Screwtape VS. The Church
Letters on Exposing and Expelling Your Church's Demons
Mark R. Barnard
BOOK REVIEW

In a world where the spiritual battles rage behind closed church doors, Screwtape VS. The Church: Letters on Exposing and Expelling Your Church's Demons by Mark R. Barnard emerges as a clarion call, a piercing examination of the very fabric of our faith communities. This book is no mere collection of thoughts; it is an audacious confrontation with the hidden demons that plague our houses of worship-urging every believer to confront the shadows lurking within.
Barnard takes a unique and provocative approach by channeling the voice of Screwtape, a character familiar to fans of C.S. Lewis's The Screwtape Letters. He adopts this diabolical perspective but invigorates it with a fresh urgency that reflects the contemporary church's struggles. The author categorically dissects the insidious influences that disrupt spiritual growth and unity-like gossip, resentment, and hypocrisy-and presents strategies for expelling these festering sins from congregational life.
As you delve into this riveting text, you'll find that Barnard's writing crackles with energy. He doesn't just state facts; he challenges you to look inwards, to face uncomfortable truths about your faith community and even yourself. This isn't just a book; it's a pivotal step towards self-examination and spiritual awakening. The letters are not only clever; they are laced with a potent mix of humor and gravity, drawing you into the captivating tension between good and evil.
Readers have been quick to express their thoughts on this bold work. Some praise Barnard for his ability to tackle difficult subjects with both reverence and radical honesty. "It opened my eyes to the toxic elements that were present in my own church," one reader reflects, underscoring the book's potential to spark vital conversations. Others, however, argue that Barnard's reliance on a character like Screwtape may undermine the seriousness of the subject, suggesting that such an approach trivializes real spiritual warfare. Yet, it is precisely this tension that makes the book so compelling.
The impact of Screwtape VS. The Church transcends its pages; it has influenced church leaders and laypeople alike to create healthier, more vibrant spiritual environments. The strategies Barnard outlines resonate with those seeking unity and purity within their communities, calling upon every believer to cast off complacency. The emotional stakes in this battle are high, as Barnard forces us to confront whether our churches are thriving sanctuaries or breeding grounds for discord.
As you journey through these letters, the essence of Barnard's message becomes clear: real change in the church requires more than just awareness-it demands action. You're prompted to question your role in promoting either healing or hurt within your community. This book is a rallying cry for transformation; it invites you to be an instrument of change against the spiritual decay that threatens to overwhelm.
Mark R. Barnard's work is a mirror reflecting the struggles of the modern church, urging you to see beyond the surface and fight for a faith community that stands strong against the scheming of darkness. Ignoring his insights isn't just a disservice to your own growth but a missed opportunity to elevate your church into its intended glory. Together, let's expose the demons, embrace the light, and forge a path toward the church that God envisions. The question remains-are you ready to confront the demons among us? 💔✨️
📖 Screwtape VS. The Church: Letters on Exposing and Expelling Your Church's Demons
✍ by Mark R. Barnard
🧾 120 pages
2018
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