Meaning: The quote by Jim Elliot, a well-known clergyman and missionary, reflects on the nature of laws and the contrast he sees between human laws and the law of God. Elliot was a devout Christian who dedicated his life to spreading the Christian faith, particularly to indigenous peoples in Ecuador. His perspective on the law of God as one that condemns but also forgives and restores is rooted in his belief in the redemptive power of God's grace.

In the first part of the quote, Elliot makes a bold statement about human laws, suggesting that they condemn the soul and pronounce sentence. This can be interpreted as a commentary on the punitive nature of many legal systems, where laws are often designed to punish and hold individuals accountable for their actions. Elliot's use of the word "soul" implies that he sees human laws as having a profound impact on the spiritual and moral well-being of individuals. He may be suggesting that human laws often focus on judgment and punishment rather than on spiritual growth and redemption.

In contrast to human laws, Elliot then introduces the law of his God as perfect, emphasizing its ability to condemn but also forgive. This reflects a central tenet of the Christian faith, which teaches that God's law is rooted in love, mercy, and forgiveness. In Christian theology, the concept of forgiveness is deeply intertwined with the belief in redemption and the restoration of one's relationship with God. Elliot's reference to the law of God as one that restores "more than abundantly" what it takes away highlights his belief in the transformative and restorative power of God's grace.

The quote can also be interpreted in the context of Elliot's missionary work and his encounters with indigenous communities in Ecuador. As he sought to spread the Christian message, Elliot likely grappled with questions of justice, forgiveness, and the impact of human and divine laws on the lives of the people he was trying to reach. His reflection on the law of God may have been shaped by his experiences witnessing the transformative power of faith and the forgiveness offered through the Christian message.

Overall, Jim Elliot's quote offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of laws and their impact on the human soul. He presents a contrast between human laws, which he sees as condemning, and the law of God, which he views as perfect, forgiving, and restorative. Through his words, Elliot invites contemplation on the intersection of justice, mercy, and redemption, drawing on his Christian faith to convey a message of hope and grace.