Skip to content

Children Quote by J. Gresham Machen

“That view of the Cross, it cannot be denied, runs counter to the mind of the natural man. It is not, indeed, complicated or obscure; on the contrary it is so simple that a child can understand, and what is really obscure is the manifold modern effort to explain the Cross away in such fashion as to…” quote by J. Gresham Machen
Download Open image
““That view of the Cross, it cannot be denied, runs counter to the mind of the natural man. It is not, indeed, complicated or obscure; on the contrary it is so simple that a child can understand, and what is really obscure is the manifold modern effort to explain the Cross away in such fashion as to make it more agreeable to human pride.””

J. Gresham Machen

About This Quote

The crucifixion is a simple, undeniable truth that conflicts with human self‑importance; attempts to rationalize it mask its profound significance.

In simple terms: The Cross is simple yet clashes with pride.

Key Takeaway

Pride obscures the Cross.

Themes

theology humility faith interpretation spiritual truth

Mood

reflective challenging

Type

theological didactic

When to use this quote

  • personal doubt
  • academic theology
  • church preaching
  • cultural criticism

Key Concepts

Christ's sacrifice human pride simplicity vs. complexity

Practical Applications

  • teaching core Christian doctrine
  • countering rationalistic apologetics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does pride shape our understanding of divine events?
  • What does it mean to accept a truth that feels too simple?
3.5 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by J. Gresham Machen

Explore all 28 J. Gresham Machen quotes

More Children quotes

Browse all 62,417 Children quotes