C.S. Lewis and the Problem of God

C.S. Lewis's understanding of his vocation and philosophical journey is essential for reading his works well, including his account of "mere Christianity," which emphasizes self-determination, Christ's human nature, and a relativizing of atonement theories.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 76 pages
Publication date: 23 May 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Understanding C.S. Lewis' vocation is essential for reading his works well. It is crucial to know how he came to it, encompassing his long and winding philosophical journey and recurring experiences of joy. Lewis approached philosophical theology with a critical eye, dismissing certain proofs but offering compelling arguments in favor of theism, particularly Christianity. His account of "mere Christianity" highlights the importance of self-determination, emphasizes Christ's human nature, and challenges traditional atonement theories. Furthermore, Lewis' understanding of faith, his exploration of petitionary and imprecatory prayers, and his emphasis on theosis/deification are considered essential aspects of his thought.

Lewis' philosophical journey began in his early years, influenced by his Anglican upbringing and the teachings of his father, a professor of English literature. He attended Oxford University, where he studied literature and philosophy, and later became a professor of English literature at Cambridge University. During his academic career, Lewis developed a deep interest in philosophy and theology, particularly the works of Plato, Aristotle, and St. Augustine.

One of Lewis' key contributions to philosophical theology was his rejection of the idea that proofs could establish the existence of God. Instead, he argued that theism could be established through logical reasoning and the consideration of the natural world. Lewis believed that the existence of the universe, with its intricate design and order, pointed to the existence of a powerful and intelligent creator. He also argued that the existence of morality and the human capacity for love and reason suggested the existence of a moral lawgiver.

In his book "Mere Christianity," Lewis presented his vision of "mere Christianity," which he defined as the belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior of humanity. Lewis emphasized the centrality of self-determination in this belief, arguing that humans have the ability to choose their own path in life and to follow God's will. He also stressed the importance of Christ's human nature, highlighting his compassion, empathy, and sacrifice for the sake of humanity.

Lewis' account of "mere Christianity" challenged traditional atonement theories, which held that God's love for humanity was conditional on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. Instead, Lewis proposed that atonement was a process of reconciliation between God and humanity, achieved through the belief in Jesus Christ and the submission of one's will to God's will. Lewis believed that this process of reconciliation could be initiated by humans through their own efforts to live a moral life and to seek God's forgiveness.

In addition to his work on philosophical theology, Lewis also wrote extensively on other topics, including literature, science, and religion. His book "The Chronicles of Narnia" is a series of children's fantasy novels that explore themes of faith, courage, and loyalty. Lewis' use of imagination and storytelling in these novels has made them beloved by generations of readers.

Lewis' understanding of faith was rooted in his belief in the existence of God and the importance of personal relationship with him. He believed that faith was not a blind belief or a matter of intellectual assent but a living and active relationship with God. Lewis explored the nature of prayer and the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer in his book "The Problem of Pain." He argued that prayer was not a means of changing God's mind but a way of expressing one's faith and seeking God's guidance.

Lewis' emphasis on theosis/deification was a central aspect of his philosophical and theological vision. He believed that the ultimate goal of human existence was to become more like God, to achieve a state of spiritual perfection and unity with him. Lewis argued that this process of becoming more like God could be achieved through the practice of spiritual disciplines, such as prayer, fasting, and meditation, and through the study of the Bible and other religious texts.

In conclusion, C.S. Lewis' vocation as a philosopher and theologian was marked by his critical approach to proofs, his emphasis on theism and Christianity, and his vision of "mere Christianity." His account of "mere Christianity" highlighted the importance of self-determination, emphasized Christ's human nature, and challenged traditional atonement theories. Lewis' understanding of faith was rooted in his belief in the existence of God and the importance of personal relationship with him. His emphasis on theosis/deification was a central aspect of his philosophical and theological vision, and his books, such as "The Chronicles of Narnia" and "The Problem of Pain," have had a lasting impact on the lives of countless readers.

ISBN-13: 9781009283243