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Questions and Answers
How does Screwtape encourage Wormwood to keep his patient from praying altogether?
By contrasting God's direction for perseverance in prayer.
What does Lewis refer to in the comment about the 'parrot-like nature' of prayers?
It refers to the reading or reciting of prayers learned in childhood.
How does Jesus respond to the question of prayer in Matthew 6:5-9?
He emphasizes that prayer is an issue of the heart.
What is the difference between a 'vaguely devotional mood' and a 'prayer of silence'?
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What sort of balance must occur between emotions and formal prayers as suggested in John 4:24?
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How does 1 John 1:9 relate to praying for forgiveness?
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What does Screwtape mean when he says humans don't 'start from a direct perception of Him'?
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What mental images of God do we create in our minds?
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Why does Screwtape suggest we do not desire the 'real nakedness of the soul'?
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What does God say in Ecclesiastes 5:4 about making bold claims in prayer?
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Study Notes
Prayer and Perseverance
- Screwtape's strategy emphasizes preventing the patient from praying, contrasting with God's call for perseverance in prayer as highlighted in Luke 18:1, Colossians 4:2, and 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.
Nature of Prayer
- Lewis criticizes "parrot-like" prayers, where prayers are recited without genuine heart and understanding, often stemming from childhood familiarity or traditional liturgies.
Heart of Prayer
- Jesus teaches that prayer reflects the heart rather than public image, warning against praying for the mere appearance of piety, favoring sincere prayers that seek God humbly.
Devotional State vs. Genuine Prayer
- A superficial emotional state is mistaken for true prayer; real prayer engages the heart rather than just creating a devotional atmosphere and benefits from sincere communication with God.
Balance in Prayer
- Acknowledges the variety in prayers found in Scripture, highlighting the need for balance between emotional spontaneity and structured prayers, as true worship aims for spirit and truth combined.
Forgiveness and Feelings
- Clarifies that 1 John 1:9 asserts forgiveness upon confession, emphasizing that feelings do not dictate our forgiveness status, which can lead to internal struggles over past regrets.
Perception of God
- Screwtape points out the challenge of not having a direct visual perception of God, which can be manipulated to divert genuine prayer focus away from God.
Mental Images of God
- Individuals create varied mental images of God based on personal beliefs and influences, such as biblical figures or fictional characters that represent divine qualities.
Transparency in Prayer
- True prayer involves vulnerability and transparency before God, akin to exposing one's soul, which can be uncomfortable due to accountability for actions and motives.
Promises in Prayer
- Ecclesiastes 5:4 warns against making hollow promises to God; such claims can be disingenuous, leading to a lack of true commitment and God's displeasure with empty words.
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Description
Explore the profound teachings on prayer as illustrated in C.S. Lewis's 'The Screwtape Letters'. This quiz delves into the nature, heart, and genuine practice of prayer, contrasting superficiality with sincere communication with God. Test your understanding of biblical perspectives on perseverance in prayer and the importance of authenticity.
