“If you read history you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were precisely those who thought most of the next. It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective in this.”
Image credits：Aronsyne,”Lewis, age 48″,CC BY-SA 4.0,C.S.-Lewis – C. S. Lewis – Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
- November 29, 1898 – November 22, 1963
- Born in Ireland
- Writer, scholar
- Had a major influence on fantasy literature and religious thought through his many works, including the Chronicles of Narnia series and The Poetics of Christianity
Quote
“If you read history you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were precisely those who thought most of the next. It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective in this.”
Explanation
In this quote, C. S. Lewis highlights a paradox in the relationship between faith and worldly action. He suggests that the Christians who have had the greatest impact on society and history were those who focused on the “next world”—the eternal and spiritual life that Christian teachings promise. Lewis argues that an emphasis on the afterlife does not diminish one’s ability to contribute to the present world. On the contrary, it enables Christians to live with a sense of purpose, justice, and moral responsibility, motivating them to act with compassion and integrity. The quote implies that when Christians shift their focus solely to the concerns of the present world, they lose sight of the higher ideals that could inspire them to make a meaningful difference.
Historically, many of the most significant social and humanitarian movements were inspired by Christian values that emphasized the dignity of the individual, the importance of charity, and the pursuit of justice. Figures like William Wilberforce, who campaigned to abolish slavery in the British Empire, or Mother Teresa, who dedicated her life to helping the poor, were deeply committed to the idea of an eternal world, which motivated them to work for profound change in the here and now. Lewis’s statement reflects his belief that an enduring spiritual vision often leads to a more compassionate and transformative approach to human suffering.
In the modern context, this quote can be seen as a challenge to Christians—and people of faith in general—who may become overwhelmed by the material demands of contemporary life. Lewis’s message suggests that those who focus on transcendent values, like justice, love, and mercy, are better equipped to engage meaningfully with the world’s problems. When we prioritize the eternal over the temporary, we gain a sense of perspective and purpose that drives us to act for the greater good. This timeless insight invites us to re-evaluate how we balance earthly concerns with a deeper spiritual commitment to justice and human dignity.
