The Difference in Salvation Between Catholics & Baptists
Many theological controversies which once sharply divided Roman Catholics and Protestants have been tempered in recent years through ecumenical dialogue. One of these controversies is the historic dispute over the relationship between faith and works in determining salvation. Yet differences still remain between Baptists and Catholics on issues such as justification, sanctification, the role of the sacraments and assurance of salvation.
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Justification
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The difference between Roman Catholics and Baptists on justification is in part a matter of emphasis. Both claim that justification is a free gift bestowed from divine love. Baptists emphasize the notion of justification as an "imputation," meaning that justification changes God's relationship to sinners but does not actually make them righteous. Roman Catholics, in contrast, teach that justification has the actual effect of changing a person from being a sinner into one capable of righteous deeds.
Sanctification
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The Roman Catholic Church teaches that through sanctification the individual becomes an active participant in his or her salvation from sin. He shows evidence of salvation through meritorious works. This cooperation is an outworking or effect of God's free gift of grace. In contrast, Baptists state that sanctification is accompanied by good works but that such works are not counted as merit towards salvation.
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The Sacraments
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In the Roman Catholic Church, the seven sacraments are not only signs but also causes of grace and which contribute to salvation. Baptists claim in contrast only two sacraments (baptism and the Lord's Supper) and define these as outward signs of grace instituted by God but they do not affect an individual's salvation.
Assurance of Salvation
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In Roman Catholicism, believers say they have confidence in their salvation but not final assurance of it. In contrast, Baptists claim that Christians can know with complete assurance that they are saved.
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References
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