Mere Christianity

C.S. Lewis' Mere Christianity is a renown classic, having been read by old and young alike and enjoyed by both as the intricacies of Christian beliefs is revealed to the common layman. Based on Lewis' 1940s radio talks, Mere Christianity incorporates three compilations of his broadcasts: The Case for Christianity, Christian Behaviour, and Beyond Personality. Using the personal tone of radio talks, CS Lewis is able to explain theology on a one-on-one basis, as if talking to the reader. Despite the simplicity in language, his classic ranks as one of the all-time best religious classics, along with his Screwtape Letters.

In his book, C.S. Lewis analyzes the most enigmatic of Christian theology, laying it out in the simplest way, as if he was having a dialogue with the reader. His use of examples for every concept, difficult or not, enhances your comprehension and brings Scriptural dogmas to human terms. Every argument erects its philosophical foundation on purely rational reasons, not things taken for granted without much thought given. This may be the most important characteristic of his book: he makes you think. Mere Christianity cannot be passively read; one must either read and think or just lay it down. Thus you arrive at your conclusions through your own reflections on the subject not the author's.

Despite C.S. Lewis' arguments favoring Christianity, he declines to take a definite stand as to his real position concerning Catholicism, Protestantism, Judaism and other "Christian" ecumenical factions. He condemns none and accepts all, in hopes of allowing the reader to judge for himself. However, in my opinion, if one has the light, let him share it, not wait for some lost person to find it. As a Christian, he should have argumented for the real truth, but he is writing from a reflective thinker's position, not as a theologian.