Christ Quote by Blaise Pascal
“Without the knowledge of our wretchedness, the knowledge of God creates pride. With it, the knowledge of God creates despair. The knowledge of Christ offers a third way, because in him we find both God and our wretchedness.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophical Treatise: Pensées, 1670
Knowing human wretchedness leads to pride, while divine knowledge can cause despair; Christ’s example reconciles both by revealing shared humanity and divinity.
In simple terms: Awareness of sin and God can cause pride or despair; Christ offers balance.
Key Takeaway
Seek humility through Christ’s example.
Themes
theology
human nature
pride
despair
redemption
Mood
contemplative
hopeful
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal crisis
- spiritual counseling
- ethical decision‑making
Key Concepts
sin
divine grace
Christology
Questions to Reflect On
- Can humility be achieved without religious belief?
- How does recognizing shared wretchedness affect compassion?
A Different Perspective
The view may overlook the role of personal agency.
![“T]he church is not a place. It's not a building. It's not a preaching point. It's not a spiritual service provider. It's a people - the new covenant, blood-bought people of God. That's why Paul said, 'Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her' (Eph. 5:25). He didn't give himself up for a…” quote by Mark Dever](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/7a4/mark-dever-3175_blood_t-he-church-is-not-a-place-it-s-not-a-bu_3297.jpg)
