Mere Christianity – C.S. Lewis
1. Full Citation
Lewis, C.S. (1952) Mere Christianity. New York: Macmillan Publishing.
2. Introduction
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis is a profound and widely accessible apologetic work that seeks to present and defend the core beliefs of the Christian faith. Originally delivered as a series of BBC radio broadcasts during World War II, the book was later compiled into a unified volume. Lewis aims not to align with any specific denomination but rather to present what he calls “mere” or essential Christianity—that which all true Christians believe. This review assesses the work’s philosophical clarity, theological inclusivity, rhetorical effectiveness, and influence in the modern Christian world.
3. Author Background and Credentials
C.S. Lewis (1898–1963) was a British author, professor of English literature at Oxford and Cambridge, and a former atheist turned Christian apologist. Best known for The Chronicles of Narnia, Lewis was also a formidable intellectual voice in Christian theology and philosophy. His conversion from atheism to Christianity informs much of his apologetic work, marked by logical reasoning, literary clarity, and a profound moral sensibility. He was a lay theologian, not a trained clergyman or systematic theologian.
4. Summary of Contents
The book is divided into four parts, each developing key arguments about Christian belief and moral life:
- Right and Wrong as a Clue to the Meaning of the Universe
- Argues for the existence of a moral law as evidence for a divine Lawgiver.
- What Christians Believe
- Introduces the basic doctrines of Christianity, including Christ’s divinity, redemption, and the problem of sin.
- Christian Behaviour
- Examines Christian ethics and virtues such as charity, hope, and chastity.
- Beyond Personality: Or First Steps in the Doctrine of the Trinity
- Offers a metaphysical and imaginative approach to understanding God’s Trinitarian nature.
Lewis combines rational argument, analogy, and humour, building a case that is philosophical, moral, and deeply spiritual.
5. Critical Evaluation
a. Coherence and Argumentation
Lewis structures his argument progressively, starting from natural moral law and culminating in deep Christian doctrine. The logic is accessible yet intellectually satisfying, particularly for lay readers or seekers unfamiliar with theology.
b. Originality and Intellectual Contribution
While Lewis draws on classical Christian tradition, his style of moral apologetics is highly original in the 20th century context. He presents timeless truths in a literary and persuasive form, revitalising apologetics for a modern, war-weary audience.
c. Evidence, Sources, and Method
Lewis’s argument is largely philosophical and moral, not empirical. He references Scripture selectively and ecumenically. His appeal is more to reason and conscience than to theological tradition or academic citation.
d. Style and Accessibility
The book is written in clear, engaging, and often poetic prose. Lewis’s tone is respectful of doubt, reflective, and often humorous. His analogies (e.g., comparing God to a being in multiple dimensions) are memorable and accessible to general audiences.
e. Limitations and Critiques
Some theologians critique Lewis for being non-systematic and sometimes simplistic, especially on topics like the Trinity or the Atonement. Others note the limited engagement with historical-critical theology or cultural critiques of religion.
6. Comparative Context
Mere Christianity stands alongside works like G.K. Chesterton’s Orthodoxy and Timothy Keller’s The Reason for God, as a popular but thoughtful apologetic. Unlike systematic theology textbooks, Lewis’s work is experiential, philosophical, and literary, intended to explain belief rather than define doctrine.
7. Thematic or Disciplinary Relevance
The book is relevant for apologetics, ethics, moral philosophy, Christian doctrine, and public theology. It is widely used in introductory theology courses, seeker groups, and ecumenical settings for its bridging style and clear moral reasoning.
8. Reflection or Practical Application
Mere Christianity has had a transformational impact on countless readers, including skeptics, converts, and long-time Christians. It continues to be cited as a major influence by Christian leaders, authors, and apologists. Its ecumenical tone fosters unity around core beliefs, making it useful across denominations.
9. Conclusion
C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity remains a masterpiece of apologetic literature, combining reasoned argument, ethical reflection, and literary charm. Its vision of “mere” Christianity offers both a rational foundation and a spiritual invitation. Though it lacks theological precision in places, it succeeds as a gateway to deeper faith.
Recommended for: Seekers, new believers, theology students, and anyone exploring the rational foundations of Christian faith.
10. Other Works by the Same Author
- The Problem of Pain (1940) – Philosophical reflections on theodicy.
- The Screwtape Letters (1942) – A fictional satire on spiritual warfare.
- The Great Divorce (1945) – A theological fantasy on heaven, hell, and free will.
- The Chronicles of Narnia series (1950–1956) – Allegorical Christian fiction.
11. Similar Books by Other Authors
- G.K. Chesterton – Orthodoxy
- Timothy Keller – The Reason for God
- Alister McGrath – C.S. Lewis: A Life
- R.C. Sproul – Defending Your Faith
12. References (only if external works are cited)
- Chesterton, G.K. (1908) Orthodoxy. London: John Lane.
- Keller, T. (2008) The Reason for God. New York: Dutton.
- McGrath, A. (2013) C.S. Lewis: A Life. London: Hodder & Stoughton.
- Sproul, R.C. (2003) Defending Your Faith. Wheaton: Crossway.