Katelyn Joyce- Mere Christianity and Morality

 I took a Philosophy of Religion class last semester where we analyzed different arguments for and against the existence of God. Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis serves a very similar purpose. He lays out his reasoning to support his belief in God. One element that Lewis touches on in this book is how similar many religions are. He specifically looks at their moral codes. He states that these moral codes cannot possibly be just an invention made by humans; it must have been invented by an omnipotent being. He shares that this being reveals himself to us through our moral law. Though I would agree with his overall statement, this led me to wonder how can someone be a moral individual without God. We can see that there are a great number of individuals who do not practice any religion yet they hold themselves to a strict moral code. If God reveals himself through morality, how can one follow it so closely and not know him? This leads me to believe that God was indeed the creator of moral codes, but it is not sufficient evidence to make the claim of his existence. At the end of part two, Lewis shares that worshipping Jesus is the only way to be truly virtuous. This reminded me of learning about Virtue Ethics in my PHIL 304 class. Virtue ethics suggests that we acquire virtue through certain practices. This leads me to wonder if those who do not worship Jesus can be virtuous. I think one can be virtuous without practicing virtue ethics. Therefore, the presence of morality cannot justify the belief in God.  I would love to hear others thoughts and opinions. I do agree with Lewis, though, that morality ultimately consists of harmony between individuals, harmony within oneself. He also adds that one must also constantly try to achieve salvation. I am not sold on that piece of the argument at the moment. I do not think that searching for salvation is what can make someone moral or immoral. By my understanding of his statement, the most mean hearted individual could profess salvation and be considered more moral than an individual who seeks harmony within others, but not within themselves or searches for salvation. I would love to know how others have interpreted this.


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