Context: Inspired by C.S. Lewis’s classic – The Screwtape Letters, this fictional series features letters from a senior demon to his young protégé, exposing hell’s subtle strategies against believers. These are not meant to amuse, but to awaken.

This isn’t just satire – it’s a mirror. A sharp one. Because sometimes the enemy’s strategies sound uncomfortably familiar.

My dear Wormwood,

There is a breed of Christian we especially admire: the lukewarm one. He sings, but never surrenders. She prays, but only when convenient. They are the darlings of our department, for nothing advances our cause like a soul convinced they are safe when they are only sedated.

You must keep your patient busy. 

Not with sin, mind you. 

That’s too obvious.

No, fill their calendar with Christian activities. Let them attend church, even serve, but make sure their hearts stay detached. Encourage social media “Christianity,” with verses in captions but vice in secret. Let them post about grace, but never weep over their sin.

They must not hate evil. They must learn to tolerate it. Better still, let them redefine it. Whisper, “You’re not judgmental, you’re just inclusive.” Suggest that zeal is extremism and holiness is legalism. Frame passion as pride. Let them talk about Jesus, just don’t let them walk like or with Him.

They may call Him “Lord,” but do not let them live as if He is. Keep their faith personal and private. Let them blend in. Camouflage is the first cousin of compromise.

And should Heaven ever try to stir their affections through a sermon, a Scripture, or a storm – act quickly. Distract and numb them. 

Soothe them with phrases like “God understands” or “Nobody’s perfect.” Feed them just enough truth to feel full, but never enough to be transformed.

Oh, Wormwood, it is a most delicious irony that some will call Him “Lord, Lord,” and yet He will say, “I never knew you.” It is our hope that your patient ends up among them.

Warmly (though not too warm, we wouldn’t want revival),
Screwtape