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Quote by Marilynne Robinson

“There is something about human beings that makes our 'love for the world' often look like hatred for it. Jesus said 'Do not think I have come to bring peace on earth. I have not come to bring peace but a sword.' (Matthew 10:34) He said a number of things. 'Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you' (Matthew 5:44), for example. And "Put your sword back in it's place, for all who live by the sword will perish by the sword.' (Matthew 26:52) But for whatever reason - as a Calvinist I might propose our fallen state - human beings have found the obedience to the commandment to love one another modified by the statement I quoted first (which does not have the form of a commandment although it is taken to have the force of one). And it has inspired the response: 'Send me, Lord!' with far more passion and consistency than the commandment which tradition says is the last Jesus gave us: that we 'love one another' (John 15:17). As a consequence, Christians have often loved their enemies to death. Their enemies often being other Christians.”

Quote by Marilynne Robinson

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Marilynne Robinson
Marilynne Robinson

Marilynne Robinson is an American novelist known for her profound religious and moral themes. Her works often explore personal faith, social justice, and human relationships, earning her widespread acclaim. Born on November 26, 1943, Robinson's novels 'Gilead' and 'Housekeeping' have received extensive praise. more

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