Shortly after I became a Christian, when I was still grappling with apologetics literature and feeling a little adrift in my new faith, I was given C.S. Lewis' 'Mere Christianity' as a gift by a wise and much respected work colleague. Then, as now, Mere Christianity was a reminder that 'Christ offers something for nothing: He even offers everything for nothing.' In exploring Christ's very remarkable offer, the book offers a forceful and rational case for Christianity, helpful for believers and nonbelievers alike.
Mere Christianity began as a series of radio talks that Lewis presented to the British public during World War II. His purpose was to explain the essential elements of the Christian faith, that is, 'mere' or basic Christianity, without describing the particular beliefs of various denominations.
Mere Christianity begins by presenting the moral argument for the existence of God. Humans have a moral compass within us which proves that right and wrong exist. This standard is not something we developed ourselves or that evolved in human society, so it must come from an external source; namely, from God. However, because we continue to fail to live up to this standard, God sent a Saviour to make us right. Lewis emphasises that the world in which we now live is enemy-occupied territory, and today is our chance to choose to join God's side freely, a chance that will not last forever. We must take it or leave it.
Mere Christianity then explores a range of moral issues, including sexual morality, forgiveness, and pride. Lewis concludes by presenting the case for Christ and the need that every one of us has to decide whether to put our faith in Him or not. In explaining man's relationship with and need for Christ, Lewis writes:

God designed the human machine to run on Himself. He Himself is the fuel our spirits were designed to burn, or the food our spirits were designed to feed on. There is no other. That is why it is just not good asking God to make us happy in our own way without bothering about religion. God cannot give us a happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing.

In a world that is often hostile to religion, particularly the Christian faith, Mere Christianity stands as a testament to truth, love, faith, and the value of human life.

Catherine Field