Church Quote by John Shelton Reed
“There's an ethic that says: 'You don't run off to the church for the sacraments of salvation, you establish a personal relationship with God. You don't run off to the courts for justice, you settle it yourself. You don't run off to labor unions to sort out your work relations, you can take this job and shove it if you don't like what you're doing.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview on personal autonomy, 1990s
The quote argues that individuals should seek direct, personal engagement with institutions rather than relying on intermediaries for salvation, justice, or labor relations.
In simple terms: Seek direct relationships instead of intermediaries.
Key Takeaway
Take responsibility for your own spiritual, legal, and work matters.
Themes
autonomy
personal responsibility
institutional critique
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- seeking spiritual guidance
- handling legal disputes
- changing jobs
- negotiating workplace issues
Key Concepts
individualism
self-reliance
direct action
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you rely on institutions for personal needs?
- When is it appropriate to seek collective help?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook the benefits of collective action and legal protections.
![“T]he church is not a place. It's not a building. It's not a preaching point. It's not a spiritual service provider. It's a people - the new covenant, blood-bought people of God. That's why Paul said, 'Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her' (Eph. 5:25). He didn't give himself up for a…” quote by Mark Dever](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/7a4/mark-dever-3175_blood_t-he-church-is-not-a-place-it-s-not-a-bu_3297.jpg)
