Bultmann compellingly suggests to his readers in 1941 that…
““Bultmann compellingly suggests to his readers in 1941 that precisely therein does the state as embodied by Pilate still distinguish itself from the German state of the present day. For since it no longer preserves even the appearance of law, the National Socialist state can in no way claim itself to be what the New Testament intends by that term. This perverted state is nothing but a manifestation of the cosmos at enmity with God. It is institutionalized evil.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The state that lacks law is a perverted, evil entity opposed to divine order.
In simple terms: A lawless state is evil and anti‑God.
Key Takeaway
Guard against lawless authority.
Themes
politics
theology
evil
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- government policy
- legal reform
- ethical debates
Key Concepts
state legitimacy
divine order
totalitarianism
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines a just state?
- How does law protect morality?
A Different Perspective
Complex theological language may limit accessibility.