It is the distinguishing glory of Christianity not to rest satisfied with superficial appearances, but to rectify the motives, and purify the heart.
William WilberforceRead
Christianity has been successfully attacked and marginalized… because those who professed belief were unable to defend the faith from attack, even though its attackers’ arguments were deeply flawed.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the failure of believers to adequately defend their faith against flawed criticisms.
William Wilberforce's quote reflects on the challenges faced by Christianity, emphasizing that its credibility has been undermined not necessarily by strong opposition, but by the inability of its defenders to respond effectively to flawed arguments. This serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and articulating one's beliefs in the face of criticism.
Themes
ChristianityFaithDefenseArgumentsBelief
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate on religious beliefs, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of defending one's faith.
More from William Wilberforce
All quotes →God Almighty has set before me two great objects: the suppression of the slave trade and the reformation of manners.
William WilberforceRead
The first years in Parliament I did nothing - nothing to any purpose. My own distinction was my darling object.
William WilberforceRead
In an age in which infidelity abounds, do we observe parents carefully instructing their children in the principles of faith which they profess? Or do they furnish their children with arguments for the defense of that faith? ...it is not surprising to see them abandon a position which they are unable to defend.
William WilberforceRead
No one expects to attain to the height of learning, or arts, or power, or wealth, or military glory, without vigorous resolution, strenuous diligence, and steady perseverance. Yet we expect to be Christians without labour, study, or inquiry.
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O what a blessing is Sunday, interposed between the waves of worldly business like the divine path of the Israelites through the sea! There is nothing in which I would advise you to be more strictly conscientious than in keeping the Sabbath day holy. I can truly declare that to me the Sabbath has been invaluable.
William WilberforceRead
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