“The idea that God is forgiving, you see, does not do any good. God must send someone to do it here and now. Even the idea that God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son – the idea, true as it is, and the basis for everything – is not enough. It is past tense: God so loved, that he gave. But what does he do today, for you? The scriptural word must, through proper theological reflection – the purpose of systematic theology! – be used to drive to the preaching, the proclamation: Yes it is true, God so loved that he gave. But now, therefore, I today, here and now give it: This is my body given for you; my blood shed for you. Eat it! Drink it!”

– Gerhard O. Forde, “The Preached God” (54)