Christianity is in its nature revolutionary
Walter RauschenbuschRead
Those influences which really make and mar human happiness and greatness are beyond the reach of the law. The law can keep neighbors from trespassing, but it cannot put neighborly courtesy and good-will into their relations.
Interpretation
Laws can regulate behavior but cannot nurture kindness and goodwill among people.
This quote by Walter Rauschenbusch emphasizes that while laws play a crucial role in maintaining order and protecting rights, they are limited in their ability to foster true human connection and happiness. The essence of neighborly kindness and goodwill cannot be legislated; it must arise from personal choices and social interactions that go beyond legal constraints.
In practice
In a community meeting, one might use this quote to discuss the importance of fostering relationships and goodwill among neighbors.
Christianity is in its nature revolutionary
The Kingdom of God is not a matter of getting individuals to heaven, but of transforming the life on earth into the harmony of heaven.
Whoever uncouples the religious and the social life has not understood Jesus. Whoever sets any bounds for the reconstructive power of the religious life over the social relations and institutions of men, to that extent denies the faith of the Master.
We never live so intensely as when we love strongly. We never realize ourselves so vividly as when we are in full glow of love for others.
We don't have a word for the opposite of loneliness, but if we did, I could say that's what I want in life.
Woman begins by resisting a man's advances and ends by blocking his retreat.
This is what I miss, Cordelia: not something that’s gone, but something that will never happen. Two old women giggling over their tea.
Those who say they will forgive but can't forget, simply bury the hatchet but leave the handle out for immediate use.
Take a look at me now, cause there's just an empty space. And you coming back to me is against all odds and that's what I've got to face.
You learn nothing about men by snubbing them and crushing their pride. You must ask them what it is they can do in this world, that they alone can do.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.