Christianity Quote by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
““It may be that Christians, notwithstanding corporate worship, common prayer, and all their fellowship in service, may still be left to their loneliness. The final break-through to fellowship does not occur, because, though they have fellowship with one another as believers and as devout people, they do not have fellowship as the undevout, as sinners. The pious fellowship permits no one to be a sinner. So everybody must conceal his sin from himself and from the fellowship. We dare not be sinners. Many Christians are unthinkably horrified when a real sinner is suddenly discovered among the righteous. So we remain alone with our sin, living in lies and hypocrisy. The fact is that we are sinners!””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Cost of Discipleship, 1937
Christians often hide personal sin, creating superficial fellowship that lacks true honesty.
In simple terms: Hidden sins prevent genuine community.
Key Takeaway
Foster authentic, non‑judgmental sharing.
Themes
faith
community
hypocrisy
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
theological
inspirational
When to use this quote
- church groups
- small study circles
- personal counseling
Key Concepts
theology
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance truth and grace?
- What structures support safe confession?
A Different Perspective
Complete honesty can be uncomfortable and risky.
