Skip to content

Compassion Quote by Martin Luther

“This is exactly how those who rely on their own efforts to be justified still act today. They concentrate on the good that they do, which they hope will please God. They don’t trust in God’s mercy and his grace. They aren’t hoping that God will forgive their sins through Christ. This” quote by Martin Luther
Download Open image
““This is exactly how those who rely on their own efforts to be justified still act today. They concentrate on the good that they do, which they hope will please God. They don’t trust in God’s mercy and his grace. They aren’t hoping that God will forgive their sins through Christ. This””

Martin Luther

About This Quote

Source Sermon: On Faith and Works, Martin Luther, 1520

People may act piously but still lack trust in divine mercy, seeking justification through deeds rather than grace.

In simple terms: Good deeds alone don’t guarantee God’s forgiveness.

Key Takeaway

Rely on grace, not just works.

Themes

faith grace human effort

Mood

reflective serious

Type

theological spiritual

When to use this quote

  • personal prayer
  • church teaching
  • ethical decision making
  • spiritual counseling

Key Concepts

justification divine mercy self‑reliance

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you trust in grace or your own actions?
  • How does reliance on works affect humility?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on works can breed legalism.

4.6 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Martin Luther

Explore all 1,292 Martin Luther quotes

More Compassion quotes

Browse all 9,892 Compassion quotes