This guide offers a structured exploration of C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity, utilizing engaging questions to deepen understanding of its core principles and arguments.
Purpose of the Guide
This study guide serves as a companion to C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity, designed to facilitate a deeper and more interactive engagement with his profound exploration of the Christian faith. It aims to move beyond simple comprehension, prompting thoughtful discussion and personal reflection on Lewis’s arguments. The questions provided are intended to unearth the nuances of his reasoning, encouraging participants to critically assess and debate his ideas.
Furthermore, the guide seeks to bridge the gap between Lewis’s historical context – wartime Britain – and contemporary life, exploring how his insights remain relevant today. It’s geared towards sparking debate about the extent of agreement with Lewis’s concepts and how we might practically apply them to our own lives, fostering a richer understanding of Mere Christianity’s enduring message.
Historical Context of Mere Christianity (BBC Talks)
Mere Christianity originated as a series of radio talks broadcast by C.S. Lewis on the BBC during World War II, between 1941 and 1944. This wartime setting profoundly shaped the work; Lewis aimed to articulate a core set of beliefs common to nearly all Christians, offering a reasoned defense of faith amidst widespread upheaval and uncertainty. The broadcasts were intended for a broad audience, many grappling with existential questions prompted by the conflict.
Understanding this context is crucial. Lewis wasn’t addressing a specifically religious audience, but rather seeking to present Christianity as a rational and compelling worldview to a society facing immense challenges. The discussion points within this guide should be considered through this lens, recognizing Lewis’s initial intent to reach those questioning or unfamiliar with Christian tenets.
Core Themes of Mere Christianity
Mere Christianity centers on identifying the fundamental beliefs shared across most Christian denominations, stripping away sectarian differences to reveal the “mere” essence of the faith. Key themes include the existence of a universal moral law, pointing to a divine source, and the necessity of acknowledging human sinfulness. Lewis explores the implications of the incarnation – God becoming human in Jesus Christ – as the pivotal event in salvation history.
Discussion questions should focus on these core tenets. Examining Lewis’s arguments for the objectivity of morality, the nature of divine power, and the unique claims of Christianity are central. This study guide encourages readers to grapple with these concepts, assessing their relevance and resonance in a contemporary context.
Book I: Right and Wrong as a Clue to the Meaning of the Universe
This section investigates the universal moral law, exploring its origins and implications as evidence for a higher power, prompting critical discussion.
Chapter 1: The Law of Human Nature ⏤ Discussion Points
Delve into Lewis’s initial exploration of the “Law of Human Nature.” Consider: What distinguishes a simple quarrel from genuine fighting, and why is this distinction crucial? How does Lewis define the “Law of Nature,” and what evidence supports its existence across cultures and time?
Explore the two fundamental concepts presented in this chapter. Do you agree with Lewis’s assertion that a universal moral law points to a divine source? How does this law manifest in everyday life, and what are its implications for understanding human behavior? Discuss instances where this law seems to be violated or ignored, and the consequences that follow.
Reflect on personal experiences that illustrate the Law of Human Nature. How does recognizing this law impact your interactions with others and your understanding of morality?
Distinguishing Quarrelling from Fighting
Lewis posits a critical difference: quarrelling involves arguing about something within the accepted moral code, while fighting arises when someone breaks the code itself. Consider examples – a debate over politics is a quarrel, but theft or violence is fighting.
Discuss why this distinction matters. If we only see disagreements as quarrels, do we risk overlooking genuine moral violations? How does recognizing the difference impact our response to conflict? Does this framework accurately reflect real-world situations, or are there grey areas?
Reflect on personal experiences. Have you ever mistaken a quarrel for a fight, or vice versa? How did this misjudgment affect the outcome? How can we better discern the true nature of conflict?
The Concept of the Law of Nature
Lewis introduces the “Law of Nature” not as a set of rules discovered through observation, but as a universal sense of right and wrong inherent in all people. It’s a feeling that certain actions are objectively wrong, regardless of cultural norms or personal preferences.
