Christianity Quote by Roland H. Bainton
““Who can understand this? Philosophy is unequal to it. Only faith can grasp so high a mystery. This is the foolishness of the cross which is hid from the wise and prudent. Reason must retire. She cannot understand that "God hides his power in weakness, his wisdom in folly, his goodness in severity, his justice in sins, his mercy in anger." How amazing that God in Christ should do all this; that the Most High, the Most Holy should be All Loving too; that the ineffable Majesty should stoop to take upon himself our flesh, subject to hunger and cold, death and desperation. We see him lying in the feedbag of a donkey, laboring in a carpenter's shop, dying a derelict under the sins of the world. The gospel is not so much a miracle as a marvel, and every line is suffused with wonder.””
About This Quote
The passage argues that divine mysteries surpass human reason, requiring faith to grasp the paradox of God's humility and love manifested in Christ.
In simple terms: Faith accesses divine paradox beyond logic.
Key Takeaway
God's love is revealed in weakness.
Themes
theology
faith vs. reason
mystery
humility
divine love
Mood
reverence
wonder
Type
theological exposition
inspirational
When to use this quote
- sermon preparation
- theological study
- spiritual counseling
- personal reflection
- academic lecture
Key Concepts
Christ's incarnation
spiritual paradox
Practical Applications
- religious education
- devotional writing
Questions to Reflect On
- What does it mean to 'retire' reason in faith?
- How does humility shape divine perception?
