Condemnation Quote by John Calvin
““Because it might seem absurd that the Gentiles perish without any preceding judgment, Paul immediately adds that for them conscience stands in place of law; this is sufficient reason for their just condemnation. The purpose of natural law, therefore, is to render man inexcusable. This””
About This Quote
Source Treat: Institutes of the Christian Religion, 1536
Natural law serves as a conscience substitute for Gentiles, making them accountable without formal law, implying inherent moral responsibility.
In simple terms: Conscience replaces law for moral judgment.
Key Takeaway
Recognize inner moral guide.
Themes
theoral responsibility
theology
law
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- ethical decision making
- religious education
- personal accountability
Key Concepts
natural law
conscience
justification
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we discern conscience from cultural bias?
- Can moral accountability exist without formal law?
A Different Perspective
Assumes universal acceptance of natural law, which may not hold across cultures.
