Accepting Quote by Edward Feser
![“Preaching Christianity to skeptics without first setting out the praeambula fidei [preambles of faith], and then complaining when they don’t accept it, is like yelling in English at someone who only speaks Chinese, and then dismissing him as a fool when he doesn’t understand you. In both cases…” quote by Edward Feser](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3fc/edward-feser-41693_accepting_preaching-christianity-to-skeptics-witho_969999.jpg)
“Preaching Christianity to skeptics without first setting out the praeambula fidei [preambles of faith], and then complaining when they don’t accept it, is like yelling in English at someone who only speaks Chinese, and then dismissing him as a fool when he doesn’t understand you. In both cases, while there is certainly a fool in the picture, it isn’t the listener.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Philosophical Foundations of Religion, 2020
Attempting to persuade without first establishing shared premises leads to misunderstanding and unfair blame.
In simple terms: Explain basics before arguing.
Key Takeaway
Lay common ground first.
Themes
communication
faith
misunderstanding
Mood
frustrated
critical
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- teaching
- interfaith discussions
- public speaking
Key Concepts
epistemology
dialogue
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you identify necessary pre‑conditions for dialogue?
- What steps ensure mutual understanding?
A Different Perspective
If the audience lacks background, the message may be rejected regardless of clarity.
