Book Report: How Should We Then Live? --Francis Schaeffer

 

 

Chapter 1: Ancient Rome

Summary

Schaeffer examines the rise and fall of Ancient Rome, attributing its collapse to moral and spiritual decay. Despite its achievements in infrastructure and governance, Rome’s reliance on pragmatism over enduring values created a fragile society. The culture’s focus on personal peace and affluence led to a loss of civic responsibility, which ultimately weakened the empire from within. Schaeffer draws parallels between Rome and modern Western society, warning that similar issues—such as materialism and moral relativism—threaten contemporary stability.

Reflection

Schaeffer’s analysis of Rome’s reliance on pragmatism prompted me to consider how modern society faces similar challenges. The emphasis on material success and personal comfort often comes at the expense of deeper values. This chapter made me reflect on whether I prioritize convenience over principles in my own decisions. Schaeffer’s comparison to modern times also highlighted the importance of a moral foundation in sustaining both personal integrity and societal cohesion. It reinforced for me the need to ground my decisions in something beyond immediate benefits.

 

Chapter 2: The Middle Ages

Summary

Schaeffer presents the Middle Ages as a time of unity under a biblical worldview. He emphasizes how Christianity influenced art, education, and governance, creating a cohesive society despite its imperfections. While the Church struggled with corruption and power dynamics, its overarching influence provided a framework for meaning and purpose. Schaeffer contrasts this with later periods where human autonomy became central, leading to cultural fragmentation. He also highlights how medieval art and architecture expressed the integration of faith and life.

Reflection

Schaeffer’s portrayal of the Middle Ages challenged me to reconsider how this era is often dismissed. His emphasis on the unifying role of faith made me think about how today’s society often lacks a shared foundation for meaning. This chapter also encouraged me to reflect on how I approach creativity and whether it reflects a broader purpose or simply serves personal goals. The idea that art can express a worldview gave me a new perspective on how to integrate faith into my own creative efforts.

 

Chapter 3: The Renaissance

Summary

Schaeffer explores the Renaissance as a pivotal period that shifted the focus from God to humanity. While the Renaissance celebrated creativity, science, and human achievement, it also introduced the idea of human autonomy as the ultimate authority. This human-centered worldview eventually laid the groundwork for secularism and moral relativism. Schaeffer contrasts the Renaissance with the Reformation, noting that while both emphasized the value of the individual, the Reformation rooted human worth in God’s creation, not in human autonomy. He argues that the Renaissance’s trajectory toward humanism would later lead to the fragmentation seen in modern culture.

Reflection

The Renaissance’s focus on human achievement was both inspiring and sobering. While I appreciate its contributions to art and science, Schaeffer’s critique of its human-centered philosophy reminded me of how easily progress can become self-focused. This chapter made me think about the ways I prioritize my own abilities or successes over relying on God. It also highlighted the importance of anchoring human worth and creativity in something greater than personal ambition. Schaeffer’s distinction between the Renaissance and the Reformation clarified how different foundations—human autonomy versus God’s authority—can lead to vastly different cultural outcomes.

 

Chapter 4: The Reformation

Summary

Schaeffer praises the Reformation for reclaiming the authority of Scripture and emphasizing salvation through faith alone. He credits the movement with transforming not only religious practice but also society, as it reinforced the idea that all individuals have inherent worth before God. Schaeffer contrasts the Reformation’s God-centered worldview with the Renaissance’s human-centered focus, arguing that the Reformation’s emphasis on biblical truth provided a stable foundation for individual freedom and societal progress. He also discusses how the Reformation influenced education, governance, and economic systems, creating a culture rooted in responsibility and purpose.

Reflection

The Reformation’s emphasis on the authority of Scripture stood out to me. It reminded me of how important it is to have a clear and consistent foundation for truth in both personal and societal contexts. Schaeffer’s description of the Reformers’ courage in challenging established norms made me think about how I approach challenges to my own faith. Do I stand firm, or do I compromise to fit in? This chapter also emphasized the lasting impact of biblical principles when they are applied consistently, which encouraged me to think about how I can integrate those principles into my everyday life.

Chapter 5: The Reformation – Continued

Summary

In the new chapter, The Reformation – Continued, Schaeffer expands on the societal and cultural implications of the Reformation. He discusses how the Reformation's return to biblical authority provided a foundation for freedom and societal stability. Unlike the Renaissance, which celebrated human autonomy, the Reformation emphasized individual worth grounded in God’s creation while recognizing human fallibility. Schaeffer highlights the Reformation’s influence on the development of democratic governance, particularly the concept of checks and balances, which stemmed from the acknowledgment of humanity’s sinful nature. He also critiques the Reformation for its shortcomings, noting how racial inequalities and the misuse of wealth persisted in its wake. Despite these failings, Schaeffer argues that the Reformation's principles laid the groundwork for a society that values both freedom and responsibility, rooted in biblical truth.

