As long as a man is persuaded that he can make even the…
“As long as a man is persuaded that he can make even the smallest contribution to his salvation, he remains self-confident and does not utterly despair of himself, and so is not humbled before God. Such a man plans out for himself a position, an occasion, a work, which shall bring him final salvation, but which will not.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Believing one can contribute to salvation sustains confidence and hope, preventing despair and excessive humility before God.
In simple terms: Hope in personal effort prevents despair.
Key Takeaway
Maintain confidence in your spiritual role.
Themes
faith
self‑confidence
hope
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
theological
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal prayer
- community service
- ethical decisions
- life planning
Key Concepts
salvation
personal agency
spiritual humility
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance personal effort with reliance on divine aid?
- What actions reflect your hope for salvation?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on self‑effort may neglect divine grace.