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Christian Quote by Henry Ward Beecher

“I have known men who thought the object of conversion was to cleanse them as a garment is cleansed, and that when they are converted they were to be hung up in the Lord's wardrobe, the door of which was to be shut, so that no dust could get at them. A coat that is not used the moths eat; and a…” quote by Henry Ward Beecher
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“I have known men who thought the object of conversion was to cleanse them as a garment is cleansed, and that when they are converted they were to be hung up in the Lord's wardrobe, the door of which was to be shut, so that no dust could get at them. A coat that is not used the moths eat; and a Christian who is hung up so that he shall not be tempted, the moths eat him; and they have poor food at that.”

Henry Ward Beecher

About This Quote

Source Sermon: "The Christian's Wardrobe" by Henry Ward Beecher, 1865

Beecher satirically warns against overly rigid religious practices that isolate believers, likening them to unused clothes that attract moths.

In simple terms: Avoid rigid faith that isolates you.

Key Takeaway

Balance devotion with engagement.

Themes

faith religion community humor

Mood

thoughtful humorous critical

Type

theological satirical reflective

When to use this quote

  • church life
  • personal spirituality
  • religious critique
  • social reform

Key Concepts

satire theology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What practices keep faith alive and active?
  • How can communities avoid becoming stagnant?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on isolation can lead to neglect of active faith.

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