Assumption Quote by Karl Barth
“On the basis of the eternal will of God we have to think of EVERY HUMAN BEING, even the oddest, most villainous or miserable, as one to whom Jesus Christ is Brother and God is Father; and we have to deal with him on this assumption. If the other person knows that already, then we have to strengthen him in the knowledge. If he does no know it yet or no longer knows it, our business is to transmit this knowledge to him.”
About This Quote
Source Theology: Church Dogmatics, Volume I, 1932
Treat every person as a brother in Christ and a child of God, regardless of their flaws, and help them know this truth.
In simple terms: See everyone as a sibling of Christ and God’s child, and share that belief.
Key Takeaway
Act with compassion and share the gospel.
Themes
compassion
theology
human dignity
Mood
empathetic
hopeful
Type
spiritual
ethical
When to use this quote
- pastoral care
- mission work
- interpersonal conflict
- community building
Key Concepts
Christian doctrine
universality
redemptive love
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you demonstrate brotherly love to someone you find difficult?
- What obstacles arise in sharing faith with the marginalized?
A Different Perspective
May be challenging when confronting deeply held contrary beliefs.
