"Christ: I dislike him very much. Still, I can stand him. What I cannot stand is the wretched band of people whose profession is to hoodwink us about him"

This quote by Samuel Butler is a commentary on the hypocrisy of those who proclaim to be fans of Christ. Butler is revealing his disdain for those who declare to be devoted to Christ, yet do not measure up to the standards of his mentors. He is saying that while he might not like Christ, he can still accept him. Nevertheless, he can decline individuals who use Christ's name to trick and manipulate others. Butler is criticizing those who use religion as a tool to gain power and influence, rather than to spread out the message of love and approval that Christ taught. He is suggesting that these people are not true followers of Christ, but rather are using his name to advance their own agendas. Butler's quote is a pointer that real faith ought to be based upon authentic belief and not on the control of others.