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About this quote

What does it mean?
Cromwell appeals to fellow believers to consider that they might be wrong in their convictions.
In plain terms
He asks them to think seriously that they could be mistaken about their beliefs.
What can you take from it?
Maintain intellectual humility and openness to error even in strong convictions.

Where it applies

  • theological debate
  • interpersonal conflict
  • ethical disagreement

Putting it to work

  • practice charitable skepticism
  • invite dialogue over debate

Questions to consider

  • How do you handle being wrong?
  • When is certainty dangerous?

Another view

Excessive doubt can paralyze action or undermine necessary conviction.

More from Oliver Cromwell

  1. I need pity. I know what I feel. Great place and business in the world is not worth looking after.

    Permalink to quote #18
  2. Your pretended fear lest error should step in, is like the man that would keep all the wine out of the country lest men should be drunk. It will be found an un…

    Permalink to quote #20
  3. These persons would shout as much if you and I were going to be hanged.

    Permalink to quote #17

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