Communion Quote by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
““The desire we so often hear expressed today for “episcopal figures,” “priestly men,” “authoritative personalities” springs frequently enough from a spiritually sick need for the admiration of men, for the establishment of visible human authority, because the genuine authority of service appears to be so unimpressive.””
About This Quote
Source The Cost of Discipleship, 1937
People seek visible authority out of spiritual emptiness, but true authority lies in humble service, which often appears unremarkable.
In simple terms: People crave visible authority but true power is humble service.
Key Takeaway
Value service over status.
Themes
spirituality
authority
service
Mood
contemplative
serious
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- church leadership
- political activism
- personal growth
Key Concepts
theology
psychology of leadership
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we admire authority figures?
- How can humble service be made more visible?
A Different Perspective
May underestimate the appeal of visible authority.
