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Articles Quote by David Brainerd

“As the most extravagant errors were received among the established articles of their faith, so the most infamous vices obtained in their practice, and were indulged not only with impunity, but authorized by the sanction of their laws.” quote by David Brainerd
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“As the most extravagant errors were received among the established articles of their faith, so the most infamous vices obtained in their practice, and were indulged not only with impunity, but authorized by the sanction of their laws.”

David Brainerd

About This Quote

Source Sermon: A Treatise on the Moral State of the Church, 1760

The quote warns that the gravest mistakes are often hidden within accepted doctrines, and the worst vices become tolerated when sanctioned by law.

In simple terms: Serious errors hide in accepted beliefs; bad deeds become legal.

Key Takeaway

Question authority and uphold ethical standards.

Themes

morality authority hypocrisy

Mood

critical concerned

Type

cautionary ethical

When to use this quote

  • religious reform
  • legal review
  • public policy
  • education
  • journalism

Key Concepts

theology legalism social control

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do institutions justify immoral practices?
  • What mechanisms can prevent laws from endorsing vice?
A Different Perspective

Legal sanction can normalize immoral behavior, making reform difficult.

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