“Faith is permitting ourselves to be seized by the things we do not see.”
- November 10, 1483 – February 18, 1546
- Born in the Holy Roman Empire (Germany)
- Reformer, theologian
- Promoted the Protestant Reformation and published the Ninety-five Theses
Quote
“Faith is permitting ourselves to be seized by the things we do not see.”
Explanation
In this quote, Martin Luther describes faith as an act of submission and trust in that which is invisible and often beyond human comprehension. Faith, in this sense, involves allowing oneself to be overwhelmed or taken hold of by beliefs and truths that cannot be empirically proven or seen with the eyes. It is the acceptance of the unseen—specifically, God’s presence, grace, and promises—trusting that they are real and active in one’s life, even though they cannot be directly perceived. Luther’s view suggests that faith is not based on physical evidence, but rather on a deep internal conviction that allows a person to embrace what cannot be fully understood or experienced through the senses.
Luther’s theology places great emphasis on the idea that faith is the key to salvation, and it is through faith, rather than works or visible acts, that an individual encounters God and receives grace. This quote captures the essence of Luther’s doctrine of justification by faith alone, where one must trust in God’s promises even in the absence of tangible proof. It is this willingness to surrender to the divine, without relying on human reason or sensory evidence, that marks true faith. The ability to be “seized” by the unseen is, for Luther, the foundation of a strong and unwavering spiritual life.
In modern terms, this concept of faith can resonate deeply with individuals navigating uncertainty or life’s challenges. Whether in times of personal hardship or existential questions, faith allows people to move forward despite the lack of concrete answers or visible signs. This idea is also seen in hope and trust in things beyond the material world, whether in spiritual beliefs, the future, or in human connections. For many, faith is not simply believing in what can be seen, but embracing what lies beyond sight—whether it’s a higher power, purpose, or meaning that cannot be immediately grasped.