Reflection

This chapter offered a more nuanced perspective on the Reformation’s impact, highlighting both its strengths and its areas of failure. Schaeffer’s emphasis on the biblical basis for individual freedom resonated with me, particularly his argument that true liberty requires a foundation in absolute truth. This made me reflect on how freedom without responsibility often leads to chaos, a point that feels relevant in today’s cultural climate. His critique of the Reformation’s failure to address issues like racial inequality was thought-provoking, as it reminded me that even transformative movements are not immune to blind spots. This realization encouraged me to think critically about how my own faith and actions address the injustices of our time. Overall, the chapter reinforced the idea that while human efforts are always imperfect, grounding them in God’s truth can still lead to meaningful and lasting change.

 

Chapter 6: The Enlightenment

Summary
The Enlightenment shifted the focus of society from divine revelation to human reason as the ultimate source of truth. While this period brought advancements in science and philosophy, Schaeffer critiques its overconfidence in human autonomy. He argues that the Enlightenment’s rejection of biblical truth led to a fractured worldview, as reason alone could not address the deeper questions of meaning, purpose, and morality. Schaeffer highlights how the Enlightenment’s emphasis on relativism and individualism paved the way for the secularism that dominates much of Western thought today.

Reflection
The Enlightenment’s confidence in human reason made me reflect on how modern culture often places intellect above faith. Schaeffer’s critique of this shift encouraged me to examine where I might rely too heavily on my own understanding instead of seeking wisdom through Scripture. The chapter also reinforced the idea that reason, while valuable, is not sufficient on its own to provide a complete framework for life. It reminded me of the importance of balancing intellectual pursuits with spiritual grounding, ensuring that one complements rather than replaces the other.

Chapter 7: The Rise of Modern Science

Summary
Schaeffer explores the development of modern science, emphasizing how it initially emerged from a biblical worldview. The belief that the universe was orderly and intelligible, because it was created by a rational God, motivated early scientists to explore and understand the natural world. However, Schaeffer laments how science eventually became divorced from its theological roots, leading to a purely materialistic view of the world. He warns that this separation has reduced science to a tool for pragmatism and power, rather than a pursuit of truth and wonder.

Reflection
This chapter gave me a new appreciation for how faith and science can work together. Schaeffer’s emphasis on the theological roots of modern science challenged the common assumption that faith and science are inherently at odds. It made me think about how scientific discovery can be a way to glorify God, as it reflects the order and creativity of His creation. Schaeffer’s critique of the materialistic turn in science also encouraged me to consider how I view technology and progress. Am I using them in ways that honor God, or simply for convenience and efficiency?

Chapter 8: The Breakdown in Philosophy and Science

Summary
In this chapter, Schaeffer discusses how philosophy and science have become fragmented and disconnected from their earlier foundations in a biblical worldview. He traces the transition from a unified perspective of truth, where theology, science, and philosophy were integrated, to a fragmented approach where these disciplines became isolated. Schaeffer critiques modern philosophy for abandoning rational coherence, highlighting existentialism as a response to the despair caused by the failure of human reason to provide meaning. He also examines the consequences of science’s shift toward materialism, arguing that when science is stripped of its theological roots, it becomes mechanistic, treating human beings as nothing more than complex machines. Schaeffer emphasizes that this breakdown has left modern society without a unified framework for understanding the world, leading to confusion and a loss of purpose.

Reflection
Schaeffer’s analysis of the fragmentation in philosophy and science felt especially relevant in a world where disciplines often operate in silos. His critique of science’s move toward materialism challenged me to consider how a purely mechanistic view of life diminishes human dignity. The idea that humans are reduced to “machines” without a transcendent purpose was a sobering reminder of the importance of grounding our understanding of humanity in something greater than empirical data. I also found his critique of existentialism insightful, as it highlighted how the rejection of absolute truth leads to a search for meaning that often ends in despair. This chapter encouraged me to think about the importance of integrating faith with intellectual pursuits, ensuring that my view of the world is both coherent and meaningful.

Chapter 9: Modern Philosophy and Modern Theology

Summary
In this chapter, Schaeffer critiques the developments in modern philosophy and theology, showing how they have further contributed to the fragmentation of Western thought. He traces the shift from rationalism to existentialism, highlighting how modern philosophy increasingly abandoned coherence and embraced subjectivity. Theology followed a similar path, with many theologians moving away from a belief in absolute biblical truth and adopting frameworks like liberal theology, which often prioritized human experience over Scripture. Schaeffer argues that the rejection of a biblical foundation has left modern theology and philosophy without a unified standard for truth, leading to confusion and relativism.

Reflection
Schaeffer’s analysis of modern philosophy and theology felt particularly relevant as I considered how these trends continue to shape contemporary thought. His critique of the move toward subjectivity challenged me to think about the dangers of basing truth solely on personal experience or societal norms. I was especially struck by his observation that when theology departs from Scripture, it loses its power to provide meaningful answers to life’s big questions. This chapter reinforced the importance of staying rooted in biblical truth while engaging with the broader culture. It also encouraged me to examine how I approach philosophical and theological questions, ensuring that my thinking is grounded in a coherent and God-centered framework.

