The Reformation: The Roots of Protestantism. Outline: I. What the Early Church Believed II. What Roman Catholics Added III. Why a Reformation was Needed

The Reformation:The Roots of ProtestantismThe Reformation:

The Roots of Protestantism

Outline:Outline:• I. What the Early Church Believed• II. What Roman Catholics Added• III. Why a Reformation was

Needed. • IV. What Protestants Believe• V. Branches of Protestantism

• I. What the Early Church Believed• II. What Roman Catholics Added• III. Why a Reformation was

Needed. • IV. What Protestants Believe• V. Branches of Protestantism

Introduction Introduction

World Adherents: Protestants--375,815,000

US Protestants------52%

US Roman Catholics--24%

Countries: Worldwide (see map)

World Adherents: Protestants--375,815,000

US Protestants------52%

US Roman Catholics--24%

Countries: Worldwide (see map)

Religions of the World Religions of the World Total Christian 2,133,806,000

Roman Catholics 1,118,991,000

Independents 425,170,000 Protestants 375,815,000 Orthodox 219,501,000 Anglicans 79,718,000 Muslims 1,308,941,000 Hindus 860,133,000 Chinese Universists 404,921,000 Buddhists 378,808,000 Sikhs 25,377,700 Jews 15,073,000

(Wholesome Words.org)

Total Christian 2,133,806,000

Roman Catholics 1,118,991,000

Independents 425,170,000 Protestants 375,815,000 Orthodox 219,501,000 Anglicans 79,718,000 Muslims 1,308,941,000 Hindus 860,133,000 Chinese Universists 404,921,000 Buddhists 378,808,000 Sikhs 25,377,700 Jews 15,073,000

(Wholesome Words.org)

I. What the Early Church BelievedI. What the Early Church Believed

• A. The Early Confessions and Creeds– One Bible– Two Testaments– Three Creeds (Apostles, Nicene, Athanasian)– Four Councils (Nicea (326), Constantinople

(381), Ephesus (431), and Chalcedon (451)– Five Centuries

• A. The Doctrines Held in Common

• A. The Early Confessions and Creeds– One Bible– Two Testaments– Three Creeds (Apostles, Nicene, Athanasian)– Four Councils (Nicea (326), Constantinople

(381), Ephesus (431), and Chalcedon (451)– Five Centuries

• A. The Doctrines Held in Common

• A. Bible is Inspired and Complete: The Bible is the complete and inspired Word

of God.• C. The Trinity: There are three persons

in one eternal God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

• D. Christ: He is both God and Man, two natures united in one person.

• E. Virgin Conception: Jesus was miraculously conceived in Mary’s womb.

I. What the Early Church BelievedI. What the Early Church Believed

• F. Atonement: Jesus alone paid the full price for our salvation from the

guilt and eternal consequences of our sins.

• G. Resurrection: Jesus arose from the dead in the same body in which He

died. H. Ascension: Jesus ascended visibly into heaven in the same body in which He was raised immortal.

• F. Atonement: Jesus alone paid the full price for our salvation from the

guilt and eternal consequences of our sins.

• G. Resurrection: Jesus arose from the dead in the same body in which He

died. H. Ascension: Jesus ascended visibly into heaven in the same body in which He was raised immortal.

• I. Church Universal: All confessed the same basic beliefs in creeds. All held

• Christ is the invisible Head; There is no one visible head over all churches.

• K. Heaven and Hell: There is a place of eternal conscious bliss for the saved and another place of eternal conscious woe for the unsaved.

• J. Second Coming: Jesus will return to earth bodily to judge the wicked and to reward the righteous.

• I. Church Universal: All confessed the same basic beliefs in creeds. All held

• Christ is the invisible Head; There is no one visible head over all churches.

• K. Heaven and Hell: There is a place of eternal conscious bliss for the saved and another place of eternal conscious woe for the unsaved.

• J. Second Coming: Jesus will return to earth bodily to judge the wicked and to reward the righteous.

• II. What Roman Catholics Added • A. What They Added in Doctrine:• 1. The Apocrypha to the Bible.• 2. An infallible Pope to the Infallible Bible.• 3. Works to grace as a condition for salvation.• 4. Works to faith as means of receiving salvation.• 5. Mary to Christ as means of mediating salvation.

– a. Praying to Mary--A.D. 680– b. Bodily Assumption of Mary--A.D. 1950 – c. Making Mary a Mediatrix & Co-Redemptrix with Christ.

• 6. Purgatory to the Cross for completing salvation (1546).• 7. Institutional Church to Christ as means of dispensing grace that

brings salvation (1215, 1546).

• II. What Roman Catholics Added • A. What They Added in Doctrine:• 1. The Apocrypha to the Bible.• 2. An infallible Pope to the Infallible Bible.• 3. Works to grace as a condition for salvation.• 4. Works to faith as means of receiving salvation.• 5. Mary to Christ as means of mediating salvation.

– a. Praying to Mary--A.D. 680– b. Bodily Assumption of Mary--A.D. 1950 – c. Making Mary a Mediatrix & Co-Redemptrix with Christ.

• 6. Purgatory to the Cross for completing salvation (1546).• 7. Institutional Church to Christ as means of dispensing grace that

brings salvation (1215, 1546).

Church Sanctioned Book on Mary• The Glories of Mary by Alponsus de Liquori,

(1750)--over 800 editions!• “Shall we scruple to ask her to save us, when

‘the way of salvation’ is open to none otherwise than through Mary.”

• “Many things...are asked from God, and are not granted: they are asked from Mary, and are obtained.”

• “At the command of Mary all obey--even God.”

•B. What they added in practice:• 1. Venerating of Mary to the worship of God.

