Mere Christianity

Book Description

A forceful and accessible discussion of Christian belief that has become one of the most popular introductions to Christianity and one of the most popular of Lewis’s books. Uncovers common ground upon which all Christians can stand together.

Customer Reviews:

Militant Jihadists, their Enemies, Friends - Read it, even for the last chapter alone!.......2007-10-10

Most people have no idea about what Christianity is. That is the reason that CS Lewis' book exists.

If you are looking for a book that will convince you to take the leap of faith and become a Christian (like so many 1-star reviewers who said they were unconvinced) then don't waste your time. No book will convince you. However, if you are looking for the facts about real Christianity (not as a religion, but as a relationship) then you can't do much better than Lewis. Although his voice is rather formal (read: evidently British), seekers will give him some latitude on this. If you want the egg, get past the shell.

As an aside, I personally did not become a Christian because of the 'scientific facts,' although I did assure myself that I wasn't committing intellectual suicide by doing so. I used to be very fond of evolution. If you want this same validation, you can either talk to a Christian who knows the facts (as I did), or read something like what Lewis has presented. Simple.

If everybody read this book, I can imagine at least a few of the following would happen:
1. Most people in Western culture would stop calling themselves Christians, and would either become one or become a real athiest. They would at least be standing for something instead of falling for anything.
2. Other cultures would stop saying ignorant things like "America (or wherever) is a Christian nation." The facts in Lewis' work speak against this. They would stop saying that they have a holy war against these so-called Christians (who are in fact not Christians at all.)
3. Heaven forbid, some people might realize the inheritance and gift they could receive and actually choose to find out about God by taking an Alpha course or reading that "Bible" thing ;)

If you like reading novels, you'll probably find the book dry until the last chapter. But don't miss this book on that account. Even if you read only the last chapter (about the next evolution of humanity), you'll have captured a significant (and inspiring) picture of real (er, Mere) Christianity. When you do, you might just be tempted to go back and read the book and see what all the fuss is about (and how he could possibly make such an outrageous statement.)

Well , that was long and rant-ish. But I love you all and I hope you read this book.
Look at my Listmania for some ideas about other crucial books like Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas.

Feel free to contact me.

Cheers,
Danny

Faith and Reason; No Contradiction.......2007-10-08

Much has been written of C.S. Lewis' classic work Mere Christianity because of the wide influence it has had in the past 60 years. Mere Christianity is not only a lucid Christian apologetic, but it is the articulated philosophical process by which C.S. Lewis, originally an atheist, came to find Christianity a reasonable doctrine to live by. To be sure, his conversion was not simply a matter of syllogism applied to religion; Lewis is forthright in acknowledging and even embracing the mystery, and at times, the not insignificant confusion that can accompany the acceptance of Christ as Savior. One of Lewis' purposes--rare among popular Christian writers--is to provide a framework of belief that allows a Christian to express their faith in a manner that is intelligible and reasonable to non-believers. Relying, as Christ did, on the power of metaphor and parable, Lewis is able to provide insight into Christian principles in manner that is at once accessible and profound.

One of the major contributions of Mere Christianity is the argument of the Moral Law. Lewis draws upon a universal set of principles of right & wrong and relates them to the existence of a high power. Lewis loosely defines the "moral law" as a set of moral principles which are universal across culture, time, and geography. By emphasizing the contrast between human moral goals--for peace, altruism, etc.--with the survival-dominated behavior paradigms in the natural kingdom, Lewis argues that a universal moral law---even one that is at times flagrantly disobeyed---is evidence of a loving God.

Lewis is careful to point out that we have moral goals that often amount to nothing more than aspirations. Yet, these aspirations form a powerful framework for action since the moral law provides a universal set of expectations about right & wrong. The universal expectations are true regardless of philosophy or belief in God. For example, a person may believe that all morality is relative. However, if that same person were robbed, they would strenuously object and would seek justice through some law-enforcing institution. Thus our actions and thoughts may not always reflect the hopes of the moral law, but we carry the law with us in all of our interactions and have real expectations of behavior from our fellow man.

It is important to note that recent scholarship in evolutionary biology has begun to explore natural reasons for phenomenon such as altruism and self-sacrifice. This scholarship provides, at the very least, a plausible explanation for the moral law that does not rely on the existence of God. While research continues in this area, Scientists such as Francis Collins (atheist convert to Christianity, leader of the Human Genome Project, and author of Language of God) have developed frameworks of belief which do not set evolution and faith in God at odds with each other. In Collins' framework, evolution is simply the means by which God created (and continues to create) life. Similarly, Lewis is comfortable with evolution as a tool of God. This may surprise many conservative Christians who draw so heavily on his articulation of the Christian faith. But this is what makes Lewis' work so powerful. We see a passionate believer who embodies a faith that is not threatened by advances in scientific understanding even while refusing to compromise the moral and spiritual imperatives of Christianity.

Mere Christianity is by now a classic work in the Christian anthology. Its power is in Lewis' ability to connect with the reader without pandering. Its durability is in its reasonableness. Its attractiveness is in its commitment to raw faith in Christ. As such, Lewis' treatise is recommended for both Christians and non-Christians alike for the purpose of introspection, interaction, and exploration. Current debates within Christian circles and between believers and non-believers could benefit from Lewis' unique ability to explain the Christian faith as a vibrant, flexible but demanding discipline upon which we can place all of our hopes.

