C.S. Lewis The Most Reluctant Convert Quote
Introduction
Clive Staples Lewis, commonly known as C.S. Lewis, was a renowned British writer and scholar who lived from 1898 to 1963. He was a prolific author, writing about a wide range of topics, including theology, literature, and philosophy. One of his most famous quotes is the "most reluctant convert" quote, which has become a popular reference among Christians and non-Christians alike.
The Most Reluctant Convert Quote
The most reluctant convert quote comes from Lewis's autobiography, "Surprised by Joy," in which he recounts his journey from atheism to Christianity. The quote reads:
"You must picture me alone in that room in Magdalen, night after night, feeling, whenever my mind lifted even for a second from my work, the steady, unrelenting approach of Him whom I so earnestly desired not to meet. That which I greatly feared had at last come upon me. In the Trinity Term of 1929 I gave in, and admitted that God was God, and knelt and prayed: perhaps, that night, the most dejected and reluctant convert in all England."
This quote has become famous because it captures the essence of Lewis's struggle to come to faith. He was a committed atheist who had spent much of his life resisting the idea of God. However, he found himself unable to escape the sense that there was something more to life than what he could see and touch.
Background
To understand the most reluctant convert quote, it is helpful to know a bit about Lewis's life and beliefs. Lewis was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, in 1898. His mother died when he was young, and he was sent to boarding school in England. He was a bright student and went on to study at Oxford University, where he became a professor of English literature.
Although Lewis had been raised in a Christian home, he became an atheist in his teenage years. He was deeply influenced by the writings of philosopher Bertrand Russell, who argued that there was no evidence for the existence of God. Lewis was also skeptical of the claims of Christianity, which he saw as a collection of myths and superstitions.
The Journey to Faith
Despite his atheism, Lewis found himself drawn to the idea of something beyond the material world. He was deeply moved by the beauty of nature and the power of human relationships. He began to read widely, exploring philosophy, mythology, and literature. He also became friends with a group of Christian writers known as the Inklings, including J.R.R. Tolkien and Charles Williams.
Over time, Lewis began to see that his atheism was not a satisfying worldview. He realized that there was a longing within him for something more than what he could see and touch. He began to explore the claims of Christianity, reading the Bible and attending church services. He also began to pray, asking God to reveal Himself to him.
Eventually, Lewis came to the realization that God was real and that Jesus Christ was the Son of God. He was overwhelmed by a sense of joy and peace that he had never experienced before. He described this experience in "Surprised by Joy," writing:
"I gave in, and admitted that God was God, and knelt and prayed: perhaps, that night, the most dejected and reluctant convert in all England. I did not then see what is now the most shining and obvious thing; the Divine humility which will accept a convert even on such terms. The Prodigal Son at least walked home on his own feet. But who can duly adore that Love which will open the high gates to a prodigal who is brought in kicking, struggling, resentful, and darting his eyes in every direction for a chance of escape?"
Legacy
The most reluctant convert quote has become a powerful symbol of Lewis's journey to faith. It is often used to inspire others who are struggling with doubts or who are resistant to the idea of God. The quote has been referenced in numerous books, sermons, and articles, and has even been the subject of a play.
Overall, the most reluctant convert quote is a testament to the power of God's love and grace to transform even the most resistant heart. It reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God's mercy and that we should never give up hope that our loved ones will come to faith.
Conclusion
C.S. Lewis's journey from atheism to Christianity is a powerful testimony to the reality of God's love and grace. The most reluctant convert quote captures the essence of Lewis's struggle to come to faith and has become a symbol of hope for Christians and non-Christians alike. May we all be inspired by Lewis's example and never give up on our own journey to discover the truth about God.
