The Life and Legacy of Francis Schaeffer
Francis Schaeffer, a prominent Christian thinker and apologist, left an indelible mark on modern Christianity. His life’s work continues to inspire and challenge believers to this day.
Early Life and Conversion
Born in 1912, Schaeffer became a Christian at the age of 17 after reading the Bible for the first time. As a bright teenager, he had many questions about life, but found that philosophy books offered little help. This experience shaped his conviction that the Bible holds basic answers to life’s fundamental questions.
A Crisis of Faith
In the early 1950s, Schaeffer faced a deep spiritual crisis. Despite espousing and defending orthodox Christian doctrine, he felt his spiritual life had become dry. This led him to re-examine his faith, starting from the basics. He emerged with a renewed sense of the reality of Christian faith and a deeper dependence on God’s Spirit and prayer.
L’Abri Fellowship
In 1955, Schaeffer founded L’Abri Fellowship in the Swiss Alps. This community was built on the conviction that “God is there” and became a haven for people seeking answers to life’s questions. Schaeffer’s home, where he lived with his wife Edith, became a hub for hospitality, conversation, and prayer.
Apologetics and Evangelism
Schaeffer was passionate about apologetics and evangelism. He believed that honest questions deserved honest answers and that every human being knows God, even if they claim to be atheists or agnostics. He developed a unique approach to apologetics, probing the disconnect between what people professed and their deeply held convictions.
The Upper and Lower Storeys
Schaeffer identified a dichotomy between the “upper storey” of irrational, mystical, and relative thinking, and the “lower storey” of cold, hard facts. He argued that this dichotomy sucks the meaning out of God’s good creation and is characteristic of modern theology and culture.
A Line of Despair
Schaeffer believed that Western civilization had crossed a “line of despair,” moving from rationality to irrationality. He traced this decline from ancient Rome to the present day, illustrating it through music, art, philosophy, film, and theology.
Legacy and Impact
Francis Schaeffer’s legacy extends far beyond his writings and teachings. He applied the Christian message to various areas of life, including ecology, race relations, and social justice. His prescient views on these topics continue to inspire and challenge believers today.
Personal Life and Marriage
Schaeffer’s marriage to Edith Seville Schaeffer was a vital partnership in his ministry. Together, they raised four children and welcomed thousands of guests into their home. Edith was a gifted author and played a crucial role in cultivating the presence of God at L’Abri.
Conclusion
Francis Schaeffer’s life and legacy serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of living out one’s faith in all areas of life. His commitment to apologetics, evangelism, and hospitality continues to inspire believers to engage with the world around them. As we reflect on his life and teachings, may we be challenged to live out our own faith with greater passion and purpose.
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