Mere Christianity

C. S. Lewis rejects the boundaries that divide Christianity's many denominations. While religious belief is not a concern for some, to many more it is an extremely serious decision, requiring deep thought and the entire energy of the mind. In Mere Christianity, C. S. Lewis leads all the Christian religions to common ground. This book is in fact a defense of the beliefs common to all Christians at all times. Originally, these ideas were contained in three separate books. Prior to 1943 they were only heard as informal radio broadcasts. This is why you will see colloquialisms used and the conversational style of the writing. When you read C. S. Lewis' work, you can hear his voice. Sometimes I forget I am reading. Like a friend with a cup of coffee in hand, he sits across from us. He then leads us up a ladder of logical thinking. He starts on the lowest step and gives us confidence to climb the next step. He guides us through an incredible thought process to a conclusion, which is perhaps so logical it becomes irrevocable truth. If you were to fall off a real ladder, your body would simply be obeying the laws of Gravity. He brilliantly explains how there is an eternal Law of Human Nature. This is the law of how mankind "ought" to behave in order to maintain a safe and happy society where everyone plays fair. Unfortunately, we all know how our society has failed to practice this law in all aspects of life. If you want a definition for this law it can only be "morals." A word from which many reel, as if a light was shining brightly in their eyes. To others: it is a light by which they see the path they walk through life. C. S. Lewis divides morality into three main sections: the actions, reasons behind the actions and why man was created. When you realize that different beliefs about the universe can make us behave differently; you can then make some compelling arguments in favor of Christianity. C. S. Lewis was an atheist (as was my father once and his writing reminds me of a conversation with my father for some reason, perhaps they came to some of the same conclusions) who later became a Christian. He is perhaps one of the most qualified individuals to discuss a universe at war, for the idea of atheism and Christianity could not be more diametrically opposed. "Good and evil both increase at compound interest. That is why the little decisions you and I make every day are of such infinite importance." --C. S. Lewis Like a voice from the grave (he passed away in 1963), C. S. Lewis speaks as if this message was for the year 2000. I read this work 53 years after it was written and the truths are still eternal. Good and Evil are perhaps the oldest concept we know of. I found it interesting when he pointed out that without good, evil would not exist. That good allows evil to occur. For example: selfishness is undesirable, while unselfishness is desirable. The basis for this is founded in some deep religious beliefs. He explains how this all relates to the moral laws of nature. I enjoyed his discussion of the Theological Virtues (Faith/Hope/Charity) and the Cardinal (pivotal) Virtues (Prudence/Temperance/Justice/Fortitude). His chapter on the issue of "Pride" (the most evil of all vices) also shows how "power" is what pride wants. "There is nothing that makes a man feel more superior to others as being able to move them about like toy soldiers." --C. S. Lewis Through this book, you will gain a greater understanding of what holds us all together, what makes us responsible to one another. You may even conclude that those who find morals threatening, may in fact be the largest threat to a civilized society. If we all had morals we would simply have a safer environment to thrive and be happy in. It is simply the way you look at it. Mere Christianity is one of the most thought provoking books I have ever read to date! If you are at all interested in the logical basis for Christianity, this book goes to the depths of thought and reveals the essence of the beliefs behind the beliefs. This book becomes perfume, which completely seduces your soul. For Christians, it will be a reminder of the truth you hold dear and a reminder of our eternal life. For those who love the Narnia Chronicles, page 146 gives you an insight into the "time factor." (The children in the story can leave the material world and when they return, time never changes.) One of my favorite quotes from Mere Christianity: " When it (Christianity) tells you to feed the hungry it does not give you a lesson in cookery." --C. S. Lewis, page 79 On page 87 you will also find a beautiful passage. It is my all-time favorite passage to explain LIFE! It is a must read. This book will put your brain in gear and send you on a drive to enlightenment. I intend to read every one of Lewis' books. His work is deep, yet understandable. Eternally Recommended. C. S. Lewis is my all-time favorite author. I was first introduced to his writing as a very young child in second grade. It was then that I fell in love with his writing. Through the Narnia Chronicles, C.S. Lewis weaves the morals and beliefs children need to learn. I recommend Mere Christianity for non-Christians and Christians. For all children, The Chronicles of Narnia will enlighten them and they will never forget the stories! I also reviewed the set. They are the most magical stories a child can read. Mere Christianity is perhaps the most brilliant explanation for Christian beliefs any adult can read. ~The Rebecca Review