• 2. Veneration of images to the worship of God.

• 3. Worship of the host to the worship of God.

• 4. Prayers to dead saints to prayers to living God.

• 5. Priests to laity as means of approaching God. • 6. Indulgences to grace to gain the favor of God.

• 7. Confession of sins to a priest instead of to God.

Note: These are serious errors in doctrine and deed.

•B. What they added in practice:• 1. Venerating of Mary to the worship of God.

• 2. Veneration of images to the worship of God.

• 3. Worship of the host to the worship of God.

• 4. Prayers to dead saints to prayers to living God.

• 5. Priests to laity as means of approaching God. • 6. Indulgences to grace to gain the favor of God.

• 7. Confession of sins to a priest instead of to God.

Note: These are serious errors in doctrine and deed.

•C. What they added in authority:• I. New Testament Church: Elders (=Bishops) • In Independent Self-Governing Churches • II. Subapostolic Church: Same as NT Church• III. Early Post-Apostolic Church: One Bishop Over Elders

in Each Self-Governing Church• IV. Pre-Medieval Church: Regional Bishops Over a

Whole Area of Churches• V. Medieval Church: One Bishop of Rome Over

All Churches• VI. Modern Church: One Infallible Bishop of Rome Over

All Churches (1870)

•C. What they added in authority:• I. New Testament Church: Elders (=Bishops) • In Independent Self-Governing Churches • II. Subapostolic Church: Same as NT Church• III. Early Post-Apostolic Church: One Bishop Over Elders

in Each Self-Governing Church• IV. Pre-Medieval Church: Regional Bishops Over a

Whole Area of Churches• V. Medieval Church: One Bishop of Rome Over

All Churches• VI. Modern Church: One Infallible Bishop of Rome Over

All Churches (1870)

Outline:Outline:• I. What the Early Church Believed• II. What Roman Catholics Added• III. Why a Reformation was

Needed: A. To Return to Original New Testament Christianity.

• B. Luther and Calvin Started It.• C. The Anabaptist Continued It.

• I. What the Early Church Believed• II. What Roman Catholics Added• III. Why a Reformation was

Needed: A. To Return to Original New Testament Christianity.

• B. Luther and Calvin Started It.• C. The Anabaptist Continued It.

Thank God for Martin Luther!Thank God for Martin Luther!

October 31, 1517October 31, 1517

IV. What Protestants BelieveIV. What Protestants Believe• A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)• B. Christ alone (sola Christa)• C. Grace alone (sola gratia)• D. Faith alone (sola fidei) • E. [Some add] “For the glory of God

alone.”• Note: Roman Catholics believe in the necessity of

grace but not the exclusivity of grace (since they believe good works are also necessary for salvation).

• A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)• B. Christ alone (sola Christa)• C. Grace alone (sola gratia)• D. Faith alone (sola fidei) • E. [Some add] “For the glory of God

alone.”• Note: Roman Catholics believe in the necessity of

grace but not the exclusivity of grace (since they believe good works are also necessary for salvation).

IV. What Protestants BelieveIV. What Protestants Believe

• A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)• A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)

IV. What Protestants Believe IV. What Protestants Believe • A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)

– 1. Not an Infallible Pope too because:• a. Peter was only part of the foundation (Eph.

2:20).

• A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)– 1. Not an Infallible Pope too because:

• a. Peter was only part of the foundation (Eph. 2:20).

IV. What Protestants BelieveIV. What Protestants Believe• A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)


2:20).• b. Peter did not have greater regular power (Mt.

18:18).



• b. Peter did not have greater regular power (Mt. 18:18).

IV. What Protestants BelieveIV. What Protestants Believe• A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)



18:18). • c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).




• c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).




18:18). • c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).• d. He was held to account by the church (Acts 11:1-

18).




• c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).• d. He was held to account by the church (Acts 11:1-

18).





18).• e. He was rebuked by Paul for His error (Gal. 2:11-

14).




• c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).• d. He was held to account by the church (Acts 11:1-

18).• e. He was rebuked by Paul for His error (Gal. 2:11-

14).


– 1. Not an Infallible Pope too because:• a. Peter was only part of the foundation (Eph. 2:20).• b. Peter did not have greater regular power (Mt.


18).• e. He was rebuked by Paul for His error (Gal. 2:11-14).• f. Peter never passed it on to another (Acts 14:23).


• a. Peter was only part of the foundation (Eph. 2:20).• b. Peter did not have greater regular power (Mt.


18).• e. He was rebuked by Paul for His error (Gal. 2:11-14).• f. Peter never passed it on to another (Acts 14:23).


– 1. Not an Infallible Pope too because:• a. Peter was only part of the foundation (Eph. 2:20).• b. Peter did not have greater regular power (Mt. 18:18). • c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).• d. He was held to account by the church (Acts 11:1-18).• e. He was rebuked by Paul for His error (Gal. 2:11-14).• f. Peter never passed it on to another (Acts 14:23).• g. Pope Honorius I (A.D. 625-638) taught heresy.


• a. Peter was only part of the foundation (Eph. 2:20).• b. Peter did not have greater regular power (Mt. 18:18). • c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).• d. He was held to account by the church (Acts 11:1-18).• e. He was rebuked by Paul for His error (Gal. 2:11-14).• f. Peter never passed it on to another (Acts 14:23).• g. Pope Honorius I (A.D. 625-638) taught heresy.


– 1. Not an Infallible Pope too because:• a. Peter was only part of the foundation (Eph. 2:20).• b. Peter did not have greater regular power (Mt. 18:18). • c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).• d. He was held to account by the church (Acts 11:1-18).• e. He was rebuked by Paul for His error (Gal. 2:11-14).• f. Peter never passed it on to another (Acts 14:23).• g. Pope Honorius I (A.D. 625-638) taught heresy. • h. Others made grave errors (e.g., condemning Galileo).


