Quotes With Meaning
God is angry with man. Unless we believe and repent we shall all be damned. It is impossible, indeed, for its advocates even to say this without instantly contradicting themselves. Their doctrine frightens them. They explain in various ways that a great many people will be saved without believing, and that eternal damnation is not eternal nor damnation.
God is angry with man. Unless we believe and repent we shall all be damned. It is impossible, indeed, for its advocates even to say this without instantly contradicting themselves. Their doctrine frightens them. They explain in various ways that a great many people will be saved without believing, and that eternal damnation is not eternal nor damnation.
This quote addresses the tension between the belief in divine anger and the notion of salvation. Leslie Stephen points out that religious doctrines often claim many people can be saved without true belief, which creates contradictions. He emphasizes that the fear of eternal damnation can lead to flexible interpretations of what it means to believe. The idea that some will escape punishment while others face dire consequences reflects a struggle with the nature of faith and morality. This highlights how individuals grapple with their beliefs and the implications for their lives. Ultimately, Stephen suggests that a clear understanding of these concepts is essential for genuine growth in faith and personal freedom.