A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
C. S. LewisRead
When we Christians behave badly, or fail to behave well, we are making Christianity unbelievable to the outside world
Interpretation
What this quote means
The actions of Christians can positively or negatively influence how Christianity is perceived by others.
C. S. Lewis emphasizes that the behavior of Christians plays a crucial role in shaping the perception of Christianity among non-believers. When Christians conduct themselves poorly or fail to live up to their moral teachings, they undermine the credibility of their faith and create skepticism in the hearts of those observing them. This quote serves as a reminder that personal conduct is deeply intertwined with the broader impression of one's beliefs.
Themes
BehaviorFaithPerceptionCredibilityChristianity
In practice
Example use cases
In a sermon discussing the importance of integrity, this quote can highlight the impact of one's actions.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes βI enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
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