Skip to content

When a man really gives up trying to make something out of…

“When a man really gives up trying to make something out of himself—a saint, or a converted sinner, or a churchman (a so-called clerical somebody), a righteous or unrighteous man,… when in the fullness of tasks, questions, success or ill-hap, experiences and perplexities, a man throws himself into…” quote by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Download Open image
““When a man really gives up trying to make something out of himself—a saint, or a converted sinner, or a churchman (a so-called clerical somebody), a righteous or unrighteous man,… when in the fullness of tasks, questions, success or ill-hap, experiences and perplexities, a man throws himself into the arms of God… then he wakes with Christ in Gethsemane. That is faith, that is metanoia and it is thus that he becomes a man and Christian.””

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

True faith emerges when one surrenders personal ambition, embraces humility, and seeks Christ, leading to transformation.

In simple terms: Surrendering ego brings genuine faith.

Key Takeaway

Let go of self‑importance and trust God.

Themes

faith humility transformation

Mood

contemplative serene

Type

theological inspirational

When to use this quote

  • times crises
  • personal failure
  • spiritual doubt
  • seeking purpose
  • prayer

Key Concepts

Christian theology metanoia

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does surrender look like for you?
  • How does humility change your relationship with God?
A Different Perspective

Faith may be challenged by doubt and external pressures.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Explore all 711 Dietrich Bonhoeffer quotes

More Christian quotes

Browse all 14,306 Christian quotes