All of this longing for guilt comes from the conviction that, if we will make ourselves feel bad enough and carrying a burden of remorse long enough, we will merit God’s grace. But who really wants us pressed down and paralyzed by a burden of guilt? Satan. He is our accuser (see Rev.12:10). Nothing pleases him more than for Christians to beat themselves down into paralyzing depression or unproductive despair. The Bible does not say our guilty feelings or compensating recriminations will make us right with God. God makes us right with God. He does not want us bowed down in despair. He is the lifter of our heads (Ps. 3:3).
— Bryan Chapell (b. 1954), Theologe, Pastor und Autor
Related Bible passage: PSA.3.3
Topics: Guilt & Forgiveness, Grace & Redemption, Fear & Anxiety
Occasions: Encouragement
Bryan Chapell
Bryan Chapell (* 1954) ist ein US-amerikanischer presbyterianischer Pastor, Theologe und ehemaliger Präsident des Covenant Theological Seminary. Bekannt wurde er durch sein Konzept der christuszentrierten Auslegungspredigt, das biblische Texte ausgehend von menschlicher Gebrochenheit konsequent auf die Gnade Gottes in Christus bezieht. Für Bibelleser bieten seine Schriften methodische Zugänge, um Bibeltexte jenseits von reinem Moralismus im heilsgeschichtlichen Zusammenhang zu verstehen.
All quotes by Bryan Chapell (42)
I am the prodigal son every time I search for unconditional love where it cannot be found.
Henri Nouwen
There are two ways to do good: to give and to forgive.
Augustine of Hippo
God counts on your failure far more than you do yourself.
Hans Peter Royer
The church is a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints.
Tim Keller
Forgiveness means allowing the other person not to have to be God.
Henri Nouwen
Love keeps no record of wrongs, but bitterness keeps detailed accounts.
Craig Groeschel
John Newton
Tim Keller