Trust is that rare and priceless treasure that wins us the affection of our heavenly Father.
Brennan ManningRead
I believe that the real difference in the American church is not between conservatives and liberals, fundamentalists and charismatics, nor between Republicans and Democrats. The real difference is between the aware and the unaware.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Awareness is more significant than political or ideological differences in the church.
Brennan Manning's quote emphasizes that the fundamental divide within the American church is not based on traditional political or theological lines, such as conservativism versus liberalism, but rather on the level of awareness and consciousness of individuals. It suggests that being aware of one's spiritual condition and the world around one is vital, transcending conventional divisions and fostering a deeper understanding of faith and community.
Themes
AwarenessChurchDifferencesConsciousnessSpirituality
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about community engagement in churches, this quote can highlight the importance of spiritual awareness.
More from Brennan Manning
All quotes →The sinners to whom Jesus directed His messianic ministry were not those who skipped morning devotions or Sunday church. His ministry was to those whom society considered real sinners. They had done nothing to merit salvation. Yet they opened themselves to the gift that was offered them. On the other hand, the self-righteous placed their trust in the works of the Law and closed their hearts to the message of grace.
Brennan ManningRead
There is the "you" that people see and then there is the "rest of you". Take some time and craft a picture of the "rest of you." This could be a drawing, in words, even a song. Just remember that the chances are good it will be full of paradox and contradictions.
Brennan ManningRead
Do you honestly believe God likes you, not just loves you because theologically God has to love you?
Brennan ManningRead
Suffering, failure, loneliness, sorrow, discouragement, and death will be part of your journey, but the Kingdom of God will conquer all these horrors. No evil can resist grace forever.
Brennan ManningRead
For Ragamuffins, God's name is Mercy. We see our darkness as a prized possession because it drives us into the heart of God. Without mercy our darkness would plunge us into despair - for some, self-destruction. Time alone with God reveals the unfathomable depths of the poverty of the spirit. We are so poor that even our poverty is not our own: It belongs to the mysterium tremendum of a loving God.
Brennan ManningRead
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