Explore the implications of this idea. If such a law exists, where does it come from? Is it simply a product of evolution, or does it point to a higher power? How does it account for moral disagreements across cultures?
Consider examples. Are there any actions universally condemned, even in societies with vastly different values? Does the existence of moral codes support Lewis’s claim?
Key Concepts of Chapter 1
Chapter 1 centers around two fundamental ideas: the distinction between quarreling and fighting, and the existence of a universal moral law. Quarreling involves arguing about preferences, while fighting arises from recognizing a shared standard of right and wrong violated by one party.
Discuss how this distinction illuminates the nature of morality. If all disagreements were merely quarrels, would concepts like justice or fairness even exist? How does the experience of moral outrage support Lewis’s argument?
Reflect on the implications of a universal moral law. Does it suggest a moral lawgiver? How does it challenge purely materialistic worldviews?
Chapter 2: Some Objections ⏤ Exploring Counterarguments
This chapter tackles common objections to the existence of a universal moral law. A primary challenge is whether morality is simply a product of social convention – something created and enforced by societies, rather than an objective reality.
Consider: If morality is merely conventional, why do we often judge other cultures’ moral codes? Does the fact that moral rules vary across cultures disprove their objective truth, or simply their specific expression?
Discuss subjectivist views, arguing morality is based on individual feelings. How does Lewis respond to this? What are the implications if morality is entirely subjective?
Is the Moral Law Simply Social Convention?
Lewis probes whether the moral law is merely a construct of societal norms, questioning if it’s simply what people agree is right and wrong. If so, morality becomes relative, varying with culture and time.
Discuss: If morality is purely conventional, why do we feel justified in criticizing the moral standards of other societies, past or present? Does genuine moral progress even become possible?
Explore the idea that if morality is just convention, then older conventions would be seen as arbitrary. Why do we still recognize the injustice of past practices, if they were simply “different” not “wrong”?
Addressing Subjectivist Views on Morality
Lewis tackles the idea that morality is entirely subjective – that “right” and “wrong” are simply matters of personal feeling or opinion. He argues this leads to problems, as it undermines meaningful moral debate and judgment.
Consider: If morality is subjective, can we truly condemn actions like cruelty or injustice? Does it become impossible to say someone is objectively wrong, only that we disagree with their preferences?
Reflect on whether genuine moral disagreement is even possible within a purely subjectivist framework. If everyone’s feelings are equally valid, what’s the point of arguing about what should be done?
Book II: What Christians Believe
This section delves into central Christian doctrines explored by Lewis, including the Divine Power and the Incarnation, prompting thoughtful examination of faith.
The Christian Beliefs Lewis Explores
Lewis systematically unpacks foundational Christian beliefs, moving beyond mere tradition to present a rational and compelling case for faith. He examines the concept of God, not as a distant creator, but as a personal and involved deity.
Key questions arise: What does it mean for God to be both all-powerful and all-loving? How can we reconcile the existence of suffering with a benevolent God? Lewis tackles these challenging inquiries with clarity and intellectual honesty.
Furthermore, he explores the Trinity – the belief in God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – and the significance of Jesus Christ’s divinity and sacrifice. The study guide encourages reflection on these core tenets, prompting readers to consider their own understanding of these profound beliefs and their implications for daily life.
The Myth of the Divine Power
Lewis challenges the prevalent notion of a “divine power” as a vague, impersonal force, arguing it’s a diminished and ultimately unsatisfying concept. He contends this idea arises from a desire to retain some sense of the sacred while rejecting the demands of a personal God.
He proposes that the ancient myths and pagan religions, while containing glimpses of truth, ultimately fall short of providing a complete or fulfilling understanding of the divine. These myths often depict gods who are flawed, capricious, and subject to the same limitations as humans.
The study guide prompts discussion on why this “divine power” myth is so appealing, and how it differs fundamentally from the Christian understanding of God as a loving, purposeful, and all-powerful creator. It encourages critical thinking about the nature of worship and the human need for transcendence.
