Freedom Quote by John Stott
““We have rejected the position of dependence which our createdness inevitably involves, and made a bid for independence. Worse still, we have dared to proclaim our self-dependence, our autonomy, which is to claim the position occupied by God alone.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Christian Ethics, 1975
Human independence contradicts our created nature, which inherently depends on God; claiming autonomy replaces God’s role.
In simple terms: Independence opposes our dependence on God.
Key Takeaway
Recognize our need for God.
Themes
dependence
autonomy
theology
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
theological
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal decision‑making
- leadership
- ethical dilemmas
- spiritual formation
Key Concepts
Divine dependence
humility
Questions to Reflect On
- What areas of life tempt you to claim self‑dependence?
- How can you honor God while exercising responsibility?
A Different Perspective
May discourage healthy self‑reliance.
![“Whom can you consider as God? It is he who has become completely independent in this world and he does not have anyone above [superior] him, he is God. When one cannot even see his dependency, how can he realize his own independence?” quote by Dada Bhagwan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9ab/dada-bhagwan-31_god_whom-can-you-consider-as-god-it-is-he-wh_1870184.jpg)
![“[Christian rebellion] arises from the doctrine of mankind made in the image of God, and therefore protests against all forms of dehumanization. It sets itself against the social injustices which insult God the Creator, seeks to protect human beings from oppression and longs to liberate them… it…” quote by John Stott](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/328/john-stott-1926_arise_christian-rebellion-arises-from-the-doct_31161.jpg)
