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
A Christian is not someone who never goes wrong, but one who is enabled to repent and pick himself up and begin again, because the Christ-life is inside him.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A true Christian embraces their imperfections and has the strength to repent and start anew through their faith in Christ.
This quote by C. S. Lewis emphasizes that being a Christian does not mean being perfect or free from mistakes; rather, it highlights the importance of repentance and the ability to rise again after failing. The 'Christ-life' within a believer empowers them to recognize their shortcomings and provides the grace needed to begin anew, thus fostering a continual journey of growth and redemption.
Themes
ChristianityRepentanceForgivenessGrowthFaith
In practice
Example use cases
During a church sermon about resilience and faith, this quote can inspire the congregation to embrace their shortcomings.
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.
C. S. LewisRead
Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
C. S. LewisRead
I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
C. S. LewisRead
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
C. S. LewisRead
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