Required reading
Systematic Theology by Charles Hodge (Vol 3) (Available from Amazon or free here) - Continue Chapter 20 by reading up to the subheading '20. Prayer'.
My summary
Now Hodge turns his attention to the Roman Catholic church's dogma on the Supper.
Hodge examines their teachings on:
(i) the Supper as a sacrament which bestows grace;
(ii) transubstantiation;
(iii) withholding of the cup;
(iv) the Supper as a propitiatory sacrifice.
What grabbed me
Many good remarks from Hodge in this reading.
Such as: 'The doctrine of the sacrificial character of the eucharist, is an integral part of the great system of error, which must stand or fall as a whole. Romanism is another gospel. It proposes a different method of salvation from that presented in the word of God. It teaches that no one can be saved who is out of the pale of that visible society of which the pope of Rome is the head ; and that all are saved who die within that pale. It teaches that no one can be regenerated who is not baptized ; and that there is no forgiveness for post-baptismal sins, except by the sacrament of penance and absolution at the hands of a priest. It teaches that no one can have the benefit of the Lord's Supper, who does not receive it at the hands of a properly ordained officer of the Church of Rome. It teaches that there is no valid ministry, and that there are no valid ordinances except in the line of the apostolic succession as recognized by the pope. It follows men beyond the grave. It teaches that the souls in purgatory are still under the power of the keys ; that their stay in that place or state of torment, can be prolonged or shortened at the will of the Church.'
Amen! An appalling system that undermines God's grace.
Next week's reading
Conclude Chapter 20.
Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
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