A Must-Read Classic That Solidifies the Logic of Faith. ​Mere Christianity is not just a book; it's an experience in philosophical clarity and theological depth. It is a great book that should be on everyone's bookshelf, regardless of their current beliefs. ​Impact: Lewis's logical progression, starting from the universal "Law of Human Nature" and building toward core Christian doctrines, is incredibly compelling. Reading this book genuinely strengthened [my] belief by giving a robust, reasoned structure to the faith. ​Clarity: The concepts, which began as BBC radio broadcasts, are presented in remarkably clear and accessible prose. Lewis avoids dense theological jargon, making complex arguments approachable for the average reader. ​If you are looking for a clear, logical, and deeply thoughtful defense of the Christian faith, this book is unparalleled. I wholeheartedly recommend this timeless classic!

C. S. Lewis does an amazing job of communicating the truth of the Gospel. For those that are searching what Christianity is all about, he presents God's amazing plan for man in a very compelling way. For those of us that are followers of Christ, it is a book that strengthens our faith, and reminds us of God's great love and mercy, and that He is always calling us to Him to experience the depth His love, that has no measure.

Magnificent book. One of the greatest Christian apologetic works ever written. Mere Christianity is simple, clear, and powerful. Lewis gives you a surface-level introduction to philosophy, morality, and the logic of the Christian worldview without overwhelming you. It is the perfect book for anyone who wants a better understanding of their faith or for anyone searching for purpose, meaning, or the foundations of Christianity. As for the people complaining about the page edges: the design is intentional. The uneven, rough edges are called deckle edges, meant to give the book a classic, vintage look. Nothing is wrong with the printing. In short: the content is life-changing, and the design is deliberate. A must-read for every Christian and every seeker.

Great book I ordered to re-read it. Amazon packed it with other things though so the cover was bent....but that's ok! I say order it! Price is great, contents are great.

I realize it doesn’t change the words on the page - but I do not like the uneven sloppy cut pages

Such a great, foundational book for Christian readers or anyone wanting to explore the Christian faith more deeply. C.S. Lewis was a great apologist, and this deep dive into issues of the faith is a must-read for anyone wanting to clarify their beliefs or understand doctrine more fully.

What more can I add? It’s a timeless classic for a very great reason

I think every Christian should read Mere Christianity at least once. CS Lewis did an incredible job in conceptualizing this beautiful and complex religion. As the book progresses, more and more difficult theological concepts are introduced, and there is a good chance that majority of Christians will discover something new for themselves. And if you’re not a Christian? Stop reading the reviews, this book is a must!!!

Everything is good just go for it. It even comes with sepia-toned pages.

Me parece que el escritor es muy bueno y sigo descubriendo el libro, me gusta mucho poder leerlo desde el celular.

I’m not even finished with this book yet, but I felt like I needed to say something about it. Mere Christianity is not a light or fluffy read. It really makes you think. C.S. Lewis explains things in a very logical and straightforward way, which I appreciate. He talks about big topics like morality and faith in a way that feels honest and thoughtful, not pushy. There were a few parts I had to reread because they’re quite dense, but that’s also what makes it good. It challenges you. Even when I don’t fully understand something, I find myself thinking about it later in the day. If you’re looking for something simple and devotional, this might not be it. But if you want something that stretches your thinking and makes you reflect more deeply on what you believe, it’s definitely worth reading. I’ll update this once I finish it, but so far I’m really glad I started it.

The reason of our lives is quite simple: spiritual growth. It is something that I have been hearing since I was a little kid and it is written in the Bible is so many ways, but for me it is being great to read books like this one that allows us to have this truth written deep down in our hearts.