• a. Peter was only part of the foundation (Eph. 2:20).• b. Peter did not have greater regular power (Mt. 18:18). • c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).• d. He was held to account by the church (Acts 11:1-18).• e. He was rebuked by Paul for His error (Gal. 2:11-14).• f. Peter never passed it on to another (Acts 14:23).• g. Pope Honorius I (A.D. 625-638) taught heresy. • h. Others made grave errors (e.g., condemning Galileo).


– 1. Not an Infallible Pope too because:• a. Peter was only part of the foundation (Eph. 2:20).• b. Peter did not have greater regular power (Mt. 18:18). • c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).• d. He was held to account by the church (Acts 11:1-18).• e. He was rebuked by Paul for His error (Gal. 2:11-14).• f. Peter never passed it on to another (Acts 14:23).• g. Pope Honorius I (A.D. 625-638) taught heresy. • h. Others made grave errors (e.g., Galileo case). • i. Sometimes there were two or more Popes.


• a. Peter was only part of the foundation (Eph. 2:20).• b. Peter did not have greater regular power (Mt. 18:18). • c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).• d. He was held to account by the church (Acts 11:1-18).• e. He was rebuked by Paul for His error (Gal. 2:11-14).• f. Peter never passed it on to another (Acts 14:23).• g. Pope Honorius I (A.D. 625-638) taught heresy. • h. Others made grave errors (e.g., Galileo case). • i. Sometimes there were two or more Popes.


– 1. Not an Infallible Pope too because:• a. Peter was only part of the foundation (Eph. 2:20).• b. Peter did not have greater regular power (Mt. 18:18). • c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).• d. He was held to account by the church (Acts 11:1-18).• e. He was rebuked by Paul for His error (Gal. 2:11-14).• f. Peter never passed it on to another (Acts 14:23).• g. Pope Honorius I (A.D. 625-638) taught heresy. • h. Others made grave errors (e.g., Galileo case). • i. Sometimes there were two or more Popes.• J. One Pope Sixtus (1590) published an “inspired”

versions of Bible with thousands of errors in it.


• a. Peter was only part of the foundation (Eph. 2:20).• b. Peter did not have greater regular power (Mt. 18:18). • c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).• d. He was held to account by the church (Acts 11:1-18).• e. He was rebuked by Paul for His error (Gal. 2:11-14).• f. Peter never passed it on to another (Acts 14:23).• g. Pope Honorius I (A.D. 625-638) taught heresy. • h. Others made grave errors (e.g., Galileo case). • i. Sometimes there were two or more Popes.• J. One Pope Sixtus (1590) published an “inspired”

versions of Bible with thousands of errors in it.


– 1. Not an Infallible Pope too because:• a. Peter was only part of the foundation (Eph. 2:20).• b. Peter did not have greater regular power (Mt. 18:18). • c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).• d. He was held to account by the church (Acts 11:1-18).• e. He was rebuked by Paul for His error (Gal. 2:11-14).• f. Peter never passed it on to another (Acts 14:23).• g. Pope Honorius I (A.D. 625-638) taught heresy. • h. Others made grave errors (e.g., Galileo case). • i. Sometimes there were two or more Popes.• J. One Pope Sixtus (1590) published “inspired” versions

of Bible with thousands of errors.• k. There is no infallible list of infallible statements.


• a. Peter was only part of the foundation (Eph. 2:20).• b. Peter did not have greater regular power (Mt. 18:18). • c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).• d. He was held to account by the church (Acts 11:1-18).• e. He was rebuked by Paul for His error (Gal. 2:11-14).• f. Peter never passed it on to another (Acts 14:23).• g. Pope Honorius I (A.D. 625-638) taught heresy. • h. Others made grave errors (e.g., Galileo case). • i. Sometimes there were two or more Popes.• J. One Pope Sixtus (1590) published “inspired” versions

of Bible with thousands of errors.• k. There is no infallible list of infallible statements.


– 1. Not an Infallible Pope too because:• a. Peter was only part of the foundation (Eph. 2:20).• b. Peter did not have greater regular power (Mt. 18:18). • c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).• d. He was held to account by the church (Acts 11:1-18).• e. He was rebuked by Paul for His error (Gal. 2:11-14).• f. Peter never passed it on to another (Acts 14:23).• g. Pope Honorius I (A.D. 625-638) taught heresy. • h. Others made grave errors (e.g., Galileo case). • i. Sometimes there were two or more Popes.• J. One Pope Sixtus (1590) published “inspired” versions of Bible with thousands of errors in it.• k. There is no infallible list of infallible statements.• l. Some alleged infallible statements are unbiblical.


• a. Peter was only part of the foundation (Eph. 2:20).• b. Peter did not have greater regular power (Mt. 18:18). • c. Peter was sent out by others (Acts 8:14).• d. He was held to account by the church (Acts 11:1-18).• e. He was rebuked by Paul for His error (Gal. 2:11-14).• f. Peter never passed it on to another (Acts 14:23).• g. Pope Honorius I (A.D. 625-638) taught heresy. • h. Others made grave errors (e.g., Galileo case). • i. Sometimes there were two or more Popes.• J. One Pope Sixtus (1590) published “inspired” versions of Bible with thousands of errors in it.• k. There is no infallible list of infallible statements.• l. Some alleged infallible statements are unbiblical.


– 1. Not an Infallible Pope– 2. Not an Infallible Apocrypha

• A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)– 1. Not an Infallible Pope– 2. Not an Infallible Apocrypha

“Apocrypha” means hidden or doubtful. Eleven of the these books were added to the Bible by the Roman Catholic Church.

