Doctrine Quote by Timothy Keller
““Ironically, the insistence that doctrines do not matter is really a doctrine itself. It holds a specific view of God, which is touted as superior and more enlightened than the beliefs of most major religions. So the proponents of this view do the very thing they forbid in others.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Reason for God by Timothy Keller, 2008
The claim that doctrines are irrelevant is itself a doctrine, asserting a superior view of God over other religions.
In simple terms: Claiming doctrine irrelevance is itself a doctrine.
Key Takeaway
Recognize hidden doctrines in arguments.
Themes
theology
dogma
religious tolerance
critical thinking
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- interfaith dialogues
- religious debates
- personal belief formation
- teaching
- faith communities
Key Concepts
Epistemology
meta‑doctrine
authority
Questions to Reflect On
- What doctrines do you assume are neutral?
- How does labeling others' beliefs as inferior affect dialogue?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook the value of doctrinal traditions for identity and community.
![“24 A few pages later, Delbanco writes the following: [Alexis de] Tocqueville’s detection of a “strange melancholy in the midst of abundance” has a special salience today — because while we have gotten very good at deconstructing old stories (the religion that was the subject of my first chapter…” quote by Timothy Keller](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/85a/timothy-keller-240_sad_24-a-few-pages-later-delbanco-writes-the_25320.jpg)
