One hundred religious persons knit into a unity by careful organizations do not constitute a church any more than eleven dead men make a football team. The first requisite is life, always.

Summary

This quote highlights the idea that a church or any organized group cannot be built solely on structure and organization alone. It emphasizes that true unity and purpose stem from vitality and an active participation of individuals. The presence of life, both figuratively and potentially literally, within a group is essential for it to truly function and thrive. Mere numbers or an organized framework are insufficient if there is no genuine spirit or engagement present amongst the members. Life, metaphorically representative of enthusiasm, faith, and commitment, is the fundamental prerequisite for a community or institution to qualify as a church or accomplish its intended purpose effectively.

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