Skip to content

We've created a theology in the West of a God who is…

“We've created a theology in the West of a God who is fundamentally self-centered. The imagery of God as distant, unapproachable, unreachable -- that's not a God who is relational. It is a God that gets to declare or judge when he gets pissed off. But there is no basis for love and relationships if…” quote by William P. Young
Download Open image
“We've created a theology in the West of a God who is fundamentally self-centered. The imagery of God as distant, unapproachable, unreachable -- that's not a God who is relational. It is a God that gets to declare or judge when he gets pissed off. But there is no basis for love and relationships if God is a fundamentally self-centered being.”

William P. Young

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 portraying God as distant and self‑interested undermines the idea of a loving, relational deity.

In simple terms: A self‑centered God cannot be loving or relational.

Key Takeaway

Rethink how you view divine character.

Themes

theology relationship divine nature human perception

Mood

contemplative critical hopeful

Type

theological philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • personal prayer
  • interfaith dialogue
  • church teaching
  • spiritual counseling

Key Concepts

anthropomorphism theocentrism spiritual intimacy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your image of God affect your relationships?
  • Can a deity be both transcendent and relational?
A Different Perspective

The claim may overlook traditions that emphasize God's love despite mystery.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by William P. Young

Explore all 138 William P. Young quotes

More Bases quotes

Browse all 2,701 Bases quotes