Between Interpretation and Imagination

A New Testament scholar illuminates C. S. Lewis’s writings on the Bible In this highly original study, New Testament scholar Leslie Baynes illuminates C. S. Lewis’s writing on the Bible. She reveals never-before published notes Lewis wrote in his own books that offer unique insight into his thinking on Scripture, and she identifies the figures who shaped his approach to biblical interpretation: Charles Gore, James Moffatt, George MacDonald, Austin Farrer, and more. While sympathetic to Lewis’s work, Baynes uncovers problems, too. These hinge upon his understanding of the Gospel of John—as evidenced by essays like “Modern Theology and Biblical Criticism” and the “Liar, Lunatic, Lord” argument. The controversies Lewis takes up in these arguments encompass fundamental questions in Christian thought, and his responses to them have formed the minds of his readers for generations. At the same time, Baynes highlights the subtle beauty of his use of Scripture in the