Believe Quote by Charles Hodge
“No more soul-destroying doctrine could well be devised than the doctrine that sinners can regenerate themselves, and repent and believe just when they please...As it is a truth both of Scripture and of experience that the unrenewed man can do nothing of himself to secure his salvation, it is essential that he should be brought to practical conviction of that truth. When thus convinced, and not before, he seeks help from the only source whence it can be obtained.”
About This Quote
Source Theology: Treatise on Doctrine, 19th century
Human effort alone cannot achieve salvation; true renewal requires divine conviction and reliance on God’s source of grace
In simple terms: Salvation needs God’s help, not just personal effort
Key Takeaway
Rely on divine guidance for spiritual renewal
Themes
theology
salvation
human limitation
faith
doctrine
Mood
solemn
instructive
Type
theological
expository
When to use this quote
- personal moral striving
- religious instruction
- church counseling
Key Concepts
spiritual discipline
prayer
community support
Questions to Reflect On
- What does genuine conviction look like in daily life?
- How can one balance personal effort with divine reliance?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on external authority may diminish personal responsibility