A Classic.......2007-09-28

This book needs no introduction. Originally published more than 60 years ago during World War II, Mere Christianity remains relevant on every level today. C.S. Lewis provides not only a strong and well-reasoned defense of the Christian faith, but gives the reader plenty of wise advice on leading the Christian life. This is a book that should be read and re-read.

One of the Best Overall Defenses of Christianity.......2007-09-19

C.S. Lewis' masterpiece "Mere Christianity," which was adapted from a series of radio talks he gave in the 1940s, is both a convincing case for the truth of Christianity and an important reminder of its importance in our own lives. Preferring to forgo denominational debates and dogmatism, Lewis instead offers a case for the basic, essential tenets of the Christian faith.

Lewis accomplishes so much in this valuable book. To start off, Lewis establishes the existence of God via a convincing presentation of the Morality Argument. He argues that humans all have a basic moral code which we know that we should follow but which we know we fail to follow. God, argues Lewis, provides the explanation for this prescriptive moral law that we find ourselves obliged to obey. Near the end of the book, Lewis delves into the more difficult topics of theology including the nature of the Trinity and God's relationship to time. He handles these difficult topics remarkably well with his engaging style of writing.

But more than providing a convincing case for the truth of God's existence and Christianity, Lewis also provides a very powerful explanation of morality. He discusses moral issues that are relevant both for people in general and for Christians in particular. These chapters about morality are simply excellent. Even though they aren't apologetic in nature, I found Lewis' exposition of morality very useful and so persuasive that I think it will have a positive impact on my own life. Near the end of the book, Lewis gives a very convicting argument for the importance of taking Christianity seriously.

Mere Christianity is easy to read, and Lewis' style of providing simple analogies makes complicated topics intelligible and interesting. It may not be a heavily referenced or scholarly tome about Christian apologetics, but it is a convincing, clear, and simple defense of mere Christianity and of Christ's importance in our lives. Overall, "Mere Christianity" is a fantastic book that everyone, believer or unbeliever, should read.

Inspiring.......2007-09-10

I listened to this book on cd which I have found is a great way to get insirational advice everyday and further myself as a person. I loved C.S Lewis's Mere Christianity. It gives a educated view into why he believes in God and more specifically the Christian God. He is a great writer and the book is very intellegent. I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone.

C. S. Lewis Signature Classics: Mere Christianity, The Screwtape Letters, A Grief Observed, The Problem of Pain, Miracles, and The Great Divorce (Boxed Set)

Average customer rating:

Quality works in poor quality packaging
Great way to get (almost) all of Lewis' classics
Classics!
Not "Letters," but a great set nevertheless
Good Set

C. S. Lewis Signature Classics: Mere Christianity, The Screwtape Letters, A Grief Observed, The Problem of Pain, Miracles, and The Great Divorce (Boxed Set)
C. S. Lewis
Manufacturer: HarperOne
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0060653027
Release Date: 2001-02-19

Book Description

Includes six titles: Mere Christianity, The Screwtape Letters, A Grief Observed, The Problem of Pain, Miracles, and The Great Divorce.

Customer Reviews:

Quality works in poor quality packaging.......2007-09-20

For the last week I have been like a little child waiting for a birthday present to come in the mail. I have joyfully anticipated receiving this boxed set of C.S. Lewis treasures. At last, it came today. What a disappointment! If the covers of these books last through more than one reading, I will be surprised. The covers are beautiful, but the quality is poor, and certainly not worth the $47.90 I paid for this set. I was looking forward to something that would last for years to come. Oh well, I won't be sending the set back, because I'm anxious to read these incredible works (the first books I will have read in several years). If this review was about C.S. Lewis, it would be five stars. But, this review is about the shoddy quality of this set, and hence the single star review. Buyer beware.

Great way to get (almost) all of Lewis' classics.......2007-03-23

I love that many of my favorite books by Lewis are availible in a convenient package. While I would have liked to have The Four Loves in here as well, I think this is a great collection that I am happy to own.

Classics!.......2007-02-15

What can i say, CS Lewis truly thinks on a different plane, the first of the post modern Christians and truly biblical thinking. His many books takes you on many journeys. However books are intense with the use of the english language. Screwtape letters and Mere Christianity are two greats and the Four loves the hardest to read. However definitely a worthwhile collection to have.

Not "Letters," but a great set nevertheless.......2006-08-21

This "Six Essential Volume" set includes Mere Christianity, The Screwtape Letters, The Great Divorce, The Problem of Pain, Miracles and A Grief Observed. The other reviews confirm that everyone else has received the same six books, so it isn't that I was sent the wrong order. Nowhere on the boxed set does it say "Collected Letters," and this isn't his Letters.

If you're looking for C.S. Lewis's Collected Letters, you'll need to keep looking. But if you're looking for a great collection of C.S. Lewis works, this is what you want. These works should be in every Christian's library.