The Incarnation ⸺ Understanding the Core Doctrine
Lewis meticulously explains the central Christian doctrine of the Incarnation – God becoming man in the person of Jesus Christ. He addresses the apparent paradox of a fully divine being also being fully human, emphasizing it’s not simply a “good man” but God himself entering creation.
The study guide facilitates exploration of why the Incarnation is essential for understanding God’s relationship with humanity and the problem of sin. Discussion questions focus on the implications of God’s humility in taking on human form and suffering.
Furthermore, it prompts reflection on the uniqueness of Christ and the challenges of accepting this doctrine in a modern, skeptical world. It encourages readers to grapple with the profound mystery and transformative power of the Incarnation.
Book III: Christian Behavior
This section delves into practical Christian living, exploring virtues, values, and applying Lewis’s insights to contemporary challenges through focused discussion questions.
Chapter 12: Faith ⸺ Strengthening Weak Faith
This chapter focuses on the nature of faith and how to nurture it, even when doubts arise. Discussion questions should explore Lewis’s perspective on faith as an action, not merely an intellectual assent. Consider: When experiencing weak faith, what practical steps can individuals take to strengthen their belief, as suggested by Lewis?
Further questions might ask participants to reflect on personal experiences with doubt and how Mere Christianity has impacted their faith journey. How does Lewis differentiate between belief in and belief about God? Explore how understanding this distinction can bolster faith. Finally, discuss the role of prayer and spiritual disciplines in cultivating a stronger, more resilient faith, drawing directly from Lewis’s arguments.
Christian Virtue and Values ⸺ Living a Moral Life
This section delves into the practical implications of Christian belief, emphasizing the importance of striving for moral excellence. Discussion questions should center on why Lewis believes consistent effort towards a moral life is crucial for Christians. How does he connect virtue to the very nature of following Christ?
Explore questions like: What challenges do modern individuals face in consistently living a moral life, and how might Lewis’s insights offer guidance? Discuss the concept of “effort” in the Christian life – is it about earning salvation, or something else entirely? Finally, consider how Lewis’s teachings on virtues like humility, forgiveness, and charity can be applied to contemporary ethical dilemmas.
Applying Lewis’s Insights to Modern Life
This exploration focuses on the relevance of Mere Christianity in today’s world. Discussion questions should prompt participants to consider how Lewis’s arguments address contemporary issues and challenges. How do his ideas on morality, faith, and reason resonate – or clash – with modern perspectives?
Consider questions such as: How can Lewis’s concept of the “Law of Human Nature” be applied to debates surrounding social justice and ethical behavior? Does his apologetic approach remain effective in a secularized society? Furthermore, explore how his insights can inform personal decisions and contribute to a more meaningful and virtuous life in the 21st century.
Discussion & Reflection Questions
These prompts encourage both group dialogue and individual contemplation, fostering a deeper engagement with Lewis’s ideas and their personal implications.
General Discussion Prompts for Group Study
Begin by exploring the preface: What’s the significance of the title, “Mere Christianity”? How does Lewis define this “mere” essence of the faith, stripping away denominational differences? Delve into Book I, specifically Chapter 1. Can participants clearly articulate the distinction between quarrelling and fighting as Lewis presents it?
Further, discuss the “Law of Human Nature” – is it universally acknowledged, or culturally relative? Moving to Chapter 2, analyze the objections Lewis addresses. Do group members find his responses to the claim that morality is merely social convention convincing?
Finally, consider how Lewis’s arguments resonate with contemporary moral debates. How might his insights be applied to current ethical dilemmas, and do participants agree with his overall framework?
Personal Reflection Questions
Consider: How has reading Mere Christianity impacted your understanding of the fundamental tenets of the Christian faith? Reflect on moments where you’ve recognized the “Law of Human Nature” in your own life or observed it in others.
Specifically, think about Chapter 12 and the discussion of faith. When have you experienced moments of weak faith, and what steps did you take – or could you take – to strengthen it?
Moreover, how does Lewis’s exploration of Christian virtue and values challenge or affirm your own moral compass? Can you identify specific areas where you strive to better embody these virtues in your daily life? Ultimately, how has this book influenced your personal spiritual journey?
