But, for a Christian, there are, strictly speaking, no…
““But, for a Christian, there are, strictly speaking, no chances. A secret Master of the Ceremonies has been at work. Christ, who said to the disciples "Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you," can truly say to every group of Christian friends "You have not chosen one another but I have chosen you for one another." The Friendship is not a reward for our discrimination and good taste in finding one another out. It is the instrument by which God reveals to each the beauties of all the others. They are no greater than the beauties of a thousand other men; by Friendship God opens our eyes to them. They are, like all beauties, derived from Him through the Friendship itself, so that it is His instrument for creating as well as for revealing. At this feast it is He who has spread the board and it is He who has chosen the guests. It is He, we may dare to hope, who sometimes does, and always should, preside. Let us not reckon without our Host.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Friendship is divinely orchestrated, a mutual selection that reveals each other's beauty and serves God's purpose.
In simple terms: Friendship is a God‑chosen bond that shows us each other's worth.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and cherish friendships as spiritual gifts.
Themes
faith
friendship
divine purpose
community
spirituality
Mood
contemplative
inspirational
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- church groups
- study circles
- personal relationships
- spiritual communities
Key Concepts
theology
human relationships
mutual selection
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this view influence your friendships?
- What responsibilities arise from seeing friendship as divine?
A Different Perspective
Interpretation may vary across denominations.