Christianity
True Christianity begins when one is so wretched that their only desire is to die and find comfort in God.
Soren Kierkegaard emphasizes the paradoxical nature of Christianity, highlighting the journey of true conversion where one must go beyond mere external labels of being a Christian to a deep inner transformation. He challenges the notion that one can best become a Christian without the trappings of organized religion, suggesting that true Christianity starts when one reaches a point of utter brokenness and desperation. Kierkegaard suggests that it is in our lowest moments, when all worldly comforts fail us, that we can truly encounter the essence of Christianity and the need for divine intervention.
Text
When Christianity entered into the world, people were not Christians, and the difficulty was to become a Christian. Nowadays the difficulty in becoming a Christian is that one must cease to become a Christian. One best becomes a Christian without "Christianity." Not until a person has become so wretched that his only wish, his only consolation, is to die--not until then does Christianity truly begin.
Sermon Outline
- The Difficulty of Becoming a Christian
- The Nature of True Christianity
- The Path to True Christianity
- Humility and Desperation
- The Role of Suffering
Key Quotes
“One best becomes a Christian without 'Christianity.'” — Soren Kierkegaard
“Not until a person has become so wretched that his only wish, his only consolation, is to die--not until then does Christianity truly begin.” — Soren Kierkegaard
Application Points
- Recognize the true nature of Christianity as a personal relationship with God rather than external practices.
- Cultivate humility and desperation in your walk with God, allowing yourself to be wretched and dependent on Him.
- Find comfort and consolation in God, even in the midst of suffering.