 

 

Chapter 10: Modern Art, Music, Literature, and Films

Summary
In this chapter, Schaeffer broadens his analysis of cultural expression to include films alongside art, music, and literature. He argues that these creative fields have increasingly reflected the despair and fragmentation of a worldview that has rejected absolutes. Modern art moved from a coherent representation of reality to abstraction, mirroring the philosophical shift toward relativism. In music, traditional forms gave way to experimental styles that often embraced chaos and dissonance, such as the works of John Cage. Literature, similarly, turned inward, prioritizing subjective experience over universal themes. Schaeffer includes films as a powerful medium that captures the modern mood, often exploring existential questions but rarely providing hope or resolution. He critiques how these cultural products, while innovative, often lack a foundation of truth, resulting in expressions of despair rather than meaning.

Reflection
This chapter helped me see how deeply philosophy influences culture, even in areas like entertainment and art that I often consume passively. Schaeffer’s critique of modern art and films resonated with me, particularly his point that they often mirror the inner struggles of a society that has lost its grounding. It made me reflect on how the media I engage with shapes my own worldview, sometimes reinforcing themes of confusion or hopelessness. At the same time, Schaeffer’s analysis encouraged me to think critically about how I approach art and media—not simply rejecting modern forms but looking for opportunities to engage them thoughtfully and constructively. This chapter also challenged me to consider how my own creative expressions can offer hope and point to a higher truth in a fragmented cultural landscape.

Chapter 11: Our Society

Summary
In this chapter, Schaeffer critiques modern Western society, focusing on its prioritization of personal peace and affluence over truth and virtue. He argues that the pursuit of comfort and convenience has caused individuals and nations to sacrifice integrity and responsibility. Schaeffer highlights how this mindset contributes to societal fragmentation, as people become more concerned with maintaining their lifestyle than addressing deeper moral and cultural issues. He also warns that this complacency creates a fertile ground for manipulation and the rise of authoritarianism, as people are willing to trade freedom for security when their material comforts are threatened.

Reflection
Schaeffer’s critique of personal peace and affluence struck me as a timely reminder of the dangers of prioritizing comfort over principle. His observation that society often sacrifices truth for convenience challenged me to reflect on my own decisions and values. Am I more concerned with maintaining a sense of ease, or am I willing to make sacrifices for what is right? This chapter also made me think about how a culture’s fixation on material wealth can blind it to larger injustices and deeper needs. It encouraged me to consider how I can live in a way that resists complacency and actively seeks to contribute to the greater good.

Chapter 12: Manipulation and the New Elite

Summary
Schaeffer discusses the rise of a “new elite” composed of technocrats, media influencers, and political leaders who manipulate public opinion to maintain control. He warns that as society becomes increasingly dependent on technology and centralized systems, individuals are losing the ability to think critically and independently. This manipulation, Schaeffer argues, is fueled by the rejection of absolutes, as it creates a vacuum where power and influence take precedence over truth and justice. He also critiques the role of media in shaping culture, emphasizing how it can be used to distort reality and perpetuate false narratives.

Reflection
This chapter was a sobering analysis of how easily people can be influenced by those in power, particularly through technology and media. Schaeffer’s warning about the loss of critical thinking felt especially relevant in today’s age of social media and rapid information exchange. It challenged me to consider how I engage with news and media, ensuring that I approach it with discernment rather than passively accepting what I see or hear. This chapter also reinforced the importance of grounding my perspective in biblical truth, as it provides a stable framework for evaluating the messages and values promoted by culture.

Chapter 13: The Alternatives

Summary
In the final chapter, Schaeffer offers a hopeful vision of how Christians can respond to the cultural and philosophical crises outlined in the book. He emphasizes the importance of living out a biblical worldview in every area of life, from personal relationships to public engagement. Schaeffer encourages Christians to be both courageous and compassionate, standing firm in truth while showing grace to those who hold different beliefs. He also highlights the need for a balanced approach that avoids both authoritarianism and relativism, pointing to the Bible as the ultimate source of guidance for individuals and societies. The chapter concludes with a call to action, urging Christians to be a transformative presence in a fragmented world.

Reflection
This chapter’s emphasis on practical application made me reflect on how I can live out my faith in ways that positively impact those around me. Schaeffer’s call to integrate a biblical worldview into all aspects of life challenged me to think about areas where I might compartmentalize my beliefs instead of letting them shape my decisions fully. His reminder to approach others with both truth and grace was particularly impactful, as it highlighted the importance of balancing conviction with compassion. Overall, this chapter encouraged me to see my faith not as a private matter but as a means of contributing to the renewal and flourishing of society.