Blind man Quote by Alister E. McGrath
““The author compares the struggles of Martin Luther with the prevailing doctrine that a little genuine effort on our part results in a disproportionate reward of God's righteousness with a blind man who would be given $1 million – if only he could see.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Christian Faith: A Systematic Theology by Alister E. McGrath, 1994
Comparing Luther's struggle to a blind man's hypothetical million-dollar reward illustrates how minimal effort is mistakenly believed to yield massive divine favor.
In simple terms: Small effort is thought to bring huge spiritual reward.
Recognize that true spiritual growth requires sustained effort.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal prayer
- church service
- ethical decision making
- community outreach
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does effort relate to divine grace?
- What realistic steps foster authentic faith?
The analogy oversimplifies complex theological concepts.