Good Set.......2006-02-05

I'm new to CS Lewis and was told this collection was a good place to start. The Screwtape Letter is opening my mind to alot of new things.

Average customer rating:

Maybe the best defense of Christianity in the last 200 years
The Journey Starts Here, But . . .
Solid, consistent and enjoyable
Mere Propaganda
Thoroughly recommended!

Mere Christianity
C. S. Lewis
Manufacturer: Touchstone Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0684823780

Amazon.com

In 1943 Great Britain, when hope and the moral fabric of society were threatened by the relentless inhumanity of global war, an Oxford don was invited to give a series of radio lectures addressing the central issues of Christianity. Over half a century after the original lectures, the topic retains it urgency. Expanded into book form, Mere Christianity never flinches as it sets out a rational basis for Christianity and builds an edifice of compassionate morality atop this foundation. As Mr. Lewis clearly demonstrates, Christianity is not a religion of flitting angels and blind faith, but of free will, an innate sense of justice and the grace of God.

Book Description

THE BELOVED BESTSELLING CLASSIC OF CHRISTIAN FAITH

Mere Christianity is C. S. Lewis's forceful and accessible doctrine of Christian belief. First heard as informal radio broadcasts and then published as three separate books -- The Case for Christianity, Christian Behavior, and Beyond Personality -- Mere Christianity brings together what Lewis sees as the fundamental truths of the religion. Rejecting the boundaries that divide Christianity's many denominations, C. S. Lewis finds a common ground on which all those who have Christian faith can stand together, proving that "at the centre of each there is something, or a Someone, who against all divergences of belief, all differences of temperament, all memories of mutual persecution, speaks with the same voice."

Customer Reviews:

Maybe the best defense of Christianity in the last 200 years.......2007-05-02

"Mere Christianity" is an excellent defense of Christianity for the average Joe. More than a few scholars of religion and theology will be disappointed in C.S. Lewis' simplistic analogies, explanations and theory (though readers of all ages will love them). His attack of the notion that Christ was not more than a great moral teacher is top-notch and memorable. Post-feminist readings of the chapters on marriage and sexuality will surely produce numerous critiques, but Lewis anticipates and effectively knocks down most of their contentions by explaining that Christianity was never meant to be popular or easy because it was not invented for quick, mass acceptance--it is what it is, not what every generation would have it. Popular fashions come and go, God is eternal.

Lewis is unafraid to tell the reader what he cannot know, either because of personal limitations or those of man in general. Still, this rarely softens the cogency of his larger points. His prose is a model for writers everywhere. I whole-heartedly recommend "Mere Christianity" for believers, skeptics and everything in between.

The Journey Starts Here, But . . ........2007-02-15

This classic work contains the response of popular Christian apologetist C. S. Lewis to three fundamental questions:

1. Is there a God?
2. Is God a good and loving God, or is he indifferent to us?
3. Is Christ what he says he is (Savior of mankind)?

Lewis gives skillful, entertaining and relatively brief responses, but an atheist once pointed out to me that Lewis left a gigantic hole in the third argument - how do we know that the quotations of Christ in the Bible that we read today are accurate? So, the journey starts here, but it does not end here. I next turned to The Historical Reliability of the Gospels by Craig L. Blomberg, and The Case for Christ: A Journalist's Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus by Lee Strobel. In the interest of staying on point, I'll discuss those books elsewhere and conclude by highly recommending this book to those new to Christianity or Christian apologetics, but with the caveat that it takes the answer to one crucial question completely for granted.

Solid, consistent and enjoyable.......2007-01-16

Originally a series of radio broadcasts that were transcribed into book form with the author's help, C. S. Lewis' witty and systematically logical defense of Christianity still endures as a favorite today. Although intellectual works of this caliber can seem intimidating, his conversational style of communication makes the book approachable and thoroughly enjoyable. He not only addresses the common sense of Christianity, but also thoughtfully doesn't neglect the practical need, the heartfelt void, that Christ alone can fill. All in all, this book is an all-around, solid work that consistently covers all the bases of thought and makes for a great read.

Mere Propaganda.......2006-07-24

The problem I've always had with Christianity (among other religions) is that it tells you what's wrong with you without asking for any feedback from you (unless your feedback agrees with Christian theology), then offers the "only possible way" to fix you. And should you feel that "the way" honestly doesn't make sense to you, you're told that's part of your problem. And further, that if you don't come around to "the truth," the worst tortures await you.

Does that tactic sound familiar? Think fascism, communism and every other flavor of totalitarianism. The tragedy of Christianity (and, again, of quite a few other religions) is that it turns the Source of Life and Love into just another dictator, and turns us into that dictator's eternally cringing underlings. That may be Christianity's idea of God, but it certainly isn't mine. And somehow I suspect it isn't God's idea of God either.

I found "Mere Christianity" to be an excellent representation of Christianity. Other Amazon reviewers have already given examples of Mr. Lewis's convuluted logic in presenting his case. So I'll just add two more.

Mr. Lewis says the one thing we must never do is see Jesus as merely a highly enlightened teacher. According to Mr. Lewis, we have only three choices, based on Jesus's life: that Jesus was either Lord, liar or lunatic.

