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Blindness Quote by Andrew Linzey

“Familiarity with holy things can often engender blindness, and churches are, for all their merits, institutions that embody, perhaps more than most, the will to perpetuate themselves. In this process, they can easily lose sight of the purpose for which they came into being and, in so doing…” quote by Andrew Linzey
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“Familiarity with holy things can often engender blindness, and churches are, for all their merits, institutions that embody, perhaps more than most, the will to perpetuate themselves. In this process, they can easily lose sight of the purpose for which they came into being and, in so doing, frustrate the Spirit.”

Andrew Linzey

About This Quote

Source Book: Theology of the Church, Andrew Linzey, 2005

Religious institutions may prioritize self‑preservation over their original spiritual mission, leading to blindness toward purpose.

In simple terms: Churches can forget their spiritual purpose.

Key Takeaway

Stay focused on core mission over institutional growth.

Themes

institutionalism spirituality critique

Mood

critical contemplative

Type

theological social

When to use this quote

  • church leadership
  • faith community
  • policy reform
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

theology organizational behavior

Questions to Reflect On

  • What practices keep an organization true to its founding values?
  • How can believers balance tradition with reform?
A Different Perspective

Self‑preservation can conflict with authentic purpose.

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