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The Spirit of Prophecy Volume 4
It is true that there are real Christians in the Roman Catholic
communion. Thousands in that church are serving God according to
the best light they have. They are not allowed access to his word,
and therefore they do not discern the truth. They have never seen the
contrast between a living heart-service and a round of mere forms
and ceremonies. But God looks with pitying tenderness upon these
souls, educated as they are in a faith that is delusive and unsatisfying.
He will cause rays of light to penetrate the dense darkness that
surrounds them. He will reveal to them the truth as it is in Jesus, and
they will yet take their position with his people.
But Romanism as a system is no more in harmony with the
gospel of Christ now than at any former period in her history. The
Protestant churches are in great darkness, or they would discern
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the signs of the times. The Roman Church is far-reaching in her
plans and modes of operation. She is employing every device to
extend her influence and increase her power in preparation for a
fierce and determined conflict to regain control of the world, to re-
establish persecution, and to undo all that Protestantism has done.
Catholicism is gaining ground in our country upon every side. Look
at the number of her churches and chapels. Look at her colleges
and seminaries, so widely patronized by Protestants. These things
should awaken the anxiety of all who prize the pure principles of the
gospel.
Protestants have tampered with and patronized popery; they have
made compromises and concessions which papists themselves are
surprised to see, and fail to understand. Men are closing their eyes to
the real character of Romanism, and the dangers to be apprehended
from her supremacy. The people of our land need to be aroused to
resist the advances of this most dangerous foe to civil and religious
liberty.
Many suppose that the Catholic religion is unattractive, and that
its worship is a dull, stupid round of ceremony. Here they mistake.
While Romanism is based upon deception, it is not a coarse and
clumsy imposture. The religious service of the Romish Church is a
most impressive ceremonial. Its gorgeous display and solemn rites
fascinate the senses of the people, and silence the voice of reason and
of conscience. The eye is charmed. Magnificent churches, imposing
processions, golden altars, jeweled shrines, choice paintings, and