Change Quote by Jacques Ellul
“Christians have always tended to transform the Christian Revelation into a Christian religion. Christianity is said to be a religion like any other or, conversely, some Christians try to show that it is a better religion than the others. People attempt to take possession of God. Theology claims to explain everything, including the being of God. People tend to transform Christianity into a religion because the Christian faith obviously places people in an extremely uncomfortable position that of freedom guided only by love and all in the context of God's radical demand that we be holy.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Political Myth, Jacques Ellul, 1965
The quote critiques how Christianity often becomes a self‑preserving institution, turning divine revelation into a doctrine that comforts believers and claims superiority, while the true Christian call to radical love and holiness is uncomfortable.
In simple terms: Christianity can become a self‑protecting system rather than a demanding love.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and resist institutional comforts that dilute the radical call of faith.
Themes
religion
institution
freedom
love
holiness
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
theological
sociological
When to use this quote
- church leadership
- personal faith practice
- interfaith dialogue
- ethical decision making
Key Concepts
theology
political myth
institutional critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How does institutional religion hinder or help authentic love?
- What does true holiness look like in daily life?
A Different Perspective
The critique may overlook genuine spiritual experiences that thrive within organized religion.
![“I knew very little about the religion. [Christianity] It had a reputation for few gods and great violence. But good schools.” quote by Yann Martel](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/920/yann-martel-395_christianity_i-knew-very-little-about-the-religion-ch_742064.jpg)
![“'I know of no other religion (Christianity) on earth where'... there is a God who even has love for the individual (A former Hindu)." ~R. Alan Woods [2013] "I know of no other religion (Christianity) on earth where God has such an intense love for the individual." ~A former Hindu” quote by R. Alan Woods](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2f4/r-alan-woods-1455_agape-love_i-know-of-no-other-religion-christianity_2203686.jpg)
