SERMONS
current series:
The Arena
Theodore Roosevelt's famous "Man in the Arena" passage is actually part of a larger speech titled "Citizenship in a Republic", delivered at the Sorbonne in Paris on April 23, 1910.
While the speech touched on various topics including family, education, and the state of the nation, it was primarily a call to action for active citizenship. Roosevelt was urging his audience to engage in public life, to be involved in their communities, and to strive for making a positive impact on society.
The "Man in the Arena" metaphor served as a powerful analogy to illustrate the courage and determination required for such engagement. It was a rallying cry for those who were willing to take risks, to face criticism, and to strive for greatness in the face of adversity.
In essence, the context of the speech was a broader call to action for active citizenship, with the "Man in the Arena" passage serving as a particularly inspiring and memorable highlight.
We will not be talking about “citizenship in a republic,” but we will be focused on what it means to be a member of our church community,