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Awake Quote by Charles Grandison Finney

“When sinners are careless and stupid, and sinking into hell unconcerned, it is time the church should bestir themselves. It is as much the duty of the church to awake, as it is for the firemen to awake when a fire breaks out in the night in a great city.” quote by Charles Grandison Finney
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“When sinners are careless and stupid, and sinking into hell unconcerned, it is time the church should bestir themselves. It is as much the duty of the church to awake, as it is for the firemen to awake when a fire breaks out in the night in a great city.”

Charles Grandison Finney

About This Quote

Source Sermon: Revivalist preaching, 19th century America

Neglecting moral duty leads to societal decay; institutions must act decisively to prevent disaster.

In simple terms: Ignore sin, face ruin; act now.

Key Takeaway

Address moral crises promptly.

Themes

morality responsibility social duty

Mood

urgent reflective

Type

religious motivational

When to use this quote

  • church leadership
  • community outreach
  • policy reform
  • emergency response

Key Concepts

theology public ethics collective action

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can institutions balance urgency with compassion?
  • What signs indicate a moral crisis?
A Different Perspective

Action may be limited by institutional inertia or resistance.

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