The Greatest Christian Quote I’ve Ever Read (Outside of Scripture)
This One Quote Captures the Essence of the Gospel and is SO Encouraging
Let me share a powerful quote from Martin Luther that captures the essence of the Gospel:
“When I look at myself, I think how can I ever be saved? When I look at Christ, I think, how can I not be?”
This quote perfectly sums up the heart of the Gospel, and I want to explain why it is so powerful.
1. We Humans Can Never Be Good Enough to “Save” Ourselves
The Gospel emphasizes that we cannot be good enough through our own efforts to earn eternal life, have a relationship with God, or enter heaven. The Bible teaches that we are spiritually dead, and even one sin separates us from a perfect, holy God (Romans 3:23, 6:23). Every time we break God's life laws, we fall short of His holiness.
Even after decades of following Jesus, when I focus on my imperfections and sins, I often wonder, “How can I ever be saved?” One sin is enough to keep us out of heaven and from having a relationship with God.
2. FOCUS ON CHRIST
The Gospel shifts our focus away from ourselves to Jesus Christ. Jesus came to give us abundant life (John 10:10). He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). Jesus is perfect in holiness, love, and righteousness—in Him there is no darkness (1 John 1:5). He is the creator and sustainer of all things (Hebrews 1:2-4), the Alpha and the Omega, and so much greater than we can comprehend.
3. Who Jesus Is and What He Accomplished Are Perfect
Through His sacrificial death, resurrection, and ascension, Jesus accomplished what we could never do on our own. When we place our faith in Him (not our own goodness), God makes us new creations. He grants us His righteousness, holiness, and cleansing as a gift. We don’t have to try to be good enough or earn our way to heaven—eternal life is a gift of God’s grace.
When we focus on Jesus—His greatness, His love, and the perfect salvation He offers—it transforms our perspective. It changes our outlook and allows us to confidently say, “How can I not be saved?”
The Focus Is on Him
When I feel discouraged by my imperfections or feel like I'm not living up to the example of Christ, I can remember: It’s not about my goodness. When I focus on Jesus, His greatness, and His completed work, I am encouraged and reminded of the power of His love and grace. The more I focus on Him, the more my faith is strengthened, and the more I can confidently say, “How can I not be saved?”
This perspective is life-changing. It fills me with encouragement, faith, and fresh dedication to live His way.
My goal is to help busy believers experience God more deeply, grow consistently—both spiritually and personally—and confidently live out their unique purpose.
