The Common Ground of Catholics and Evangelical Protestants

While often seen as being at odds, Catholics and Evangelical Protestants share far more in common than might be immediately apparent. Both groups adhere to the fundamental Creeds of historic Christianity, including the Apostles' Creed, Nicene Creed, and Athanasian Creed, which lays a foundational agreement among them. This article explores these commonalities and the areas of difference, discussing key doctrines that unify and distinguish both groups.

Unifying Beliefs

One of the most significant areas of overlap between Catholics and Evangelical Protestants is the belief in the Two Natures of Christ—divine and human. Both groups agree on the necessity of Christ's atonement for the sins of the world, the bodily resurrection, the Second Coming, and the centrality of the Holy Spirit in the process of salvation.

Both denominations also profess belief in the real existence of angels and demons, recognizing the authority of Christ over these spiritual beings. Additionally, both accept the concept of the Trinity, affirming the coexistence of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as one God.

Salvation and Grace

Despite these commonalities, the approach to salvation and the nature of grace differentiate Catholics and Evangelical Protestants.

For Catholics, the concept of grace encompasses both an external and internal aspect. Grace, in Catholic theology, is infused into the believer to assist in the path of salvation. It works synergistically with the cooperation of the believer and the sacraments. Protestants, on the other hand, view grace more externally, basing it solely on the merits of Christ achieved on the cross.

The idea of justification also differs between the two. Catholics speak of a state of grace where a person, through faith and a life lived according to the Church’s teachings, can attain favor with God and a place in heaven. This state comes with the conditions of avoiding mortal sin and becoming purified, a process involving both the individual and the Church's sacraments. Protestants view justification as a declaration of righteousness by faith alone, without works, and see the nature of saving faith as concurrent with the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Diverging Views and Misunderstandings

Disagreements between Catholics and Evangelical Protestants often arise from differing perspectives on how Christ's work applies to the world and how a person is saved. These differences can lead to misunderstandings, especially on the issue of justification.

Many Protestants mistakenly believe that Catholicism teaches a rigorous works-based salvation, which is incorrect. Catholics believe that while faith is crucial, it must be practiced through actions, sacraments, and love. This view is often confused or misunderstood by Protestants, leading to a misperception that Catholics see salvation as a matter of Works.

Protestant Perspectives on Salvation

Evangelical Protestants, particularly influenced by the Apostle Paul, emphasize a salvation based solely on faith in Christ. According to their understanding, Christ’s work is the means of salvation, accessible to all through faith. Faith in Christ, including the Holy Spirit, brings a person into a new state of grace, a new reality, and a new condition of being a child of light.

Salvation, in this view, is procured and maintained by faith alone, not by participation in the Church's institutions or sacraments. Paul's writings in Romans and Corinthians clearly highlight the importance of faith and the transfer from being a child of darkness to a child of light, and an inheritor of God's kingdom.

There is also a sense of certainty in reaching the finish line and entering heaven, with no mention of purgatory as understood in Catholic theology. However, the idea of 1 Corinthians 3:15 suggests that there might be consequences for one's actions in this life, though it is still open to interpretation.

Evangelicals and Catholics Together

For those interested in learning more about the common ground between these two groups, the Evangelicals and Catholics Together (ECT) document and conference from 1994 offer invaluable insights. This document highlights the areas of agreement and encourages mutual respect and understanding between these Christian denominations.

By delving into both the commonalities and differences, Christians can foster greater dialogue and cooperation, ultimately enriching the spiritual landscape for all believers.