Christian Quote by Richard Holloway
““This quarrel over the messianic status of Jesus within first-century Judaism had profound effects on Christianity and prompted it towards a fateful turning point that switched the emphasis from following the way of Jesus to believing things about Jesus. Gradually a Christian came to be thought of not as one who lives and acts in a certain way, but as one who holds certain convictions or theories. The trouble with religious convictions or beliefs is that, since we can rarely prove or disprove them, we get anxious about them and start quarrelling with people whose convictions or theories differ from our own.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Faith of the Future, Richard Holloway, 2005
Religious belief shifts from lived practice to doctrinal certainty, causing anxiety and conflict.
In simple terms: Beliefs become theories, leading to quarrels.
Encourage open dialogue about faith.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- interfaith discussions
- academic seminars
- personal reflection
- community groups
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence supports your convictions?
- How can we respect differing beliefs without conflict?
Rigid doctrines can hinder personal spiritual growth.