Dear Editor,
David Robertson (en March) poses the very relevant question of why many Christians today are so concerned about being ‘nice’. Robertson Biblically demonstrates the case, at appropriate times, for preaching the gospel extremely vigorously. It is also obvious there would be no Christianity today without Christ’s unwavering mission stance and likewise that of His steadfast followers down the succeeding ages, whether Catholics or Protestants.
Surprisingly, the article makes no mention of C.S. Lewis’ chapter in Mere Christianity, entitled ‘Nice People or New Men’. Lewis here makes the crucial point that Christ enjoins us to be ‘perfect’ in terms of being a Spirit-based ‘new creation’, incorporated into His transforming eternal life.
This is categorically different from being a mere well-behaved ‘nice’ person. The latter may be okay as far as it goes, possibly only due to a good digestive system, as Lewis wryly suggests. However, being ‘nice’ does not necessarily equate to salvation or Christ-transformation. Nor does it constitute the narrow, difficult pathway/gate to God’s Kingdom. (cf. Matt.7:,13-14).
Yours sincerely,
Mr M.H. Davis Oswestry, Shropshire
