Obedience Quote by Archibald Alexander Hodge
““The Romish Church teaches the ordinary Arminian theory of perfectionism. In addition to this error, they teach, (a.) that good works subsequent to baptism merit increase of grace and eternal felicity (Council of Trent, sess vi., ch xvi., can. 24, 32); and (b.) they distinguish between the commands and the counsels of Christ. The former are binding upon all classes of the people, and their observance necessary in order to salvation. The latter, consisting of advice, not of commands — such as celibacy, voluntary poverty, obedience to monastic rule, etc. — are binding only on those who voluntarily assume them, seeking a higher degree of perfection and a more exalted reward. We have already, under chapter xiii., seen that a state of sinless perfection is never attained by Christians in this life; and it, of course, follows that much less is it possible for any to do more than is commanded.””
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Christian Theology, 19th century, Hodge's Systematic Theology
The quote argues that the Catholic Church’s teachings on works, grace, and optional ascetic practices are erroneous, asserting that sinless perfection is unattainable in this life and that only commanded duties are required for salvation.
In simple terms: Catholic teachings on works and asceticism are seen as flawed; only essential commands matter.
Key Takeaway
Focus on essential commandments, not optional perfection.
Themes
theology
church doctrine
perfectionism
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- Pastoral counseling
- personal spiritual practice
- religious education
- ethical decision making
Key Concepts
Grace
sin
asceticism
salvation
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you distinguish between essential duties and optional spiritual practices?
- How do you evaluate the role of works in your faith?
A Different Perspective
The claim may overlook the motivational value of voluntary disciplines for personal growth.
![“In 1914... [German] history, poetry, dream and the individual moment were all combined in one exhilarating sensation...The nation was a creation of one's imagination, a poetic truth, an ethical, not a social, construct... blind obedience was the true value... the stronger a person is... the more…” quote by The Rites of Spring Modris Eksteins](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9a2/the-rites-of-spring-modris-eks_blind-obedience_in-1914-german-history-poetry-dream-and_16799.jpg)
