C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity is one of the defining works of Christian apologetics, instructing both believers and non-believers on the basis of the Christian faith. This renowned work of Christian non-fiction has been embraced by millions, representing a bridge between the abstruse academic inquiry into theology and the more readily accessible teachings of Christian doctrine. Mere Christianity is composed of four parts, each part further broken down into a number of chapters. Herein, we’ll take a brief look at each section of this iconic work and provide a chapter-by-chapter assessment of the content contained therein.
Book One: Right and Wrong as a Clue to the Meaning of the Universe
The first book of Mere Christianity is comprised of eleven chapters, each of which explores different facets of what Lewis terms “the law of right and wrong.” Lewis argues that this seemingly universal consensus among humankind – that certain acts are right and others are wrong – is a clue to the underlying intent of the universe, and leads the reader on a journey towards unpacking the implications of that law. In this first part, Lewis begins by making a case for why such a law of morality must exist, and attempts to rationally explain why we have an instinctive recognition of it. He also addresses how this understanding of good and evil should inform both our individual lives and our collective behavior as citizens of broader societies.
Book Two: What Christians Believe
The second part of Mere Christianity is an exploration of what Lewis refers to as the “inner ring,” or the core doctrines of the Christian faith that all believers must accept. Lewis addresses essential questions like the existence of God and the nature of human sinfulness, and offers an explanation for how faith can be reconciled with the difficulties posed by a scientific understanding of the world. This book is composed of thirteen chapters, each delving further into the fundamental questions of Christian teaching, such as the incarnation of Jesus, the reality of divine grace, and questions of immortality and the afterlife.
Book Three: Christian Behaviour
The third part of Mere Christianity examines how the central teachings of faith should translate into concrete action in the world. Lewis covers the importance of discipline and self-denial, the need for understanding one’s neighbor, and how faith should inform how people interact with each other. This third collection of chapters is composed of twelve pieces, and carefully considers the complex questions of the intersection of faith and morality and how individuals should live out their lives in light of it.
Book Four: Beyond Personality: Or First Steps in the Doctrine of the Trinity
The fourth and final book of Mere Christianity is written in the style of a call to action, as Lewis seeks to encourage readers toward a deeper exploration of the doctrines of the trinity. Here, Lewis specifically focuses on how faith can help guide individuals toward a transformation of their internal selves, and serves as an invitation for the reader to consider how a Christian worldview can reshape individual personalities. This fourth book contains seven chapters, each touching upon topics such as the role of prayer and meditation, the importance of honesty, and the nature of moral responsibility.
The Impact and Legacy of Mere Christianity
It is difficult to overstate the impact and legacy of Mere Christianity. Generating millions of copies upon its initial release in 1952, this work has served as a touchstone for both Christian apologists and newcomers to the faith. By coupling accessible figurative language and pithy analogies with an intellectual sensibility informed by Lewis’s deep understanding of medieval philosophy and Christian theology, Lewis has created a work that serves both as an instructive handbook and as a ringing endorsement of faith.
Broadening One’s Knowledge of Christianity
For those looking to enhance their understanding of the foundations of the Christian faith, Mere Christianity provides an excellent primer. Through Lewis’s elucidation of the ethical and moral tenets of Christianity, as well as his approachable discussions of contentious theological topics such as the divinity of Christ and human depravity, readers of any faith or none are presented with an engaging introduction to the Christian worldview.
Drawing Connections To Othe Moral Traditions
Beyond its instruction on the core doctrines of Christianity, Mere Christianity can also be seen as an exploration into the meaning of morality more generally. By examining the formation of the moral law from a legalistic perspective, Lewis opens the door to an exploration of how universal ethical maxims connect to a range of moral traditions, both religious and secular. This careful consideration of ethical questions maintains Mere Christianity‘s relevance and timelessness, allowing readers to extract meaning from the text regardless of their differing beliefs.
Exploring the Psychological Implications of Morality
As well as being an exploration of the origins and formation of morality, Mere Christianity can also be read as a study into the psychological implications of moral inquiry. By examining the inner turmoil that is generated when morality clashes with secular thought or personal desires, Lewis signals his recognition of the moral complexities that define human experience. Alongside the thoughtful details of Lewis’s discussion of core moral values, this psychological element allows readers to project one’s own experiences of ethical struggle onto the text, creating a sense of intimacy and identification.
Considering the Impact of Faith in Human Existence
Ultimately, the primary goal of Mere Christianity is to reconsider faith in the modern age. Through his championing of the moral conscience, as well as his exploration of how faith can be integrated into our daily lives, Lewis is able to reconcile some of the most contentious issues of Christian apologetics. By examining the ways in which we have structured our lives in accordance with this faith, and by considering how the doctrines of the Christian church have been internalized and adapted by believers throughout history, Lewis presents an uplifting and hopeful vision of faith.
Exploring the Emotional Dimension of Christianity
By exploring the role of faith in the life of the believer, Mere Christianity invites us to contemplate the emotional implications of belief. Utilizing an accessible and relatable dialectical style, Lewis is able to evoke empathy and understanding can we consider how faith has shaped individuals throughout history and how the Christian faith challenges us in our current life. Through this affective approach, Lewis helps to bridge the divide between the mundane reality of everyday experience and the cosmic spiritual riddle of faith.
Weighing the Rationality Behind Christian Doctrine
In contemplating the Christian faith,Lewis acknowledges the importance of undertaking intellectual inquiry into the complex questions posed by Christian doctrine. Mere Christianity thus acts as an expanding upon the rational questioning of faith, providing readers with a guide for approaching such questions in an effective and meaningful way. By recognizing the value of both faith and reason,Lewis is able to appeal to audiences of all backgrounds, helping to bridge gaps between believers and non-believers alike.
