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Beware you are not a fiery, persecuting enthusiast. Do not imagine that God has called you (just contrary to the spirit of Him you style your Master) to destroy men's lives, and not to save them. Never dream of forcing men into the ways of God. Think yourself, and let think. Use no constraint in matters of religion. Even those who are farthest out of the way never compel to come in by any other means than reason, truth, and love.

John Wesley#27

ReligionLoveFreedomPersuasionRespect

About this quote

What does it mean?
Do not force religion on others; use reason and love.
In plain terms
Never compel belief; persuade with truth instead.
What can you take from it?
Respect freedom in spiritual matters.

Where it applies

  • missionary work
  • family discussions
  • community leadership

Putting it to work

  • listen first
  • share gently
  • respect choices

Questions to consider

  • How do you share faith respectfully?
  • When is persuasion inappropriate?

Another view

Some traditions prioritize doctrinal purity over individual choice.

More from John Wesley

  1. As to the word itself, it is generally allowed to be of Greek extraction. But whence the Greek word, enthousiasmos, is derived, none has yet been able to show.…

    Permalink to quote #26
  2. Beware, lastly, of imagining you shall obtain the end without using the means conducive to it. God can give the end without any means at all; but you have no r…

    Permalink to quote #28
  3. 'And Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself.' Acts 26:24. And so say all the world, the men who know not God, of all that are of Paul's r…

    Permalink to quote #25

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