The Need to Curb Rome’s Increasing Influence in the EU
THE Home Secretary, Michael Howard, has aired the possibility of withdrawing from elements of the European Union treaties. He has strongly criticised that powerful arm of the Union, the European Court of Justice, branding it as a “menace” and warning that its endeavours to increase its powers for political ends is “potential tyranny”.
With this we agree. It has been the view of the Free Presbyterian Church all along that membership of the Roman Catholic dominated EU (or Common Market as it was known) would mean “a giving away of our independence and sovereignty as a nation” (1962 Synod Motion), and that it would pose a threat to our religious freedom and endanger the Protestant succession to the British throne (Religion and Morals Report. 1963 Synod).
That Rome’s finger is deeply in the EU pie is shown by its having a major say and powerful influence in the framing of EU policy, especially in social matters – and this despite the Vatican not being a member state of the EU.
Rome Skilfully Presents Itself on Internet
MANY churches and religious groups now have information about themselves listed on Internet (the worldwide information system which may be accessed by a computer linked to the telephone – it is used by millions).
The Church of Rome is no exception. It has various items on Internet, one of which is a 14-page document, Pillar of Fire, Pillar of Truth. In language, which seems at first glance to be very Biblical, it presents “basic Catholic truths” and assures the reader that in the “the Catholic faith answers to life’s most troubling questions” can be found. It skilfully gives a picture of Romanism which will undoubtedly be attractive to some who are seeking religious teaching which is authoritative and positive.
Of course, there is the bold presentation Rome’s heresies – “the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, the sacrificial nature of the Mass, the forgiveness of sins through a priest, baptismal regeneration, the existence of purgatory, Mary’s special role”, to give a few from its own list of “beliefs”.
Protestantism must use the same method to expose Rome’s errors and pretensions. Down through the ages, said Dr Wylie, “the Man of Sin… has been piling assumption upon assumption, and prerogative upon prerogative, till at last, he raised himself to a height from which he looked down not only upon all churches, but upon all kings and kingdoms.” It is through the presentation of the truth by the Church of Christ that “that man of sin” shall be unmasked.