Assume Quote by Stanley Hauerwas
“We Protestants automatically assume that the Pharisees are the Catholics. They are the self-righteous people who have made Christianity a form of legalistic religion, thereby destroying the free grace of the Gospel. We Protestants are the tax collectors, knowing that we are sinners and that our lives depend upon God's free grace.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Politics of the Cross, 1992
Protestants view Catholics as legalistic, while seeing themselves as sinners needing divine grace.
In simple terms: Protestants see Catholics as rule‑bound, themselves as needing grace.
Key Takeaway
Recognize grace over legalism.
Themes
religion
self‑perception
grace
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- church dialogue
- personal reflection
- interfaith discussions
Key Concepts
theology
self‑righteousness
free will
Questions to Reflect On
- How does legalism affect faith practice?
- Can grace truly transform self‑righteousness?
A Different Perspective
Legalism can become a new form of oppression.
