To obtain salvation we must tremble at the thought of…
“To obtain salvation we must tremble at the thought of being lost, and tremble not so much at the thought of hell, as of sin, which alone can send us thither. He who dreads sin avoids dangerous occasions, frequently recommends himself to God, and has recourse to the means of keeping himself in the state of grace. He who acts thus will be saved; but for him who lives not in this manner it is morally impossible to be saved.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Salvation depends on fearing sin more than hell; avoiding sin by seeking God's help and living virtuously.
In simple terms: Fear sin, seek grace, live virtuously.
Cultivate reverence for sin and seek divine aid.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal repentance
- spiritual counseling
- confessional practice
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does fear of sin shape moral choices?
- What practices help maintain a state of grace?
Human frailty can make constant vigilance impractical.