Capture Quote by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
“Human love is directed to the other person for his own sake, spiritual love loves him for Christ's sake. Therefore, human love seeks direct contact with the other person; it loves him not as a free person but as one whom it binds to itself. It wants to gain, to capture by every means; it uses force. It desires to be irresistible, to rule.”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: The Cost of Discipleship, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, 1937
Human love seeks personal gain and control, while spiritual love selflessly honors Christ, avoiding domination.
In simple terms: Human love wants control; spiritual love honors Christ.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize selfless love over possessive desire.
Themes
love
spirituality
control
selflessness
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
theological
inspirational
When to use this quote
- marriage
- friendship
- leadership
- mentoring
- community building
Key Concepts
theology
ethics
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you practice love without seeking control?
- What does selfless love look like in daily life?
A Different Perspective
Spiritual love may be idealistic and hard to practice in flawed relationships.