“Apocrypha” means hidden or doubtful. Eleven of the these books were added to the Bible by the Roman Catholic Church.

1) The Wisdom of Solomon (c. 30 B.C.)2) Ecclesiasticus (Sirach) (c. 132 B.C.)3) Tobit (c. 200 B.C.)4) Judith (c. 150 B.C.)5) 2 Esdras (c. 100 A.D.) [4 Esdras in Catholic Bible]6) 1 Esdras (c. 150-100 B.C.) [3 Esdras in Catholic

Bible]7) 1 Maccabees (c. 110 B.C.)8) 2 Maccabees (c. 110-70 B.C.)9) Baruch (c. 150-50 B.C.)---Baruch 1-5

(Letter of Jeremiah [c. 300-100 B.C.])--Baruch 610) Addition to Esther (140-130 B.C.)11) Prayer of Azariah (2nd or 1st cent B.C.)--Daniel

3:24-9012) Susanna (2nd or 1st cent B.C.)--Daniel 1313) Bel and the Dragon (c. 100 B.C.)--Daniel 1414) Prayer of Manasseh (2nd or 1st cent B.C.)

1) The Wisdom of Solomon (c. 30 B.C.)2) Ecclesiasticus (Sirach) (c. 132 B.C.)3) Tobit (c. 200 B.C.)4) Judith (c. 150 B.C.)5) 2 Esdras (c. 100 A.D.) [4 Esdras in Catholic Bible]6) 1 Esdras (c. 150-100 B.C.) [3 Esdras in Catholic

Bible]7) 1 Maccabees (c. 110 B.C.)8) 2 Maccabees (c. 110-70 B.C.)9) Baruch (c. 150-50 B.C.)---Baruch 1-5

(Letter of Jeremiah [c. 300-100 B.C.])--Baruch 610) Addition to Esther (140-130 B.C.)11) Prayer of Azariah (2nd or 1st cent B.C.)--Daniel

3:24-9012) Susanna (2nd or 1st cent B.C.)--Daniel 1313) Bel and the Dragon (c. 100 B.C.)--Daniel 1414) Prayer of Manasseh (2nd or 1st cent B.C.)

There Were 14 Apocryphal BooksThere Were 14 Apocryphal Books

Why Protestants Reject the Apocrypha

Why Protestants Reject the Apocrypha

1) It does not claim to be inspired by God.2) It was not written by prophets of God (1 Mac. 9:27).3) It was not confirmed by supernatural acts of God (Heb. 2:3-4).4) It does not always tell the truth of God:

On praying for the dead (2 Mac. 12:46);On working for salvation (Tobit 12:9).

5) It was not accepted by the people of God (viz., the Jewish people to whom it was given).6) It was not accepted by Jesus the Son of God (Lk. 24:27).7) It was not accepted as inspired by the Apostles of God.8) It as not accepted by the Early Church of God. 9) It was not accepted by the Catholic translator of Word of God.10) It was not written during the period of prophets of God.

1) It does not claim to be inspired by God.2) It was not written by prophets of God (1 Mac. 9:27).3) It was not confirmed by supernatural acts of God (Heb. 2:3-4).4) It does not always tell the truth of God:

On praying for the dead (2 Mac. 12:46);On working for salvation (Tobit 12:9).

5) It was not accepted by the people of God (viz., the Jewish people to whom it was given).6) It was not accepted by Jesus the Son of God (Lk. 24:27).7) It was not accepted as inspired by the Apostles of God.8) It as not accepted by the Early Church of God. 9) It was not accepted by the Catholic translator of Word of God.10) It was not written during the period of prophets of God.

– The Jewish Historian Josephus:– “From Artaxerxes [4th cent B.C.] until our

time everything has been recorded, but has not been deemed worthy of like credit with what preceded, because the exact succession of the prophets ceased” (Contra Apion 1.8).

– The Jewish Talmud: “With the death of Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi the latter prophets, the Holy Spirit ceased out of Israel” (Tos. Sotah 13:2).

– The Jewish Historian Josephus:– “From Artaxerxes [4th cent B.C.] until our

time everything has been recorded, but has not been deemed worthy of like credit with what preceded, because the exact succession of the prophets ceased” (Contra Apion 1.8).

– The Jewish Talmud: “With the death of Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi the latter prophets, the Holy Spirit ceased out of Israel” (Tos. Sotah 13:2).

10) It was not written during the period of prophets of God (according to Jewish Teaching):

10) It was not written during the period of prophets of God (according to Jewish Teaching):


– 1. Not an Infallible Pope– 2. Not an Infallible Apocrypha

• A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)– 1. Not an Infallible Pope– 2. Not an Infallible Apocrypha


– 1. Not an Infallible Pope– 2. Not an Infallible Apocrypha– 3. Protestant Response to Verses

Catholics Use to Prove Infallibility

• A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)– 1. Not an Infallible Pope– 2. Not an Infallible Apocrypha– 3. Protestant Response to Verses

Catholics Use to Prove Infallibility

3. Verses Used to Prove Infallibility3. Verses Used to Prove Infallibility

• Matthew 16:18-19: “You are Peter (petros--little rock) and on this rock (petra--big rock) I will build My church, and the gates of hell will not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

• (He used the keys in Acts 2 and 10.)

• Matthew 16:18-19: “You are Peter (petros--little rock) and on this rock (petra--big rock) I will build My church, and the gates of hell will not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

• (He used the keys in Acts 2 and 10.)

Response to Matthew 16:18-19Response to Matthew 16:18-19

• 1. There are three views on this verse (the “rock” is Christ, Peter, Peter’s faith). No dogma should be built on one view in a disputed text.

