Christianity Quote by J. Gresham Machen
![“Christianity cannot subsist unless men know what Christianity is; and the fair and logical thing is to learn what Christianity is, not from its opponents, but from those who themselves are Christians. That method of procedure would be the only fair method in the case of any movement. [...] Men…” quote by J. Gresham Machen](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/230/j-gresham-machen-22117_christianity_christianity-cannot-subsist-unless-men-k_1479917.jpg)
““Christianity cannot subsist unless men know what Christianity is; and the fair and logical thing is to learn what Christianity is, not from its opponents, but from those who themselves are Christians. That method of procedure would be the only fair method in the case of any movement. [...] Men have abundant opportunity today to learn what can be said against Christianity, and it is only fair that they should also learn something about the thing that is being attacked.””
About This Quote
Source Book: 'Christianity and Liberalism', 1923
Understanding a belief from its own adherents is fairer than learning solely from critics.
In simple terms: Learn from insiders, not just opponents.
Key Takeaway
Seek authentic perspectives.
Themes
faith
fairness
dialogue
Mood
thoughtful
respectful
Type
theoretical
educational
When to use this quote
- religious education
- interfaith discussions
- personal study
Key Concepts
theology
epistemology
fairness
Questions to Reflect On
- What benefits arise from learning a faith from its practitioners?
- How can critics ensure balanced understanding?
![“Toward the end of his life, [Arnold] Toynby said the Christianity he saw developing was brittle, imperialistic and incapable of reforming itself.” quote by John Shelby Spong](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/fd3/john-shelby-spong-1488_christianity_toward-the-end-of-his-life-arnold-toynby_1347062.jpg)