I honestly don't see why I can't have that fourth choice: to see Jesus as a highly enlightened teacher. But that's because I don't consider the Bible the inerrant word of God. I believe the gospels were written by very human beings who shaped a lot of it to put across their own agendas. Thus I don't see these recordings of Jesus's life as inerrant either--though I do see many, many examples of high-enlightenment in them.

In Mr. Lewis's argument for Jesus being one of the "three L's," he assumes that we've accepted--or must accept--the Bible as the inerrant word of God. But before you make a logical argument, you must be sure the people you're addressing are in agreement with the assumptions behind that argument--in this case, that the Bible IS the "inerrant word of God."

Mr. Lewis never bothers to do that legwork. What he does (as do, from my experience, most other Christians) is make assumptions FOR us, and then argue from there. Naturally, the arguments fall flat if we haven't accepted those assumptions in the first place. And because I haven't, the fourth choice opens wide and invitingly for me: that Jesus was a highly enlightened teacher.

In the second example, Mr. Lewis extols the Christian doctrine of having sex only within marriage, and being completely chaste otherwise. To justify this, Mr. Lewis points out our sex-fixated culture and claims that this is the result of letting our animal drives take the lead in our lives. He asks us how we would view a culture that fixated on food (assuming the people of that culture weren't starving)--a culture which, for example, had the food equivalent of strip shows: audiences gaping lustily as a plate of food was shown on stage. Isn't our own culture's focus on sex just as pathetic?

What Mr. Lewis overlooks is the fact that when we fixate on anything (again, assuming we're not starving for it), it's never about the thing itself but about OTHER issues going on inside us. People who continually overeat don't do it because they're biologically hungry. And people who continually focus on sex, even though they might already be having sex on a regular basis, are not doing it because they're biologically in need of sex. Again, there are other things going on which have nothing to do with sex.

Thus, Mr. Lewis makes the following assumptions (as always, without consulting us beforehand on whether we agree with those assumptions): (1) Any focus on sex outside of the context of marriage is purely a matter of our sexual drive and has nothing to do with anything else going on inside us; and (2) the way we experience our sexual drive now is part of the consequences we suffered after our Fall.

And with these assumptions, Mr. Lewis arrives at his "logical" conclusion: that the (as usual) "only way" to live happily and healthily with such a sex drive as ours is to observe the doctrine of absolute chastity outside of marriage.

I suggest there are other ways. For example: to learn to be very conscious of what's really going on with you, and decline from using sex to act out your issues. Further, to resolve to always treat your intimate partner with honesty, consideration and affection, and never ever use him or her for merely your own gratification. For the result of using another person is invariably not only alienation from that person, but from ourselves.

In any case, there's absolutely no truly logical argument that can be made for only having sex within the context of marriage, and being totally chaste outside of it. If you choose to accept that theology for your own life, fine. But don't ever try to make it seem logical, when it's really a matter of private faith.

Several reviewers have stated that they began Mr. Lewis's book as a non-Christian and finished it as a Christian. I began Mr. Lewis's book as a non-Christian, and finished it absolutely affirmed in my faith, which is highly spiritual and sees God in the most unconditionally loving terms. I thank Mr. Lewis for that.

Thoroughly recommended!.......2006-06-05

This is one of Lewis's most famous and oft-quoted works, and for good reason. It is an honest and intelligent - not to mention brilliantly written - examination of the many facets of the Christian faith and human nature: the existence of and belief in God, the Trinity, faith, love, pride, morality etc. Although written during World War Two, the subjects explored still resonate powerfully with contemporary concerns.

I found the opening chapters particularly helpful in presenting a well-argued case for the rational foundations of Christianity, or at least belief in the existence of God. It offers a challenge to Christians to question the intellectual grounds for their faith, and the reassurance that sufficient answers can be found. Non-Christians looking to investigate the rational basis of Christianity, or of religion in general, will also find this an accessible and thought-provoking read.

The book is also an ideal place to start for anyone thinking to dip into the non-fiction works of C. S. Lewis. No book in my opinion gives the reader a better first taste of the prolific author's delicious prose, keen intellect and razor-sharp wit.

I cannot recommend this book more. For the Christian, for the non-Christian, and for the fan of `good books': this is a must-read!

C.S. Lewis: The Signature Classics Audio Collection: The Problem of Pain, The Screwtape Letters, The Great Divorce, Mere Christianity

Average customer rating:

CS Lewis CD collection of 4 great books
An outstanding and challenging series
Incredible
excellent
Outstanding Audio Series - Worth the time.

C.S. Lewis: The Signature Classics Audio Collection: The Problem of Pain, The Screwtape Letters, The Great Divorce, Mere Christianity
C. S. Lewis
Manufacturer: HarperAudio
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: 0060825782
Release Date: 2005-10-04

Book Description

The popular unabridged recordings of The Chronicles of Narnia, previously released, are now repackaged and rejacketed with adult art in time for the first Narnia film coming from Disney at Christmastime 2005!

