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Freedom Quote by Dietrich Bonhoeffer

“Grace interpreted as a principle, pecca fortiter as a principle, grace at a low cost, is in the last resort simply a new law, which brings neither help nor freedom. Grace as a living word, pecca fortiter as our comfort in tribulation and as a summons to discipleship, costly grace is the only pure…” quote by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
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““Grace interpreted as a principle, pecca fortiter as a principle, grace at a low cost, is in the last resort simply a new law, which brings neither help nor freedom. Grace as a living word, pecca fortiter as our comfort in tribulation and as a summons to discipleship, costly grace is the only pure grace, which really forgives sins and gives freedom to the sinner.””

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

About This Quote

Source Book: Ethics, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, 1949

Grace is presented as a costly, liberating principle that forgives sins and offers true freedom, contrasting with cheap, ineffective notions.

In simple terms: Grace is costly but truly frees and forgives.

Key Takeaway

Seek deep, authentic grace over superficial comfort.

Themes

theology grace freedom

Mood

contemplative serious inspirational

Type

theological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • church life
  • personal repentance
  • ethical decision‑making
  • counseling

Key Concepts

redemption sacrificial love spiritual authenticity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does accepting costly grace change your view of forgiveness?
  • What does “pure grace” mean in daily life?
A Different Perspective

Costly grace may demand difficult sacrifices and self‑examination.

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