Confession Quote by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
““The dividing line will run right through the confessing Church. Even if we make the confession of faith, it gives us no title to any special claim upon Jesus. We can never appeal to our confession or be saved simply on the ground that we have made it...The man who says "Lord, Lord" has either called himself to Jesus without the Holy Spirit, or else he has made out of the call of Jesus a personal privilege.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer, 1937
True faith requires inner transformation, not merely verbal profession; genuine discipleship depends on the Holy Spirit’s work, not on self‑granted titles.
In simple terms: Faith is more than words; it needs the Spirit.
Key Takeaway
Seek authentic relationship, not empty claims.
Themes
faith
authenticity
spirituality
humility
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
theological
inspirational
When to use this quote
- church leadership
- personal prayer
- community worship
- spiritual counseling
Key Concepts
theology
spiritual formation
inner transformation
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you rely on words or on the Spirit?
- How does humility shape your faith?
A Different Perspective
Human effort alone cannot guarantee salvation; dependence on the Spirit is essential.
