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Four-loves Quote by C. S. LEWIS

“There seems no reason for describing as hypocritical the short-lived piety of those whose religion fades away once they have emerged from 'danger, necessity, or tribulation.' Why should they not have been sincere? They were desperate and they howled for help. Who wouldn't?” quote by C. S. LEWIS
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““There seems no reason for describing as hypocritical the short-lived piety of those whose religion fades away once they have emerged from 'danger, necessity, or tribulation.' Why should they not have been sincere? They were desperate and they howled for help. Who wouldn't?””

C. S. LEWIS

About This Quote

Source Book: The Problem of Pain, C. S. Lewis, 1940

People may turn to religion in crisis, but their faith can fade once the crisis ends, yet their desperation was genuine.

In simple terms: Crisis‑driven faith can be sincere even if temporary.

Key Takeaway

Recognize compassion for those in distress.

Themes

faith desperation humanity hypocrisy sincerity

Mood

empathetic reflective

Type

philosophical theological

When to use this quote

  • prisoner of war
  • natural disaster survivors
  • personal loss
  • health crises

Key Concepts

theology psychology existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does genuine desperation reveal about belief?
  • How should we judge faith that ends with the crisis?
A Different Perspective

Sincerity may be questioned when faith is short‑lived.

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