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Christian Quote by George MacDonald

“A man may sink by such slow degrees that, long after he is a devil, he may go on being a good churchman or a good dissenter and thinking himself a good Christian.” quote by George MacDonald
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“A man may sink by such slow degrees that, long after he is a devil, he may go on being a good churchman or a good dissenter and thinking himself a good Christian.”

George MacDonald

About This Quote

Source Book: Phantastes, 1858

A person can gradually become evil yet still consider themselves virtuous, maintaining a respectable façade.

In simple terms: Slow moral decline can hide behind a good image.

Key Takeaway

Monitor inner motives, not just outward actions.

Themes

morality hypocrisy selfdeception religion gradualism

Mood

cautionary introspective

Type

philosophical religious

When to use this quote

  • personal development
  • leadership training
  • spiritual counseling
  • ethical audits

Key Concepts

Ethical philosophy psychology of self religious critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • What signs reveal hidden moral decay?
  • Can outward goodness mask inner corruption?
A Different Perspective

The quote may ignore capacity for genuine change.

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