• 2. Christ is the “rock” foundation of the church (1Cor. 3:11; 1Pet. 2:7; Rev. 21:4).

• 3. All apostles were part of the foundation of the Church, not just Peter (Eph. 2:20).

• 4. Before the Reformation this verse was only rarely used to support Peter’s primacy and infallibility (cf. St. Augustine).

• 5. Other apostles were given the same authority to bind and loose (Mt. 18:18).

• 6. Peter’s use of the “keys” was historical and temporary (Acts 2, 10).

• 1. There are three views on this verse (the “rock” is Christ, Peter, Peter’s faith). No dogma should be built on one view in a disputed text.

• 2. Christ is the “rock” foundation of the church (1Cor. 3:11; 1Pet. 2:7; Rev. 21:4).

• 3. All apostles were part of the foundation of the Church, not just Peter (Eph. 2:20).

• 4. Before the Reformation this verse was only rarely used to support Peter’s primacy and infallibility (cf. St. Augustine).

• 5. Other apostles were given the same authority to bind and loose (Mt. 18:18).

• 6. Peter’s use of the “keys” was historical and temporary (Acts 2, 10).

Response to Matthew 16:Response to Matthew 16:• 7. Even if it does refer to Peter, it does not support

infallibility, apostolic succession, or exclusive authority, but the one who in faith confessed Christ.

• 8. Other verses show Peter had no real primacy over the other apostles since:

• a) He was send out by the apostles (Acts 8:14).• b) He was not the head of the Jerusalem

council; James was (15:13-21).• c) He was rebuked by Paul for serious error

(Gal. 2:11-14). • d) He was upstaged by Paul (Acts 9-28) in both

mission and writings.

• 7. Even if it does refer to Peter, it does not support infallibility, apostolic succession, or exclusive authority, but the one who in faith confessed Christ.

• 8. Other verses show Peter had no real primacy over the other apostles since:

• a) He was send out by the apostles (Acts 8:14).• b) He was not the head of the Jerusalem

council; James was (15:13-21).• c) He was rebuked by Paul for serious error

(Gal. 2:11-14). • d) He was upstaged by Paul (Acts 9-28) in both

mission and writings.

9. There is no evidence of apostolic succession.

a. Jesus said “you,” not your successors.

b. When the apostle James died, no successor was appointed (Acts 12:2).

c. Alleged successors do not have “signs of an apostle” (2 Cor. 12:12).

d. Apostles were limited to the first century (to eyewitnesses of the resurrection--Acts 1:22; 1 Cor. 9:1).

9. There is no evidence of apostolic succession.

a. Jesus said “you,” not your successors.

b. When the apostle James died, no successor was appointed (Acts 12:2).

c. Alleged successors do not have “signs of an apostle” (2 Cor. 12:12).

d. Apostles were limited to the first century (to eyewitnesses of the resurrection--Acts 1:22; 1 Cor. 9:1).

IV. What Protestants Believe IV. What Protestants Believe

• A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)• B. Christ alone (sola Christa)

• A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)• B. Christ alone (sola Christa)

B. Christ alone (sola Christa)B. Christ alone (sola Christa)

– 1. Not Christ plus Purgatory•Christ purged all our sins and their

results on the Cross (Heb. 1:3; Jn. 19:30; Isa. 53:4-6).

•There is no Purgatory (Lk. 16:19-26; Heb. 9:27; Rom. 8:1).

– 1. Not Christ plus Purgatory•Christ purged all our sins and their

results on the Cross (Heb. 1:3; Jn. 19:30; Isa. 53:4-6).


B. Christ alone (sola Christa)B. Christ alone (sola Christa)– 1. Not Christ plus Purgatory

•Christ purged all our sins and their results on the Cross (Heb. 1:3; Jn. 19:30; Isa. 53:4-6).


– 2. Not Christ plus Mary called by Catholics:•“Queen of Heaven” (see Jer. 7:18).•“Mother of God” (see Mt. 1:20-21: Lk. 1:43, 46).•“Co-Mediatrix” (see 1Tim. 2:5).•“Co-Redemptress” (Heb. 1:3; 7:25; 10:12-14).

– 1. Not Christ plus Purgatory•Christ purged all our sins and their results on

the Cross (Heb. 1:3; Jn. 19:30; Isa. 53:4-6).•There is no Purgatory (Lk. 16:19-26; Heb. 9:27;

Rom. 8:1).

– 2. Not Christ plus Mary called by Catholics:•“Queen of Heaven” (see Jer. 7:18).•“Mother of God” (see Mt. 1:20-21: Lk. 1:43, 46).•“Co-Mediatrix” (see 1Tim. 2:5).•“Co-Redemptress” (Heb. 1:3; 7:25; 10:12-14).


• A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)• B. Christ alone (sola Christa)• C. Grace alone (sola gratia)

• A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)• B. Christ alone (sola Christa)• C. Grace alone (sola gratia)

C. Grace alone (sola gratia)C. Grace alone (sola gratia)

• 1. Not God’s Grace plus our Works.• 2. But by God’s grace alone.

– Titus 3:5: “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us….”

– Rom. 11:6: “And if by grace, then it is no longer of works; other wise grace is no longer grace. But if it is of works, it is no longer grace; otherwise work is no longer work.”

• 1. Not God’s Grace plus our Works.• 2. But by God’s grace alone.

– Titus 3:5: “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us….”

– Rom. 11:6: “And if by grace, then it is no longer of works; other wise grace is no longer grace. But if it is of works, it is no longer grace; otherwise work is no longer work.”