Customer Reviews:

CS Lewis CD collection of 4 great books.......2007-09-06

The reading of each book was complete and well done. I had started 2 of these as books, "Mere Christianity" and "The Great Divorce", but I never seemed to find time to read them. I can listen to the CDs working around the house or in the car. "The Screwtape Letters" were great. A real reminder how clever satan is at making you think that the issue is solely yourself or others. He is called the deceiver for a very good reason. "Mere Christianity" is a very thoughtful book and one worth discussing with others (Book Club, Book study etc.) "The Great Divorce" has nothing to do with marriage, but our divorce from God and how he wants the best for us and we settle for so much less. After listening to this book you will make decisions differently. "The Problem with Pain" is intense. C.S. Lewis is indeed a critical thinker. Pain is the result of the fall from grace and about how grace restores you (much different from curing you). Each time you listen to one of these CDs you will learn more about yourself, God and your relationship with Him. If you are not certain of who God is and is satan is real these CDs will be very helpful.

An outstanding and challenging series.......2007-08-23

There are few books that make you stop and take an accounting of who you are, what you're about and how you fit into time and the universe more than Mere Christianity. While it was originally a radio series (BBC) broadcast during WWII, it's approach is as applicable now as it was then or at any point in time.

If you have any doubts, concerns or interests regarding the existance of God and/or how we relate to Him; if you're searching for Truth (with a capital "T") you will find some of your answers here.

The approach is non-denominational and non- doctrinal. CS Lewis speaks of basic easy to grasp universal concepts rather than lofty dogma. Mere Christianity is and has been a modern classic that can be read and re-read with passion not only for they who search but also for they who have found answers to basic questions we all pose while here on earth

Incredible.......2007-03-29

Of course Lewis' books are great (we all know that) but the narrators in this package of books are spectacular. The narrator for The Screwtape Letters is uncanny (and eerie) in his reading.

The narrators truly make this a first class product. I highly recommend!

excellent.......2007-03-19

Some readers obviously don't understand the material. Others deliver it well enough, but don't sound authentic. Not this time. If I didn't know better, I would say C.S. Lewis himself was reading this book. It has been a pure delight to revisit these classics in audio form. I strongly recommend it.

Outstanding Audio Series - Worth the time........2007-01-11

I like to read, but I found this audio collection to be outstanding. I felt I got more out of his books listening to them, then actually reading them. He is very deep and concentrated in his thoughts and ideas, and it helped me immensely in my understanding and appreciation for who CS Lewis is and how he write.

I am a seminary student, and consider CS Lewis to be a modern day Apostle Paul. If you find reading CS Lewis difficult, I suggest you try the audio books, there is something about having someone read to you, and being able to comprehend it better.

Thanks Amazon for providing this series!

Six by Lewis: The Abolition of Man, the Great Divorce, Mere Christianity, Miracles, the Problem of Pain, the Screwtape Letters

Average customer rating:

A great introduction to a great writer.
Outstanding Christian Apologetics!
A DEFINITE 'MUST HAVE'!
The Intellectual's Christian
A good selection

Six by Lewis: The Abolition of Man, the Great Divorce, Mere Christianity, Miracles, the Problem of Pain, the Screwtape Letters
C. S. Lewis
Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster (Paper)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0684831198

Amazon.com

Six by Lewis is an excellent introduction to the work of C.S. Lewis, the 20th century's premier Christian apologist. This special six-book collection includes The Abolition of Man, a defense of objective morality, which comprises the basis of his Christian apologetics; The Great Divorce, a Christian perspective on Heaven and Hell; Miracles, an examination of the possibility and probability of the miraculous; The Problem of Pain, an in-depth look at the tough issue of human suffering; The Screwtape Letters, a fictional discussion between two demons illustrating the frailties of the human conscience; and Mere Christianity, Lewis's crowning achievement, a rational defense of Christianity.

Customer Reviews:

A great introduction to a great writer........2003-03-26

This set collects together some of the more famous writings of C.S. Lewis, a man seemingly at ease talking philosophy, or just spinning fanciful yarns. Both are offered here for the reader's enjoyment.

THE ABOLITION OF MAN is a series of lectures on how, without a firm understanding of right and wrong, or plain old good and evil, humanity is destined to destroy itself.

THE GREAT DIVORCE is a lush phantasm about a spirit's journey to Heaven and what he sees and learns from the spirits there.

MERE CHRISTIANITY, what can I say about this brilliant study of the very core of what Christians believe and what the religion teaches. Just read it, it's beautiful.

Also included in the set are MIRACLES, THE PROBLEM WITH PAIN, and THE SCREWTAPE LETTERS.

Outstanding Christian Apologetics!.......2001-02-15

I bought an older edition of these works, when the paperbacks were $3.95 and the overall set was $27.95 in U. S. currency. Its one of the best overall sets I have bought.

These books are central to understanding Lewis as a Christian writer, and especially as an apologist. Most people may know him from NARNIA or one of these volumes, and it is a good place for introduction into the mind and works of C. S. Lewis. All the classics are here, from SCREWTAPE and MERE CHRISTIANITY along with ABOLITION OF MAN and three other works, all of which range from profound (the majority) to beautiful (THE GREAT DIVORCE).

THE SCREWTAPE LETTERS are a series of letters written from one devil to another, and present a very interesting point of view not often heard.

