History of the Church part III

What is the Difference Between the Churches?

While this report is an over-simplification, it is basically correct. On the important issues all true members of the Church agree. The important issues are: the person and work of Jesus, His birth, His death, His resurrection. As Augustine said almost 1600 years ago...."In the essentials, Unity. In the non-essentials, Liberty. In all things, Charity." While I do not believe we should compromise any of our beliefs, yet we should be able to see what is "essential" and what is not, and love one another as Christ gave us commandment.

Roman Catholics and Protestants agree on:

The Person of Jesus Christ ( who He is)
The virgin birth of Christ
The Deity of Christ
The sacrificial and atoning death of Christ
The resurrection of Christ
The eventual return of Christ

Roman Catholics and Protestants disagree on:

The authority of the Scriptures
The authority of tradition
The authority of leaders in the Church
The method of salvation
Water baptism
Communion
The status of Mary
Saints
The realm of the dead
Rituals
Celibacy

Again, the above is oversimplified. Basically the Roman Catholic Church believes that God works through the liturgy. If you do the rituals proscribed by the Church you will receive grace from God. While some Protestant Church hold similar beliefs, most of them believe that God works in the heart by faith, apart from the works that are done. The works that are done, are done because grace has already been received, not in order to receive it.

Protestants agree on:

The Person of Jesus Christ (who He is)
The virgin birth of Christ
The Deity of Christ
The sacrificial and atoning death of Christ
The resurrection of Christ
The eventual return of Christ

Protestants disagree on most everything else. Sometimes almost violently.

When and how Jesus will return
Modes of baptism (sprinkling, pouring, immersion, infant, adult, when you join a Church, etc.)
Communion
The authority of Scriptures
How the Church is to be governed
The nature and work of grace
The role of women
The Trinity
Baptism of the Holy Spirit
Sanctification
Justification
Musical instruments
Healing
Gifts of the Spirit
Faith
Tithing
satan and demons
Clothing
Hair styles
Jewelry
etc. etc. etc.

And quite often many have majored on these differences, forgetting that the job of the Church is show Jesus and His love to the world. A sad commentary. Let us make a serious effort not to be part of the problem!

Click Here for Part I

Click Here for Part II