The Reformanda Initiative 88. Does Rome Teach a False Gospel?
Jul 2, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Robbie Bellis, a pastor and Reformanda Initiative fellow in Belgium, delves into the implications of Galatians 1 for Roman Catholicism. He explores the serious concerns regarding different gospels and how Catholic teachings on justification differ significantly from the doctrine of justification by faith alone. Robbie highlights the dangers of a 'Christ plus' gospel, critiques the Joint Declaration, and emphasizes the importance of understanding true assurance of salvation. He encourages listeners to engage thoughtfully with Catholic friends about these critical issues.
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Paul's Zero-Tolerance For Gospel Additions
- Paul treats any teaching that mixes works with Christ as a different gospel and therefore no gospel at all.
- This makes assessing other Christian teaching against Paul's gospel essential for determining true salvation.
Justification By Faith Is Central In Galatians
- Galatians ties the gospel tightly to justification by faith alone and not by observing the law.
- Paul repeatedly insists that final standing before God is by faith in Christ, not law-keeping.
Two-Stage Justification Mirrors Galatian Error
- Roman Catholicism teaches an initial grace-based justification followed by a works-infused final justification.
- That two-stage model mixes human works with Christ's work and parallels the Galatian error of ‘finishing by the flesh’.