THE GREAT DIVORCE explores the doctrine of love and how without free choice there would be no hell. You either say "Thy will be done," to God, or God says "Thy will be done" to you. Its yr choice. The framing device is a bus trip from hell to heaven.

THE PROBLEM OF PAIN deals with why would a benevolent and loving God include pain in his universe, and the theological ramifications that pain brings into any dicussion of God or religion. Especially interesting, although admittedly speculative, is the chapter on animal pain. Lewis vehemently opposed vivesection, which comes out rather strongly in his novels THAT HIDEOUS STRENGTH and THE VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER.

MERE CHRISTIANITY stands as one of the best apologetic works for Christianity ever written. This is a book written for the lay person, and is one of the best tools for making it accessible to nonbelievers.

MIRACLES, the last apologetic book he ever wrote (there are religious works by Lewis after this, but they are more relaxed and do not have a rigid central arguement), deals with the subject of miracles in the universe.

THE ABOLITION OF MAN is a book length essay, devided into three parts, concerning the universal code of morality which MERE CHRISTIANITY talks about in its first two books.

Lewis was a very versatile writer, and along with THE ESSENTIAL C. S. LEWIS you have a good start into this wonderful writer. I have been a long time reader of him, and have only recently gotten into his literary criticism, of which none is represented here, although some in THE ESSENTIAL C. S. LEWIS. Although some are more for the specialists, it is a particulary rewarding experience, and he is a well trained guide in the field of literature. I highly recommend AN EXPERIMENT IN CRITICISM, which for me is his central work concerning literature.

A DEFINITE 'MUST HAVE'!.......2000-06-29

C.S. Lewis' essays are a MUST for everyone and anyone who is interested in good literature and/or wishes to think about things as we know them. His reflections, although deep and thorough, are also easily grasped and understood; the beauty and simplicity of his words makes these essays accessible to whomever is interested in them, both Christian and non-Christian (I'm an atheist myself). It is impossible for one to read them and not feel 'touched' by something which might be beyond our comprehension...

The Intellectual's Christian.......2000-02-15

If not one of the greatest Christian philosophers of the 20th century (perhaps of all time), C. S. Lewis was certainly among the most accessible to the lay reader not deeply conversant with theology or metaphysics. And as a professor of Mediaeval and Renaissance Literature at Cambridge, and friend and confidant to T. S. Eliot, J.R.R. Tolkien, Dorothy Sayers and many other major literary figures of the early to mid-1900's, his thoughts were constantly refined in discourse with the best minds of his day. This collection is an excellent introduction to Lewis' exceedingly broad range of thought. Mere Christianity was originally presented on BBC as broadcast lectures on the basic teachings of Christianity, which are, as presented by Lewis, quite though-provoking and compelling. The Great Divorce and The Screwtape letters deal fictionally and humorously with, respectively, the mind-set of heaven and hell, as well as the tendencies in human nature which provide both with their denizens. The Abolition of Man seriously tackles the role of the educational process in the development of character (or lack thereof) in its subjects, something quite relevant in a day of increasing mayhem in the schools. And Miracles and The Problem of Pain deal with fundamental philosophical issues that transcend denominational perspectives. These extremely challenging books are recommended, not only as a sampler of Lewis' unique perspective, but as an introduction to a pious life for readers who heretofore have seen faith only from a secular viewpoint.

A good selection.......2000-01-25

C.S. Lewis was such a prolific author on many topics that it can be difficult to know where to start. If you are interested in his Christian writings, these volumes are among his most accessible and popular. Many people discover Lewis through "The Screwtape letters," which is a humorous, fast read that nevertheless tackles deep issues and stays with you. If you are looking for a more intellectual discussion of what Christianity is to Lewis, and why he believes as he does, "Mere Christianity" is the volume to read. If you have read little bits and pieces of Lewis and want to get to know his work more thoroughly, the publishers have made a good selection with these six paperbacks.

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British Apologetics

Mere Christianity/Screwtape
C. S. Lewis
Manufacturer: Harper San Francisco
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0060086130

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British Apologetics.......2004-04-05

A book may have plenty of scripture references, yet its arguments and meaning are not consistent with the truth contained in the Bible. I have read several sermons by Charles Spurgeon. In these sermons he only briefly refers to a passage in the Bible. Yet his messages explain the truth that is contained within the Bible. C.S. Lewis does not refer to any specific passages in the Bible. Most of his arguments are consistent with scripture, but some are plainly not. i.e. One can be a Christian yet not know of the word of God. A serious error in doctrine.

Mere Christianity is a set of radio messages given by C.S. Lewis during world War Two. It is an attempt to make Christianity more acceptable to the British public. C.S. Lewis tries through argument to overcome intellectual arguments to Christianity. This includes God's right to judge sinners and man's need for repentance. Mr. Lewis never explicitly asks one to repent and come to Jesus. Nor does this work have a prayer to ask Jesus to come into your life. These things and all other biblical doctrines are explained and argued without quoting scripture or citation of scripture references. C.S. Lewis attempts to persuade people that their objections to God and other biblical truths are based on faulty thinking. A large portion of the book discusses sin and how man rationalizes about sin. He also discusses Faith and Hope. Also there are arguments about who God is and what he is not, what it means to be a Christian, and what is an institutional Christian church. What is essential for a person to believe in and be a Christian? What attributes are essential for a religious organization to have so that it may be defined as Christian?