• A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)• B. Christ alone (sola Christa)• C. Grace alone (sola gratia)• D. Faith alone (sola fidei)

• A. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)• B. Christ alone (sola Christa)• C. Grace alone (sola gratia)• D. Faith alone (sola fidei)

D. Faith alone (sola fidei)D. Faith alone (sola fidei)• 1. Not by Faith Plus Works• 2. But by faith alone

– a. We are justified by faith alone•Rom. 4:5: “But to him who does not work, but

believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness.”

•Eph. 2:8-9: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”

• (cf. Jn. 3:16, 36; Jn. 5:24; Acts 16:31)

• 1. Not by Faith Plus Works• 2. But by faith alone

– a. We are justified by faith alone•Rom. 4:5: “But to him who does not work, but

believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness.”

•Eph. 2:8-9: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”

• (cf. Jn. 3:16, 36; Jn. 5:24; Acts 16:31)

b. Verses Used by Catholics b. Verses Used by Catholics

– Jas. 2:24: “You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith alone.”




– Note: This is justification before men; Paul is speaking of justification before God.


– Note: This is justification before men; Paul is speaking of justification before God.



– Note: This is justification before men; Paul is speaking of justification before God. Others can’t see our faith, only our works that manifest it.

– Key thought: We are justified by faith alone (Paul). But the faith that justifies us is not alone (James); it is the kind of faith that produces good works.


– Note: This is justification before men; Paul is speaking of justification before God. Others can’t see our faith, only our works that manifest it.

– Key thought: We are justified by faith alone (Paul). But the faith that justifies us is not alone (James); it is the kind of faith that produces good works.

b. Verses Used by Catholics b. Verses Used by Catholics – Jas. 2:24: “You see then that a man is – justified by works, and not by faith alone.” – Note: This is justification before men; Paul is

speaking of justification before God.– Key thought: We are justified by faith alone

(Paul). But the faith that justifies us is not alone; it is the kind of faith that produces good works.

– Context: “Faith without works is dead” (v. 20). – “I will show you my faith by my works” (v. 18).

– Jas. 2:24: “You see then that a man is – justified by works, and not by faith alone.” – Note: This is justification before men; Paul is

speaking of justification before God.– Key thought: We are justified by faith alone

(Paul). But the faith that justifies us is not alone; it is the kind of faith that produces good works.

– Context: “Faith without works is dead” (v. 20). – “I will show you my faith by my works” (v. 18).

b. Verses Used by Catholicsb. Verses Used by Catholics• Phil. 2:12: “Work out your own salvation

with fear and trembling.”• Note: • 1) He did not say work for your salvation,

but work out your salvation.• 2) It was God that worked it in us (v. 13).• “For it is God who works in you both to to

will and to do for His good pleasure.”

• Phil. 2:12: “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”

• Note: • 1) He did not say work for your salvation,

but work out your salvation.• 2) It was God that worked it in us (v. 13).• “For it is God who works in you both to to

will and to do for His good pleasure.”

b. Verses Used by Catholicsb. Verses Used by Catholics• Col. 1:24: “I now rejoice in my suffering

for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body.”

• Note:• 1) He did not speak of what is lacking in the

sacrifice of Christ but only in our suffering for us (cf. Phil. 1:29).

• 2) There is nothing lacking in our salvation from Christ but only in our service for Him.

• Col. 1:24: “I now rejoice in my suffering for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body.”

• Note:• 1) He did not speak of what is lacking in the

sacrifice of Christ but only in our suffering for us (cf. Phil. 1:29).

• 2) There is nothing lacking in our salvation from Christ but only in our service for Him.

• E. Verses to Use with Roman Catholics

John 5:24: John 5:24:•“Amen Amen, I say to you,

whoever hears My word and believes in the One who sent me has eternal life, and will not come into condemnation, but has passed from death to life.” (NAB)

•“Amen Amen, I say to you, whoever hears My word and believes in the One who sent me has eternal life, and will not come into condemnation, but has passed from death to life.” (NAB)

Romans 4:4-5: Romans 4:4-5:•“A worker’s the wage is

credited not as gift, but as something due. But when one does not work, yet believes in the one who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited as righteousness.” (NAB)

•“A worker’s the wage is credited not as gift, but as something due. But when one does not work, yet believes in the one who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited as righteousness.” (NAB)

Romans 8:1: Romans 8:1:•“Hence, now there is no

condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus….” (NAB)

•“Hence, now there is no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus….” (NAB)

Romans 11:6: Romans 11:6:•“But if by grace, then it is

no longer because of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.” (NAB)

•“But if by grace, then it is no longer because of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.” (NAB)

Ephesians 2:8-9: Ephesians 2:8-9: •“For by grace you have

been saved through faith, and this is not from you; it is the gift of God; it is not of works, so no one may boast.”

•“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not from you; it is the gift of God; it is not of works, so no one may boast.”

Hebrews 10:11-14: Hebrews 10:11-14:• “Every priest stands daily at his

ministry, offering frequently those same sacrifices that can never take away sins. But this one [Christ] offered one sacrifice for sins , and took his seat forever…. For by one offering He has made perfect forever those who are being consecrated.”

• “Every priest stands daily at his ministry, offering frequently those same sacrifices that can never take away sins. But this one [Christ] offered one sacrifice for sins , and took his seat forever…. For by one offering He has made perfect forever those who are being consecrated.”

Summary of Protestant DistinctivesSummary of Protestant Distinctives

• 1. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)• 2. Christ alone (sola Christa)• 3. Grace alone (sola gratia)*• 4. Faith alone (sola fidei) • Summary: Protestants, in contrast to Catholics,

believe we are saved by grace alone, based on the work of Christ alone, received through faith alone, and grounded on the authority of Scripture alone.

