Mere Christianity

C.S. Lewis

In Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis aims to prove to the sensible skeptic that God does exist and that He sent His son Jesus Christ to redeem the world. The book begins with a logical proof for the Christian God and then transitions into a discussion of the common ground upon which all of those of the Christian faith stand together. Readers at all stages of belief will find that Mere Christianity provides an approachable path to discovering a powerful, rational case for the Christian faith.

This book's Disciple Making Purpose

Step Nine on the Predictable Pathway, consecration, brings with it the challenge to go all in with the Lord. It is where we have seen most of our permanent losses along the road to spiritual transformation. Much like Saul, it seems that as the intensity of transformation and the challenges of change press on the disciples, thedisciples “cop out” and exchange what they know to be true for anything quicker or easier. Lewis makes such a compelling argument for the value and veracity of the faith which seems to help fight the temptation to quit or make that exchange. Much like Birthright it moves the needle a bit deeper, with deeper Biblical understanding of our faith. Though Mere Christianity seems a bit tougher read, do not avoid this book. Disciples need depth and they can handle depth.

Key Topics or Truths

Argument for Our Faith
Right and Wrong
Christian Belief
Christian Behaviour
Christian Living

This Book is Good For...

Everyone. It is a must-read, at some point, for every believer.

How We Use this Book to Make Disciples

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We originally tried to use this book as a complete read (the group would read the entire book and then review it) but the disciples and the truth seemed to get lost or misplaced on the way. We now break the reading into three sections (one section per week) and review each section after the reading. A sample reading plan and questions are included below.

This book requires little extra preparation or understanding by the leader. It is complete in its content and biblical support, but it is not an easy read (it is written at a high school level or higher). You and the disciples will need to  have time to read and digest the truths. You do not want disciples to miss the content of this work. If you are a seasoned leader and haven’t read the book in a while, you will need to refresh yourself before the group meeting.

Week 1 – Right and Wrong as a Clue to the Meaning of the Universe & What Christians Believe
Book I (Chapters 1–5) & Book II (Chapters 1–5)
Theme: Moral law, God’s reality, and the basics of Christian belief

Sample Questions:

  • How does Lewis argue for the reality of a moral law?
  • What misconceptions about God does Lewis address?
  • How do these chapters describe the need for Jesus?

Week 2 – Christian Behaviour
Book III (Chapters 1–12)
Theme: Living out the Christian life through virtues and transformation

Sample Questions:

  • How does Lewis define the purpose of morality?
  • Which virtue or teaching challenged you most?
  • How does Lewis connect personal morality with societal good?

Week 3 – Beyond Personality: Or First Steps in the Doctrine of the Trinity
Book IV (Chapters 1–11)
Theme: Understanding God’s nature, the Trinity, and becoming like Christ

Sample Questions:

  • How does Lewis explain the Trinity in accessible terms?
  • What does it mean to become a “new man” in Christ?
  • How can we apply Lewis’s theology to daily living?

The overall goal of our discussion is to reinforce the logical proof of the Gospel (apologetics) to undergird the disciples as they move towards consecration. We discuss and review the book using the sample questions or by asking, “What stuck out?” for each chapter of the week. We do not allow cross-talk.

Real Life Story

Mrs. Porter gave this book to our Lead Storyteller in his first year of Christianity. He didn’t have the heart to tell her that it was too hard to read. It was just too much. He put it in a pile. A year or so later, Doug was bored sitting in his “cabana house” as a live-in pool boy for a rich family. He remembers working his way through Mere Christianity and feeling, “I am not alone. He gets me.” Doug tells how the truths began to fuel a better understanding of his faith. Now years and years later, Doug credits Mere Christianity as a foundational block in his faith.

Know Issues or Controversies

No Known Issues

Mere Christianity is one of the most comprehensive books ever printed to help believers understand their faith. It is just that simple.

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C.S. Lewis
Book Details
Pathway Steps: 9
  • Phase: Year 2
  • Book Type: Non-Fiction
  • Flair: Instructive, Storytelling
  • Tags: Critical Thinking, Difficult Read
Reading Time
Three Weeks
Start Reading After Week 28
11 Pages per Day
16 Minutes per Day
Related Reads

This book compliments Birthright and is a great balance before or after Way of the Pilgrim.