The Christian is in a different position from other people who are trying to be good. They hope, by being good, to please God if there is one; or - if they think there is not - at least they hope to deserve approval from good men. But the Christian thinks any good he does comes from the Christ-life inside him. He does not think God will love us because we are good, but that God will make us good because He loves us; just as the roof of a greenhouse does not attract the sun because it is bright, but becomes bright because the sun shines on it.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Lewis argues Christian goodness comes from being loved by God, not earning it.
- In plain terms
- God makes you good because He loves you, not the other way around.
- What can you take from it?
- Love leads to goodness.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do you seek approval first?
- How do you view your goodness?
Another view
It relies on specific theological premises about God.
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