The Apology of the Augsburg ConfessionMelanchthon, Philipp
Religion
The Apology of the Augsburg Confession
Melanchthon, Philipp
Lutheran Church -- Catechisms
If we also were to narrate the offenses of the adversaries, which,
indeed, we have no desire to do, it would be a terrible list: what an
abominable, blasphemous fair the adversaries have made of the Mass;
what unchaste living has been instituted by their celibacy; how the
Popes have for more than 400 years been engaged in wars against the
emperors, have forgotten the Gospel, and only sought to be emperors
themselves, and to bring all Italy into their power how they have
juggled the possessions of the Church; how through their neglect many
false teachings and forms of worship have been set up by the monks.
Is not their worship of the saints manifest pagan idolatry? All
their writers do not say one word concerning faith in Christ, by
which forgiveness of sin is obtained; the highest degree of holiness
they ascribe to human traditions, it is chiefly of these that they
write and preach. Moreover this, too, ought to be numbered with
their offenses, that they clearly reveal what sort of a spirit is in
them, because they are now putting to death so many innocent, pious
people on account of Christian doctrine. But we do not now wish to
say more concerning this; for these matters should be decided in
accordance with God's Word, regardless of the offenses on either aide.
We hope that all God-fearing men will sufficiently see from this
writing of ours that ours is the Christian doctrine and comforting
and salutary to all godly men. Accordingly, we pray God to extend
His grace to the end that His holy Gospel may be known and honored by
all, for His glory, and for the peace, unity, and salvation of all of
us. Regarding all these articles we offer to make further statements
if required.]
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