C.S. Lewis and the Longing for God: The Gospel and Deep Felt Need

Embedded in each of us are deep-felt needs that, when properly understood, reveal the heart’s quest for God. As Augustine said, ‘Our hearts are restless until they find their rest in Thee’. Understanding and recognising these longings in our own lives will make us better at connecting the Gospel to the deep-felt needs in the hearts of all we meet. This Master Class will explore these longings and how to segue from the topic of longings to a presentation of the Gospel.

1. Captivating A Restless Culture

Where do you see God-ward longing even in our very secularized world? In this talk, we will reflect on the restless culture and how God can leverage our circumstances for a Gospel impact.

2. Learning the Art of Listening for Longings

God’s wooing of each person is unique. How can we discover what he is already doing in each person we meet? In this section, we will learn the art of listening for longings.

3. Locating the Deep Felt-Needs of Our Hearts

C. S. Lewis observed several deep-felt needs that, looked at honestly, point us to a desire for the Gospel. What are these deep, and very common, longings of the heart? We will identify and explore the impact of these longings in our lives.

4. Making Sense of a Weary World

What in the world is wrong with the world? In this talk, we will unpack the reality of human brokenness and how it can actually be an asset to sharing the Good News.

5. Pointing People to Their Ultimate Longings

Our earthly longings often point toward much greater heavenly longings. How can we segue from these deep-felt needs to the Gospel message? We will explore what it looks like to lead people to their ultimate longing for Christ.