The backslider likes the preaching that wouldn't hit the side of a house, while the real disciple is delighted when the truth brings him to his knees.
Interpretation
This quote contrasts the indifference of those avoiding truth with the appreciation of those seeking genuine understanding.
Billy Sunday's quote reflects on the difference between those who shy away from genuine truths and the disciples who embrace them, even if it means facing uncomfortable realities. It suggests that true seekers of wisdom value the moral and spiritual revelations that can challenge or humble them, as opposed to those who prefer superficial teachings that do not provoke change or growth.
In practice
This quote would be perfect for a sermon discussing the importance of accepting difficult truths in one's faith journey.
Whenever a day comes when I can stand and preach God's Word without an agony of anxiety lest the people will not accept Christ; whenever a day comes when I can see men and women coming down the aisles without joy in my heart, I'll quit preaching.
Going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than going to a garage makes you an automobile.
The saloon is a liar. It promises good cheer and sends sorrow.
I don't believe there are devils enough in hell to pull a boy out of the arms of a godly mother.
The trouble with many men is that they have got just enough religion to make them miserable. If there is not joy in religion, you have got a leak in your religion.
The church is not a dormitory for sleepers, it is an institution for workers; it is not a rest camp, it is a front line trench.
A great burden was lifted from my shoulders the day I realized that no one owes me anything.
I thought, I need to be more cautious about my choices - it reflects on who I am.
Dear young people, please, donβt be observers of life, but get involved. Jesus did not remain an observer, but he immersed himself. Donβt be observers, but immerse yourself in the reality of life, as Jesus did.
Your failures won't hurt you until you start blaming them on others.
Judging others makes us blind, whereas love is illuminating. By judging others we blind ourselves to our own evil and to the grace which others are just as entitled to as we are.
The true nature of all wealth is temporary; those who have wealth must here and now do good deeds that will live for a long time.
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