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
What this quote means
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.
Themes
HappinessLawGoodwillRelationshipsKindness
In practice
Example use cases
In a community meeting, one might use this quote to discuss the importance of fostering relationships and goodwill among neighbors.
More from Walter Rauschenbusch
All quotes →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.
Walter RauschenbuschRead
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.
Walter RauschenbuschRead
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.
Walter RauschenbuschRead
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