It wasn't until December 1837 that Kierkegaard realised that he was defending Christianity from outwith it.

He said If Christ is to come in to his life it must be according to the Scriptures.

It would seem that he came in through locked doors.

On 18 May1838 he had an experience which represented a new beginning a "prodigal's return".

Later he said " I mean to have a more inward relation to Christianity".