We must be global Christians with a global vision because our God is a global God.
The other gods were strong; but thou wast weak; they rode, but thou didst stumble to a throne; But to our wounds only God's wounds can speak, And not a god has wounds, but thou alone.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the unique suffering of Christ and His ability to empathize with human pain unlike any other deity.
In this quote, John Stott emphasizes the profound idea that while other gods may possess strength and power, it is through the vulnerability and wounds of Christ that true understanding and compassion for human suffering is found. The contrast is drawn between divine power and human weakness, suggesting that Christ's wounds enable Him to communicate with and heal our own struggles in a way that no other figure can, establishing a deep connection between the divine and humanity.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a sermon to discuss the significance of Christ's suffering and its relevance to human pain.
More from John Stott
All quotes →Mission arises from the heart of God Himself and is communicated from His heart to ours. Mission is the global outreach of the global people of a global God.
An unchurched christian is a grotesque anomaly. The New Testament knows nothing of such a person. For the church lies at the very center of the eternal purpose of God. It is not a divine afterthought. It is not an accident of history. On the contrary, the church is God's new community.
Saving faith is resting faith, the trust which relies entirely on the Savior.
It is a great comfort to know that our judge will be none other than our savior.
To encounter Christ is to touch reality and experience transcendence. He gives us a sense of self-worth or personal significance, because He assures us of God's love for us. He sets us free from guilt because He died for us and from paralyzing fear because He reigns. He gives meaning to marriage and home, work and leisure, personhood and citizenship.
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