Mere Christianity [Special Edition] (Hardcover)

For Christians, I would say that this book is a must-buy. It helps to edify the case supporting Christ and raises thought provoking issues that any Christian should think about. It is a brilliant book that serves to stimulate Christian thought as to the real identity of Christ and other pertinent issues regarding morality and much more.

For non-Christians, I can understand if some do not like this book. However, in my opinion, Mere Christianity steers a balanced approach to Christianity which serves the non-Christian just as much, arguably more than, as the Christian. If people are interested in seeking further clarity as to the identity of their own moral being, God and Christ, with an open mind - this book is fantastic for such readers. Moreover, I think that this book is suited to those who 'believe in God' but in reality such an proposition does not change their life the slightest, nor do they know anything about their God.

I highly recommend this book for everyone who intends to broaden their mind if nothing else. However, I would confidently presume that the high majority of readers would be more than satisfied with this read. One of Lewis' best!!

Enjoy!!!!

In Book One: Right and Wrong As a Clue To the Meaning Of The Universe, Lewis looks at the law of human nature (inherent knowledge of right and wrong), certain objections, the reality of the law and that which lies behind the law. Here he discusses the materialist, the life-force and the religious views of life.

Book Two is a discussion on what Christians believe, in terms of the aforementioned occupied territory, a coming invasion, the penitent, and the practical conclusion. This section also deals with pantheism, dualism, free will, the divinity of Christ and God's intentions with the world.

Book Three investigates Christian behaviour, in terms of the cardinal virtues, social and personal morality, morality and psychology, marriage, forgiveness, the great sin (narcissistic pride; in this regard, please also read People Of The Lie by M Scott Peck), and what charity, hope and faith really mean.

Book 4 is a captivating explanation of the doctrine of the trinity. I found this part very interesting and sometimes deeply moving. Lewis speculates on the nature of time, the nature of man and the nature of God, as the Father the source, the Son an emanation of the source and the Holy Spirit as the spirit of love between Father and Son. Lewis explains what he thinks is the process whereby the individual receives a higher nature. This change in consciousness (infusion of the Holy Spirit) leads to a transcendence of the mortal nature by transforming the individual into a child of the divine.

He argues convincingly for personalities in God and God as the ultimate personality. I found this very illuminating, also in light of having recently read the books by Deborah Whitehouse and Alan Anderson on Process New Thought, especially their view of the personhood of God and panentheism as it emerges from the work of Alfred North Whitehead.

Mere Christianity is a most memorable work that expresses ideas that are relevant to our times. It is a very refreshing expression of a personal Christian belief system that could serve as a strong antidote to the dictatorship of dogma or the staid boredom often associated with 20th century religion in the West. Deeply illuminating, I am sure Lewis' words make many people reconsider many ideas that they had taken for granted.

I am not sure how close Lewis came to the truth in every respect, but much in his vision is inspiring, noble and infused with a sense of logic and common sense. Lewis' writing has an uplifting effect on the spirit. I recommend Mere Christianity to all people of faith and those in search of meaning. One might not ultimately agree with everything, but the ideas expressed here certainly make you think.