• *Roman Catholics believe in the necessity of grace but not the exclusivity of grace (since they believe good works are also necessary for salvation).

• 1. The Bible alone (sola Scriptura)• 2. Christ alone (sola Christa)• 3. Grace alone (sola gratia)*• 4. Faith alone (sola fidei) • Summary: Protestants, in contrast to Catholics,

believe we are saved by grace alone, based on the work of Christ alone, received through faith alone, and grounded on the authority of Scripture alone.

• *Roman Catholics believe in the necessity of grace but not the exclusivity of grace (since they believe good works are also necessary for salvation).

VI. Branches of the Reformation VI. Branches of the Reformation

• A. Martin Luther (1483-1546)-- Lutherans

• B. John Calvin (1509-1564)--Presbyterians and Reformed

• C. Ulrich Zwingli (1484-1531)--Swiss Reformed

• D. Balthasar Hubmaier (1485-1528)--Anabaptist

• A. Martin Luther (1483-1546)-- Lutherans

• B. John Calvin (1509-1564)--Presbyterians and Reformed

• C. Ulrich Zwingli (1484-1531)--Swiss Reformed

• D. Balthasar Hubmaier (1485-1528)--Anabaptist

Communion: Five ViewsCommunion: Five Views“This is My body…”1) Physically (Roman and Eastern Orthodox)2) Permeationally (Luthern)3) Spiritually (Reformed)4) Symbolically (Baptist) Rejection of the Catholic View: a) It is not necessary (Jesus used figures of speech). b) It is not plausible (cf. Passover meal). c) It is not possible (Jesus physical body was holding the

elements). d) It is idolatrous (they worship the host which is not God). e) It undermines miracles (like the resurrection) by showing

undermining trust in our senses.

“This is My body…”1) Physically (Roman and Eastern Orthodox)2) Permeationally (Luthern)3) Spiritually (Reformed)4) Symbolically (Baptist) Rejection of the Catholic View: a) It is not necessary (Jesus used figures of speech). b) It is not plausible (cf. Passover meal). c) It is not possible (Jesus physical body was holding the

elements). d) It is idolatrous (they worship the host which is not God). e) It undermines miracles (like the resurrection) by showing

undermining trust in our senses.

Reasons for the Symbolic View 1. It is done in “remembrance” of Him.

2. It is to “proclaim” His death.

3. It had no spiritual effect on those who partook in an unworthy manner.

4. It flowed from the Passover which was a memorial service using symbols.

5. Jesus was sacrificed only once (Heb. 10:14-15), not over and over again.

Note: Symbols are important and can be sacred.

1. It is wrong to burn a flag. 2. It is wrong to desecrate a grave.

Reasons for the Symbolic View 1. It is done in “remembrance” of Him.

2. It is to “proclaim” His death.

3. It had no spiritual effect on those who partook in an unworthy manner.

4. It flowed from the Passover which was a memorial service using symbols.

5. Jesus was sacrificed only once (Heb. 10:14-15), not over and over again.







NT Ch Roman Eastern Anglic Luth. Reformed Baptist

15 basic Doctrines X X X X X X X

Four Creeds X X X X X X X

Process. of Spirit X X X X X X

Infant Baptism X X X X XBaptismal Regen. X X X XEpiscopal Govt X X X X*Tradition X X XPriesthood X X X Purgatory X X- X*Immac. Conception X X* Apocrypha X X- X- Icons X X X*7 Sacraments X X X* Transubstantiation X X X*Primacy of Pope X X X*Mary Bodily Assumption X X Venerate Mary X X X* Perpetual Virginity X X X* Prayer to Mary and Saints X X X*Worship of Host X X X*Works needed for Salvation X XInfallibility of Pope X Mary Mediatrix X X*=some X-=non-authoritative

The Gradual Development of the Roman Catholic ChurchThe Gradual Development of the Roman Catholic Church

• 325--Bishops have authority over a whole region• 381-- Emperor Theodosius founded a Christian State• 451--Pronounced an Archbishop over other Bishops• 553--Affirmed the perpetual virginity of Mary• 680--Council claimed to be “illuminated by the Holy Spirit” and “clean

from all error, certain, and infallible” – Mary called “Our holy Lady, the holy, immaculate, ever-virgin and

glorious Mary, truly and properly the Mother of God”• 787--It ruled in favor of icons and venerating images

– It pronounced anathema on all who do not venerated icons– It forbid secular appointment of Bishops (thus solidifying the authority of

Religion over the State).– It affirmed the Primacy of Peter and apostolic succession– It claimed “the holy Roman Church which has prior rank, – which is the head of all the Churches of God”

• 325--Bishops have authority over a whole region• 381-- Emperor Theodosius founded a Christian State• 451--Pronounced an Archbishop over other Bishops• 553--Affirmed the perpetual virginity of Mary• 680--Council claimed to be “illuminated by the Holy Spirit” and “clean

from all error, certain, and infallible” – Mary called “Our holy Lady, the holy, immaculate, ever-virgin and

glorious Mary, truly and properly the Mother of God”• 787--It ruled in favor of icons and venerating images

– It pronounced anathema on all who do not venerated icons– It forbid secular appointment of Bishops (thus solidifying the authority of

Religion over the State).– It affirmed the Primacy of Peter and apostolic succession– It claimed “the holy Roman Church which has prior rank, – which is the head of all the Churches of God”

The Gradual Development of the Roman Catholic ChurchThe Gradual Development of the Roman Catholic Church• 869--It condemned the schism of Photius, Patriarch of

Constantinople who challenged the filioque clause.• 1123--First Council called by a Pope (Callistus). It affirmed the

“Concordat of Worms” (1122) that the Pope, not the Emperor, had right to invest a Bishop with ring and staff and and receive homage.

