Authority Quote by John Tillotson
“Many man's scruples lie almost wholly about obedience to authority and compliance with indifferent customs, but very seldom about the dangers of disobedience and unpeaceableness and rending in pieces the Church of Christ by needless separations and endless divisions.”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: The Dangers of Blind Obedience, 1690
People focus on obeying authority and customs, neglecting the risks of disobedience that can fracture institutions like the Church.
In simple terms: Obedience hides dangers of dissent.
Key Takeaway
Balance respect with critical thinking.
Themes
authority
customs
religious division
Mood
cautionary
inspirational
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- church governance
- personal conscience
- social reform
Key Concepts
ethics
institutional critique
Questions to Reflect On
- When should you question authority?
- How can dissent be constructive?
A Different Perspective
Blind obedience can perpetuate harm.
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