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From C.S. Lewis' "Mere Christianity".
In this excerpt, C.S. Lewis critiques both atheism and a simplistic form of Christianity he calls "Christianity-and-water." He argues that atheism and overly simplistic religious views fail to grapple with the complex realities of life. Real things, he asserts, are inherently complex and often counterintuitive. Christianity, he believes, acknowledges this complexity by addressing the existence of evil, sin, and the need for redemption.
Lewis explains that reality often defies our expectations, which is why simplistic views of God and religion are inadequate. He critiques Dualism, the belief in two equal and opposing forces of good and evil, pointing out that evil is not an independent power but a perversion of good. Christianity, he argues, is closer to the truth because it recognizes that evil is a rebellion against the good created by God.
He describes Christianity as a "fighting religion" that sees the world as enemy-occupied territory. According to Lewis, the world is under the influence of a dark power, but this power is not equal to God. Instead, it is a fallen angel in rebellion against God. Christianity, therefore, is the story of how God, the rightful king, has landed in disguise and is calling people to join in a campaign of spiritual resistance and restoration.