Mere Christianity

I'm just finishing Mere Christianity by CS Lewis. Apparently is has been a very popular book for a long time, although I had just heard of it before I left Minnesota. During WWII, Lewis was asked to give a series of talks about the fundamental beliefs of Christianity over the BBC to the British people.

The book begins with a logical "proof" that God does exist. Then he moves into describing two sets of virtues, one that are universal in nature and another that are specifically Christian and uses those virtues to illustrate our purpose on Earth. His final chapters explain some of the more complex concepts, such as the Trinity, the death of Christ as payment for our sins, etc.

I loved this book on several levels. First of all, it was done originally as a radio broadcast it is very conversational. And it's British and the British have such great ways of expressing themselves that are both humorous and practical. Lewis approaches his topic from a more intellectual perspective which appeals to me. His emphasis is on understanding and knowing, although he does recognize and emphasize the necessity of having that emotional connection with God in order to have a relationship with Him. Lewis is able to use the most basic real life examples to illustrate his points. His comparisons between a Christian's war on sin and what was happening in Europe with the Nazis are very effective. His very simple yet eloquent examples really point to how I feel God works in our lives--simple and real, yet all-powerful in ways that we can't imagine.

The other aspect of Lewis' book that appealed to me was his ability to really speak of Christianity as a body, rather than the different denominations. After his conversion (Lewis was formerly an atheist), Lewis was a member of the Church of England. I'm sure that some of his writing is not completely in line with some denominations but he clearly cuts through those differences to get at the heart of what Christians believe. Amazingly, he is able to do it with very few quotes from the Bible--although it is the Bible that is the root of his words and our beliefs.

Lewis does not "prove" that God exists. His book is less than an "argument" and more of an explanation that lays out our beliefs in a way that makes it clear what Christians believe our purpose in life is. If someone who does not have an active faith would read it, it would provide an insight into what they may feel is missing in their lives.

Plus, it's British and I think the tone that he takes as a Brit really makes his points practical and real. Often the true message of Christianity is lost in media interpretation and denominational bickering. Lewis cuts through all of that-- it's a great book for anyone, regardless of their faith.