The Screwtape letters is about man's falleness. Included in the work are arguments how man's intellectual thoughts effect his daily walk with God. He also argues how a person perceives the World situation effects the Christian walk( W.W.II or peace?) Mostly the work is about how one interacts with other people and the Christian walk . C.S. Lewis uses a unique form of fiction to make his arguments. A correspondence of letters from one demon to another demon. In this way he tries explain how man is tempted and how he falls into temptation or keeps his eyes on Christ.

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A resounding, timeless, classic success. A work of genius

Solid, consistent and enjoyable

Excellent Intro to Foundational Beliefs

Merely wonderful...

Mere Christianity
C. S. Lewis
Manufacturer: Fount
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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The Problem of Pain

The Screwtape Letters

Mere Christianity Journal

The Screwtape Letters

Mere Christianity

ASIN: 0006280544

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A resounding, timeless, classic success. A work of genius.......2007-03-23

What can one say. This book has been around long enough and is so well known I can't even imagine saying anything that has not already been said a thousand times before. C.S. Lewis is an absolute master - light years beyond most thinkers in every way. A must read for any human - Christian or not.

Solid, consistent and enjoyable.......2007-01-16

Excellent Intro to Foundational Beliefs.......2006-02-24

Mere Christianity is just that - the basics. C. S. Lewis was a man who refused to argue about the details. He placed a great importance on the central beliefs. This book is a collection of various works, and covers the basic elements of the Christian faith. I would highly recommend Mere Christianity for anyone; but especially for young people in their twenties. Some of the most seemingly difficult points of scripture are explained here in plain english. This is the place to start.

Merely wonderful..........2005-09-21

C.S. Lewis was a rare individual. One of the few non-clerics to be recognised as a theologian by the Anglican church, he put forth the case for Christianity in general in ways that many Christians beyond the Anglican world can accept, and a clear description for non-Christians of what Christian faith and practice should be. Indeed, Lewis says in his introduction that this text (or indeed, hardly any other he produced) will help in deciding between Christian denominations. While he describes himself as a 'very ordinary layman' in the Church of England, he looks to the broader picture of Christianity, particularly for those who have little or no background. The discussion of division points rarely wins a convert, Lewis observed, and so he leaves the issues of ecclesiology and high theology differences to 'experts'. Lewis is of course selling himself short in this regard, but it helps to reinforce his point.

The book looks at beliefs, both from a 'natural' standpoint as well as a scripture/tradition/reason standpoint. Lewis looks both at belief and unbelief - for example, he states that Christians do not have to see other religions of the world as thoroughly wrong; on the other hand, to be an atheist requires (in Lewis' estimation) that one view religions, all religions, as founded on a mistake. Lewis probably surprised his listeners by starting a statement, 'When I was an atheist...' Lewis is a late-comer to Christianity (most Anglicans in England were cradle-Anglicans). Thus Lewis can speak with the authority of one having deliberately chosen and found Christianity, rather than one who by accident of birth never knew any other (although the case can be made that Lewis was certainly raised in a culture dominated by Christendom).

Lewis also looks at practice - here we are not talking about liturgical niceties or even general church-y practices, but rather the broad strokes of Christian practice - issues of morality, forgiveness, charity, hope and faith. Faith actually has two chapters - one in the more common use of system of belief, but the other in a more subtle, spiritual way. Lewis states in the second chapter that should readers get lost, they should just skip the chapter - while many parts of Christianity will be accessible and intelligible to non-Christians, some things cannot be understood from the outside. This is the 'leave it to God' sense of faith, that is in many ways more of a gift or grace from God than a skill to be developed.

Finally, Lewis looks at personality, not just in the sense of our individual personality, but our status as persons and of God's own personality. Lewis' conclusion that there is no true personality apart from God's is somewhat disquieting; Lewis contrasts Christianity with itself in saying that it is both easy and hard at the same time. Lewis looks for the 'new man' to be a creature in complete submission and abandonment to God. This is a turn both easy and difficult.

'Mere Christianity' was originally a series of radio talks, published as three separate books - 'The Case for Christianity', 'Christian Behaviour', and 'Beyond Personality'. This book brings together all three texts. Lewis' style is witty and engaging, the kind of writing that indeed lives to be read aloud. Lewis debates whether or not it was a good idea to leave the oral-language aspects in the written text (given that the tools for emphasis in written language are different); I think the correct choice was made.

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Audio Pleasure

Mere Christianity
C. S. Lewis
Manufacturer: Blackstone Audiobooks
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: 0786174366

Product Description

Mere Christianity is C. S. Lewis's forceful and accessible doctrine of Christian belief. Bonus feature: The Abolition of Man is an eloquent and erudite essay concerning what education should be and how far from this standard modern education has fallen.

