Godlessness Possibility Quote by Karl Barth
““Godlessness is not… a possibility, but an ontological impossibility for man. Man is not without, but with God. This is not to say, of course, that godless men do not exist. Sin is undoubtedly committed and exists. Yet sin itself is not a possibility but an ontological impossibility for man. We are actually with Jesus, i.e., with God. this means that our being does not include but excludes sin. To be in sin, in godlessness, is a mode of being contrary to our humanity. For the man who is with Jesus… is with God. If he denies God, he denies himself… He chooses his own impossibility””
About This Quote
Human existence is fundamentally oriented toward God; sin is not an ontological option but a deviation from our true nature.
In simple terms: Man is inherently with God, making godlessness impossible.
Key Takeaway
Sin is a misalignment, not a true state.
Themes
theology
anthropology
existentialism
sin
identity
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal crisis of faith
- ethical decision making
- spiritual counseling
Key Concepts
ontology
divine immanence
human nature
Practical Applications
- theological education
- pastoral care
Questions to Reflect On
- What does it mean to be 'with God' in everyday life?
- How does this view of sin affect moral responsibility?
