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Humanity Quote by Peter J. Gomes

“The question should not be 'What would Jesus do?' but rather, more dangerously, 'What would Jesus have me do?' The onus is not on Jesus but on us, for Jesus did not come to ask semidivine human beings to do impossible things. He came to ask human beings to live up to their full humanity; he wants…” quote by Peter J. Gomes
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“The question should not be 'What would Jesus do?' but rather, more dangerously, 'What would Jesus have me do?' The onus is not on Jesus but on us, for Jesus did not come to ask semidivine human beings to do impossible things. He came to ask human beings to live up to their full humanity; he wants us to live in the full implication of our human gifts, and that is far more demanding.”

Peter J. Gomes

About This Quote

Source Sermon: Faith and Responsibility, 2005

True moral responsibility lies in interpreting divine guidance for personal humanity, not in blind obedience.

In simple terms: Live up to human potential, not just follow rules.

Key Takeaway

Interpret faith through personal responsibility.

Themes

faith responsibility humanity

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • church leadership
  • personal decision‑making
  • social activism
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

theology ethical agency self‑actualization

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance personal conscience with tradition?
  • What does “full humanity” mean to you?
A Different Perspective

Interpretations can vary, causing conflict.

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