Mere Christianity

Arguably the 20th century's most influential Christian writer, C.S. Lewis sought to explain and defend the beliefs that nearly all Christians at all times hold in common. His simple yet deeply profound classic, originally delivered as a series of radio broadcasts, is a book to be thoroughly digested by believers and generously shared with skeptics.

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.

Clive Staples Lewis (1898-1963) was one of the intellectual giants of the twentieth century and arguably the most influential Christian writer of his day. He was a Fellow and Tutor in English literature at Oxford University until 1954, when he was unanimously elected to the Chair of Medieval and Renaissance English at Cambridge University, a position he held until his retirement. His major contributions in literary criticism, children's literature, fantasy literature, and popular theology brought him international renown and acclaim.

He wrote more than thirty books, allowing him to reach a vast audience, and his works continue to attract thousands of new readers every year. His most distinguished and popular accomplishments include, The Chronicles of Narnia, Out of the Silent Planet, The Four Loves, The Screwtape Letters, and Mere Christianity.

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Clive Staples Lewis (1898-1963) fue uno de los intelectuales mÁs importantes del siglo veinte y podrÍa decirse que fue el escritor cristiano mÁs influyente de su tiempo. Fue profesor particular de literatura inglesa y miembro de la junta de gobierno en la Universidad Oxford hasta 1954, cuando fue nombrado profesor de literatura medieval y renacentista en la Universidad Cambridge, cargo que desempeÑÓ hasta que se jubilÓ. Sus contribuciones a la crÍtica literaria, literatura infantil, literatura fantÁstica y teologÍa popular le trajeron fama y aclamaciÓn a nivel internacional. C. S. Lewis escribiÓ mÁs de treinta libros, lo cual le permitiÓ alcanzar una enorme audiencia, y sus obras aÚn atraen a miles de nuevos lectores cada aÑo. Sus mÁs distinguidas y populares obras incluyen Las CrÓnicas de Narnia, Los Cuatro Amores, Cartas del Diablo a Su Sobrino y Mero Cristianismo.

The late Lewis, Oxford professor, scholar, author, and Christian apologist, presents the listener with a case for orthodox Christianity. This is definitely not the shouting, stomping, sweating, spitting televangelist fare so often parodied; Lewis employs logical arguments that are eloquently expressed. He describes those doctrines that the four major denominations in Britain (Anglican, Methodist, Presbyterian, and Roman Catholic) would have in common, e.g., original sin, the transcendent Creator God, and the divinity of Jesus as well as his atonement and bodily resurrection. Geoffrey Howard reads both works, and his performance is superb; he is clear and unhurried, giving just the right emphasis and/or inflection. The volume on the Blackstone edition is recorded at a higher level than HarperAudio's. Otherwise there were no perceived differences in the recordings. If your institution can afford it, the Blackstone production would be preferred because of its sturdy case and the announcement of side changes. Whether or not one agrees with Lewis's arguments, it is a pleasure to hear such a skillful reading of an eloquent work. Public libraries as well as institutions that teach religion/theology or speech should consider. Michael T. Fein, Central Virginia Community Coll., Lynchburg Copyright 2001 Library Journal.

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Reviewed by Lorie Reading (North Judson, IN), September 08, 2009

I have a colleged age son who is questioning christianity. I got this book for him, however decided to read it first myself. I found it quite deep as CS Lewis is a deep thinker. I am highlighting some very perfound insights and find it simply true! What is truth? Read this book! I was somewhat disappointed in the craftsmanship of the book itself. It seems to be made from recycled paper which in its self is a good thing however the durability is questionable. I have decided to look for this book in a hardback form so I can keep it in my library many years.

Reviewed by Jackie T Corey (Townsend, GA), July 31, 2009

A timeless treatise on what Christianity is and what Christians believe. Excellent for the new Christian. Even though written during World War II, Lewis' points are still salient today.

Reviewed by Steve Skeete (Bridgetown, Barbados), July 09, 2009

C.S Lewis is unquestionably, one of the greatest writers of all time, Christian or otherwise. Simple yet profound, clear yet thought-provoking, scholarly yet thoroughly entertaining, he has no rivals among Christian writers. Mere Christianty is a classic in the true sense since it is a book for all times. The arguments Lewis uses in defense of the Christian faith are quintesentially Lewis. He is a master at drawing you into an argument and making it feel like your own, except you could not have said it better. He leaves you with that "why didn't I think of that" feeling. Although they are some who do not agree with Lewis' arguments, I know of none who, having read Mere Christianity, do not understand his explanation of foundational Christian doctrines. As a scholar he has a mastery of the language he uses and is an excellent communicator of thoughts and ideas. I would encourage any new or young believer in Christ to read Mere Christianity. When they do they will not only encounter a brilliant mind at work, but will get a beautiful initiation into Christian truth.

Reviewed by Eric Mccoy (Harlingen, TX), May 20, 2009

Well written and logically laid out defense of Christianity. A must read for anyone who is called to defend Christianity from those who would suggest our faith is not logical or reasonable.

Reviewed by Lisa (Maine), March 31, 2009

Use wisdom when reading material that is categorized "Christian" as c.s. lewis materials all seem to be so labeled. Do a little research and you'll find that this author's 'christian' beliefs are more than questionable. In fact some of his own quotes reveal occultism fascinated him. Does that sound merely Christian? You've been warned. Don't follow the sheeple, follow the LORD.

Reviewed by Irudayam Adaikalam (Elmont, NY), February 04, 2009

Every Christian must read this book at least once a year, if he/she wants to be genuine and faithful to Jesus' way of life. No other author in my opinion has expressed the basics of 'mere Christianity' without the variety of institutional fringes.

Reviewed by Linda Jordan (Clayton, DE), June 26, 2008

Very good. I really enjoyed the content and it gave me a lot to think about.

Reviewed by Jennifer Aitchison (Beeton, ON, Canada), March 12, 2008

This is a great book, a classic. Every Christian should read this book. C.S. Lewis is brilliant, very insightful and thought provoking.

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