Bible Quote by Benjamin Franklin
““but his discourses were chiefly either polemic arguments, or explications of the peculiar doctrines of our sect, and were all to me very dry, uninteresting, and unedifying, since not a single moral principle was inculcated or enforc'd, their aim seeming to be rather to make us Presbyterians than good citizens. At length he took for his text that verse of the fourth chapter of Philippians, "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, or of good report, if there be any virtue, or any praise, think on these things." And I imagin'd, in a sermon on such a text, we could not miss of having some morality. But he confin'd himself to five points only, as meant by the apostle, viz.: 1. Keeping holy the Sabbath day. 2. Being diligent in reading the holy Scriptures. 3. Attending duly the publick worship. 4. Partaking of the Sacrament. 5. Paying a due respect to God's ministers. These might be all good things; but, as they were not the kind of good things that I expected from that text, I despaired of ever meeting with them from any other, was disgusted, and attended his preaching no more.””
About This Quote
Source Letter: to a friend, 1768 (published in Poor Richard's Almanack)
The speaker criticizes a sermon that focuses on ritual and superficial virtues without imparting deeper moral principles, leaving the audience uninspired.
In simple terms: Rituals without moral depth are empty.
Key Takeaway
Seek substance over form in teachings.
Themes
religion
education
morality
critique
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
historical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- church services
- religious education
- public speaking
- personal development
Key Concepts
ethical instruction
spiritual authenticity
Questions to Reflect On
- What core values should accompany religious practice?
- How can leaders make teachings both engaging and moral?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on external observance can neglect inner growth.
