Christian, n. One who believes that the New Testament is a divinely inspired book admirably suited to the spiritual needs of his neighbor. One who follows the teachings of Christ so long as they are not inconsistent with a life of sin.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Bierce defines a Christian ironically as someone who values scripture only when it does not conflict with their own sinful behavior.
- In plain terms
- A person claims religious faith but ignores its teachings when they become inconvenient.
- What can you take from it?
- Hypocrisy often hides behind religious labels.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do we distinguish belief from behavior?
- Is this critique fair to all believers?
Another view
This definition overlooks sincere believers who struggle with sin.
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