• 1139--Convoked by Pope Innocent II to reform the Church Condemned the schism of Arnold of Bresia who spoke against confession to a priest rather than another laymen

• 1179--Convened by Pope Alexander III to counter anti-Pope Callistus III

– It affirmed that the right to elect a Pope was restricted to the college of Cardinals by 2/3 majority vote

• 1215--Affirmed Transubstantiation, primacy of Bishop of Rome, and Seven Sacraments – Set up Office of the Inquisitors to investigate heresy and turned them

over to the State for punishment .

• 869--It condemned the schism of Photius, Patriarch of Constantinople who challenged the filioque clause.

• 1123--First Council called by a Pope (Callistus). It affirmed the “Concordat of Worms” (1122) that the Pope, not the Emperor, had right to invest a Bishop with ring and staff and and receive homage.

• 1139--Convoked by Pope Innocent II to reform the Church Condemned the schism of Arnold of Bresia who spoke against confession to a priest rather than another laymen

• 1179--Convened by Pope Alexander III to counter anti-Pope Callistus III

– It affirmed that the right to elect a Pope was restricted to the college of Cardinals by 2/3 majority vote

• 1215--Affirmed Transubstantiation, primacy of Bishop of Rome, and Seven Sacraments – Set up Office of the Inquisitors to investigate heresy and turned them

over to the State for punishment .

The Gradual Development of the Roman Catholic

Church The Gradual Development of the Roman Catholic

Church • 1245--Frederick II was condemned for imprisoning Cardinals and

Bishop on their way to the Council.• 1274--Aquinas affirmed the authority of Pope to form a biblical creed• 1312--Affirmed decrees concerning Inquisition (which Frederick II made

in 1232)• 1415--It condemned John Wycliffe after his death (in 1384)

(His follower John Huss was burned at the stake by Rome)– Claimed Ecumenical Council has authority over the Pope– “This Council holds its power direct from Christ; everyone, no

matter his rank of office, even if it is papal, is bound to obey it in whatever pertains to faith.”

• 1431-1437--Affirmed Purgatory, and the Primacy of the Pope– Immaculate Conception of Mary declared biblical and Catholic [Later

declared dogma by Pope Pius IX, 1854]

• 1245--Frederick II was condemned for imprisoning Cardinals and Bishop on their way to the Council.

• 1274--Aquinas affirmed the authority of Pope to form a biblical creed• 1312--Affirmed decrees concerning Inquisition (which Frederick II made

in 1232)• 1415--It condemned John Wycliffe after his death (in 1384)

(His follower John Huss was burned at the stake by Rome)– Claimed Ecumenical Council has authority over the Pope– “This Council holds its power direct from Christ; everyone, no

matter his rank of office, even if it is papal, is bound to obey it in whatever pertains to faith.”

• 1431-1437--Affirmed Purgatory, and the Primacy of the Pope– Immaculate Conception of Mary declared biblical and Catholic [Later

declared dogma by Pope Pius IX, 1854]


• 1512-1517--Called by Pope Julius II to invalidate anti-papal Council of Pisa convened by Louis XII of France

– A Few minor reforms were instituted.– The main issues of reform were not treated by the Council.– [Luther treated the issues in his Reformation by posting his 95

Thesis posted October 31, 1517]• 1545-1563--Convoked to counter the Reformation

– It infallibly pronounced Purgatory, indulgences, veneration of saints and images, prayers for the dead, the canonicity of the Apocrypha, the necessity of good works for salvation, seven sacraments, transubstantiation, and tradition as a second source of revelation.

• 1869-1870--It pronounced the Pope is infallible on faith and practice: The Pope’s “definitions are irreformable of themselves, and not from the consent of the Church.”

• 1512-1517--Called by Pope Julius II to invalidate anti-papal Council of Pisa convened by Louis XII of France

– A Few minor reforms were instituted.– The main issues of reform were not treated by the Council.– [Luther treated the issues in his Reformation by posting his 95

Thesis posted October 31, 1517]• 1545-1563--Convoked to counter the Reformation

– It infallibly pronounced Purgatory, indulgences, veneration of saints and images, prayers for the dead, the canonicity of the Apocrypha, the necessity of good works for salvation, seven sacraments, transubstantiation, and tradition as a second source of revelation.

• 1869-1870--It pronounced the Pope is infallible on faith and practice: The Pope’s “definitions are irreformable of themselves, and not from the consent of the Church.”


• 1950--The Bodily Assumption of Mary proclaimed dogma by Pope Pius XII

• 1962-1963--Failed in attempt at union with Eastern Church– Called Protestants “separated brethren”– Instituted minor changes in ritual (e.g., Mass in local

languages)– Claimed sincere non-Christians can be saved

Note: No real change in objectionable doctrines about the Apocrypha, venerating Mary, works needed for salvation, sacraments, transubstantiation, purgatory, prayers to saints, worshiping the host, prayers to dead saints, and indulgences.

• 1950--The Bodily Assumption of Mary proclaimed dogma by Pope Pius XII

• 1962-1963--Failed in attempt at union with Eastern Church– Called Protestants “separated brethren”– Instituted minor changes in ritual (e.g., Mass in local

languages)– Claimed sincere non-Christians can be saved

Note: No real change in objectionable doctrines about the Apocrypha, venerating Mary, works needed for salvation, sacraments, transubstantiation, purgatory, prayers to saints, worshiping the host, prayers to dead saints, and indulgences.

Documents

The Reformation: The Roots of Protestantism. Outline: I. What the Early Church Believed II. What Roman Catholics Added III. Why a Reformation was Needed