Mere Lewis: A Critique of C. S. Lewis’s “Mere Christianity”

Lewis’s book is certainly an interesting read and more than anything illustrates the fact that Christianity is truly a faith. The attempt to prove it logically fails, however, and since this is the object of the book, it also comes up short. The purpose of this essay is not to ridicule Christianity. As mentioned multiple times, one is certainly welcome to accept Christianity or any other belief system based on faith or preference. When one attempts to prove factual a faith that demands acceptance or death, however, it becomes fair game. In fact, one could make the argument that others have a responsibility to refute or present alternative arguments to any attempt to force acceptance of a religious or spiritual idea on anyone. This is what Lewis does in "Mere Christianity." He attempts to craft a case for Christianity so that skeptics will have no choice but to accept it, even if against their will. Religious belief cannot be proven. It is, and must be, a matter of faith to some extent and in some regard. That is, in fact, the beauty of spiritual matters. They are protected from the harsh lights of the laboratory and can provide hope and comfort. Hope only comes from unproven sources, after all, and humanity often needs it. It is my opinion that Lewis has done Christianity a disservice with his book and jeopardized the freedom of those who resist. "Mere Christianity" proves nothing and simply muddies the waters for those searching for spiritual fulfillment. This is why this essay exists. Presenting a belief system for consideration is certainly a legitimate pursuit, but attempting to drive it down throats with the cudgel of intellectual process is another matter and requires extraordinary proof. The book falls well short of the mark and must therefore be challenged. This is the purpose of this essay.