Skip to content

We can hardly say that the Pharisees had an accurate…

“We can hardly say that the Pharisees had an accurate ‘knowledge’ of man when they pointed to the sins (the real sins) of publicans and sinners. This judgment, which separated knowledge of man from self-knowledge, was as nothing in God’s eyes. The Jew did not have a better understanding because he…” quote by G. C. Berkouwer
Download Open image
“We can hardly say that the Pharisees had an accurate ‘knowledge’ of man when they pointed to the sins (the real sins) of publicans and sinners. This judgment, which separated knowledge of man from self-knowledge, was as nothing in God’s eyes. The Jew did not have a better understanding because he was able to judge the heathen. In the sphere of abstract morality this could possibly be said, but this is not Biblical morality - O man, who judgest others!”

G. C. Berkouwer

About This Quote

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

Judging others while claiming moral superiority reveals a lack of true self‑knowledge and divine perspective.

In simple terms: Judging others shows poor self‑knowledge.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate humility and self‑reflection.

Themes

humility self‑knowledge judgment spirituality

Mood

reflective serious

Type

theological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • preaching
  • personal counseling
  • interfaith dialogue

Key Concepts

theology ethics psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does self‑knowledge affect moral authority?
  • Can true humility coexist with moral critique?
A Different Perspective

Biblical morality emphasizes love over judgment, challenging this critique.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by G. C. Berkouwer

Explore all 9 G. C. Berkouwer quotes

More Able quotes

Browse all 17,257 Able quotes