And here, right at the start, one encounters a new…
““And here, right at the start, one encounters a new difficulty. For the task of reestablishing the notion of God's authority is obstructed not only by the depreciation of authority itself, but also by a false, pre-established picture of God- found even within the church. Certainly, the church has preserved the concept of a loving God, a merciful God, a compassionate God. But have Christians generally themselves any vivid sense of God's power and dominion? Do we, when we worship God, or when we reflect on His nature, catch a clear echo of His resounding and indomitable majesty?... It cannot be denied that this is the God we are supposed to worship- not just a companionable God who is to be sidled up to and nestled against, but and awesome God before whom the worshipper prostrates himself, a wrathful God whose raised right arm can shake the universe.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote argues that modern Christianity has lost a vivid sense of God's overwhelming power, focusing instead on a gentle, approachable image, which hinders true worship of God's majesty.
In simple terms: Church often sees God as gentle, not powerful.
Key Takeaway
Remember God's full nature in worship.
Themes
theity
image
worship
power
majestic
Mood
reflective
reverent
Type
theological
inspirational
When to use this quote
- church sermons
- personal prayer
- theological study
- religious education
Key Concepts
theology
iconography
spiritual perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How can worship balance compassion and awe?
- What practices restore a sense of divine power?
A Different Perspective
Emphasizing only gentleness may dilute reverence for divine authority.