From Gerhard Ebeling’s Luther, an Introduction to His Thought:
“It can appear as though God is now made a substitute for our power, just as it was suggested before that faith might be seen as a substitute for our knowledge. But is must be noted that the emphasis is not on flight from need, but on a refuge in need, not upon a change in circumstances, not on the affirmation that the saving action has taken effect, but on certainty with regard to an effect which is still to come and is still awaited. Nevertheless, the suspicion still lingers that this (Christianity) is a theology which only brings in God to satisfy a human need. But one must be cautious in advancing this objection. It would be dangerous theology which was NOT orientated towards human need and therefore towards the aspect of necessity.” (255)
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2 responses to “Some Thoughts on the "Opiate"”
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Amazing quote, even more amazing album cover! “A Woman Needs Love”? I’m going to have to do some vinyl shopping.
“But is must be noted that the emphasis is not on flight from need, but on a refuge in need, not upon a change in circumstances…”
This portion especially hits home with me!