Works by the Same Author

  • Mere Christianity – Rational defence of core Christian beliefs
  • A Grief Observed – Personal and emotional reflection on suffering
  • The Great Divorce – Allegorical vision of heaven and hell
  • Miracles – Philosophical defence of supernaturalism

11. Similar Books by Other Authors

  • Timothy Keller – Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering
  • John Stott – The Cross of Christ (chapters on suffering)
  • Nicholas Wolterstorff – Lament for a Son
  • Alvin Plantinga – God, Freedom, and Evil

12. References (only if external works are cited)

  • Augustine, Confessions
  • Plantinga, A. (1974) God, Freedom, and Evil
  • Keller, T. (2013) Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering
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