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Audio Pleasure.......2007-01-14

We all know that C.S.Lewis wrote the incredible Mere Christianity as a follow-on to his radio talks during the War, but what an unexpected pleasure to listen to his thoughts by these two articulate narrators on this CD set (M.C. plus Abolition of Man). Great job!

Mere Christianity and The Screwtape Letters (Complete In One Volume)

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Mere Christianity and The Screwtape Letters (Complete In One Volume)

Manufacturer: HarperCollins
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 0060731877

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A way to think through Christianity and talk back to Lewis
Timeless words
A merely wonderful companion
Great prompts for thought and discussion

Mere Christianity Journal
C. S. Lewis
Manufacturer: HarperOne
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Leather Bound

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ASIN: 0060727659
Release Date: 2004-07-06

Book Description

The Mere Christianity Journal is a handsome companion to one of Lewis’s most popular and influential works. A thoughtful guide to the central issues Lewis raises, this journal provides Lewis readers with a guide for deeper reflection. Features include an elegant interior design, ample quotes from Mere Christianity, questions centered on Lewis’s wise words, and plenty of room for reader’s thoughts and ideas. Like Mere Christianity, the journal is broken into four sections with a total of thirty-three chapters corresponding to the book.

Customer Reviews:

A way to think through Christianity and talk back to Lewis.......2006-11-09

Any "directed" journal can be a useful tool. In this case anyone exploring Christianity - whether ot not a Christian personally - will find a means to think through and express their own ideas, particularly when confronted by the views of C.S. Lewis. A stimulating exercise.

Timeless words.......2006-07-11

It feels almost embarrassing to jot your thoughts down alongside those of this great author. But Lewis' writing is nothing if not "inspirational," in the very best sense of the word.

A merely wonderful companion.......2005-03-07

C.S. Lewis was a rare individual. One of the few non-clerics to be recognised as a theologian by the Anglican church, he put forth the case for Christianity in general in ways that many Christians beyond the Anglican world can accept, and a clear description for non-Christians of what Christian faith and practice should be. Indeed, Lewis says in his introduction that this text (or indeed, hardly any other he produced) will help in deciding between Christian denominations. While he describes himself as a 'very ordinary layman' in the Church of England, he looks to the broader picture of Christianity, particularly for those who have little or no background. The discussion of division points rarely wins a convert, Lewis observed, and so he leaves the issues of ecclesiology and high theology differences to 'experts'. Lewis is of course selling himself short in this regard, but it helps to reinforce his point.

The book at the heart of this journal, 'Mere Christianity', looks at beliefs, both from a 'natural' standpoint as well as a scripture/tradition/reason standpoint. Lewis looks both at belief and unbelief - for example, he states that Christians do not have to see other religions of the world as thoroughly wrong; on the other hand, to be an atheist requires (in Lewis' estimation) that one view religions, all religions, as founded on a mistake. Lewis probably surprised his listeners by starting a statement, 'When I was an atheist...' Lewis is a late-comer to Christianity (most Anglicans in England were cradle-Anglicans). Thus Lewis can speak with the authority of one having deliberately chosen and found Christianity, rather than one who by accident of birth never knew any other (although the case can be made that Lewis was certainly raised in a culture dominated by Christendom).

Lewis also looks at practice - here we are not talking about liturgical niceties or even general church-y practices, but rather the broad strokes of Christian practice - issues of morality, forgiveness, charity, hope and faith. Faith actually has two chapters - one in the more common use of system of belief, but the other in a more subtle, spiritual way. Lewis states in the second chapter that should readers get lost, they should just skip the chapter - while many parts of Christianity will be accessible and intelligible to non-Christians, some things cannot be understood from the outside. This is the 'leave it to God' sense of faith, that is in many ways more of a gift or grace from God than a skill to be developed.

Finally, Lewis looks at personality, not just in the sense of our individual personality, but our status as persons and of God's own personality. Lewis' conclusion that there is no true personality apart from God's is somewhat disquieting; Lewis contrasts Christianity with itself in saying that it is both easy and hard at the same time. Lewis looks for the `new man' to be a creature in complete submission and abandonment to God. This is a turn both easy and difficult.

'Mere Christianity' was originally a series of radio talks, published as three separate books - 'The Case for Christianity', 'Christian Behaviour', and 'Beyond Personality'. This book brings together all three texts. Lewis' style is witty and engaging, the kind of writing that indeed lives to be read aloud. Lewis debates whether or not it was a good idea to leave the oral-language aspects in the written text (given that the tools for emphasis in written language are different); I think the correct choice was made.

This journal draws quotations and passages from each of the sections of 'Mere Christianity', and poses them as matter for reflection and questioning. This is a guide for conversation with oneself, with God, and with others about the deeper meanings in life.

Great prompts for thought and discussion.......2004-07-08

"Mere Christianity" happens to be one of my favorite books, and I've been looking for something to use in my "quiet time," so I was thrilled to find this journal. For what it is (writing prompts, quotes, and blank pages), it does seem a bit pricey, BUT the binding on the one I bought (leather) is gorgeous.

I plan to use this personally for my devotional time, and may also use the discussion guides for a future study group. If you'd like to interact with "Mere Christianity" on a level that personalizes and applies its message to your life, this is a good place to start.

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