The sentimental Christmas may be popular as a religious holiday for some because it can come off as celebrating the birth of a helpless baby. Jesus lies in a manger to be gazed upon and adored, but not to be heard and heeded. A speechless babe wrapped tightly in swaddling cloths seems more obliging in allowing people to tailor their religious beliefs however they see fit.
— David Garland (b. 1947), Neutestamentler / Theologe
Related Bible passage: LUK.2.7
Topics: God, Jesus & the Holy Spirit, Discipleship
Occasions: The Church Year, For Reflection
David Garland
David E. Garland (* 1947) ist ein US-amerikanischer baptistischer Theologe und Neutestamentler, der über Jahrzehnte am Southern Baptist Theological Seminary sowie an der Baylor University lehrte. Er ist vor allem für seine fundierten Bibelkommentare zu den Evangelien und neutestamentlichen Briefen bekannt, die historische und altgriechische Textanalyse mit theologischer Ausgewogenheit verbinden. Für heutige Bibelleser bieten seine Auslegungen verlässliche Zugänge zum antiken Kontext und den theologischen Grundaussagen des Neuen Testaments.
All quotes by David Garland (26)
You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in you.
Augustine of Hippo
Jesus calls us not to a new religion, but to life.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer
I would not be able to seek you if you had not already found me.
Augustine of Hippo
When you see a child, you catch God in the act.
Martin Luther
God does not love us because we are lovable, but because his nature is love.
Oswald Chambers
God seeks you more than your offering.
Augustine of Hippo
God has his ear at your heart.
Augustine of Hippo
God is closer to us than we are to ourselves.
Augustine of Hippo