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“If a man teach uprightly and walk crookedly, more will fall down in the night of his life than he built in the day of his doctrine.” quote by John Owen
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“If a man teach uprightly and walk crookedly, more will fall down in the night of his life than he built in the day of his doctrine.”

John Owen

About This Quote

Source Sermon: The Doctrine of the Christian Life, 1650

Living inconsistently—teaching moral standards while acting contrary—leads to greater personal ruin than any good one accomplishes.

In simple terms: Hypocrisy harms more than it helps.

Key Takeaway

Align actions with teachings.

Themes

integrity hypocrisy consequences

Mood

reflective serious

Type

ethical advisory

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • parenting
  • public speaking
  • personal development

Key Concepts

Christian ethics moral dissonance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you ensure your behavior reflects your values?
  • What habits reveal hidden inconsistencies?
A Different Perspective

Even sincere teachings can be undermined by personal failings.

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