Absence sharpens love, presence strengthens it.
Thomas FullerRead
He that falls into sin is a man; that grieves at it, is a saint; that boasteth of it, is a devil.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote explores the nature of sin and the varying responses people have to it, categorizing them as human, saintly, or devilish.
In this quote, Thomas Fuller reflects on the different human responses to sin. It suggests that falling into sin is a universal human experience, but how one reacts to it defines their character; those who recognize and grieve their sins are considered saintly, while those who take pride in their wrongdoing embody a devilish nature. This highlights the moral spectrum of human behavior in relation to ethical conduct and remorse.
Themes
SinHumanityMoralityRepentanceCharacter
In practice
Example use cases
In a sermon discussing moral integrity, one could quote this to emphasize the importance of recognizing one's faults.
More from Thomas Fuller
All quotes →Memory is the treasure house of the mind wherein the monuments thereof are kept and preserved.
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Zeal without knowledge is fire without light.
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He that cannot forgive others breaks the bridge over which he must pass himself; for every man has need to be forgiven.
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He is poor indeed that can promise nothing.
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'Tis better to suffer wrong than do it.
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