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.

In this quote, C.S. Lewis highlights the connection between faith and the effectiveness of Christians in making a positive impact on the world. Lewis suggests that throughout history, those Christians who focused most on the next world, or the afterlife, were often the ones who made the greatest contributions to improving the present world. By emphasizing spiritual matters and the eternal, they were motivated to work selflessly and bring about meaningful change in society. According to Lewis, their eternal perspective fueled their sense of responsibility and commitment to the well-being of others.

Lewis contrasts this with his observation that in modern times, many Christians have become ineffective in their efforts to make a difference because they no longer prioritize the next world. As a result, they may lose sight of the deeper moral and spiritual values that can inspire transformative actions in the present. By focusing too much on material concerns and the immediate, Lewis argues, Christians have strayed from the driving force that once motivated them to serve others and shape a better world.

The origin of this quote comes from Lewis's writings, particularly his works on Christian philosophy and theology. As a writer and a Christian apologist, Lewis often explored the tension between faith and modernity, critiquing how contemporary Christianity had shifted its focus away from spiritual truths. His reflections on the importance of an eternal perspective are grounded in his belief that a strong, unwavering belief in the afterlife can serve as a powerful motivator for action in this world.

Ultimately, Lewis’s quote serves as a reminder of the power of having a long-term, spiritual perspective on life. He suggests that by focusing on eternal matters, individuals can find greater purpose and drive to make a positive difference in the present world. For Lewis, the Christian commitment to the next world should not lead to neglect of the present but should instead inspire a more profound dedication to justice, compassion, and service in the here and now.