The Protestant Reformation was a religious reform movement that swept throughout Europe in the 1500’s. It resulted in the creation of a branch of Christianity called Protestantism, a name used collectively to refer to the many religious groups that separated from the Roman Catholic Church due to differences in doctrine (video below). But, It is important to understand that the differences between Catholic and Protestant do not make one or the other superior or inferior. Both are members of one Christian family in the eyes of God if they have placed their faith in Jesus Christ for salvation. Both have beliefs that are different but not different enough to say that one should divide us. Romans 14 is an excellent chapter to help us understand how to handle differences.
We are encouraged to get along and not let our strong beliefs disrespect the other. We can be a “stumbling block” if we insist on others to think the same as we do or else. In other words, we are to be unconditional in love toward others especially those in churches that are different. If we insist on certain beliefs for acceptance that are not core doctrine (disputable issues), we create conditions that separate us. God desires unity in the Christian church. Unfortunately, the divisions created by the first and second split have caused a tremendous amount of misunderstanding. If we are believers in the death, burial and resurrection of Christ and have committed to following Him as our Lord and Savior, we belong to the Body of Christ no matter whether we are Roman Catholic, Greek Orthodox or Protestant. All of us will be together in the end as we are united to Christ in marriage, the church is the Bride of Christ as well as the Body of Christ. There are ultimately only two groups of people – saved and unsaved, Christian and non-Christian, sheep and goats, wheat and weeds. There is no third group. All will be judged by Christ at the end of time when every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Please visit https://sharethegift.online/next-steps/ and insure that you have made the decision for Christ and then choose a church that we help you grow in your faith in Him. For more on this topic please visit https://sharethegift.online/catholicism-vs-protestants-who-is-right/
