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The Unfinished Reformation: What Unites and Divides Catholics and Protestants After 500 Years
The Unfinished Reformation offers a thoughtful look at the key theological and sociological differences between Catholicism and Protestantism. In 1517 a Catholic monk nailed a list of grievances on the door of a church in Germany and launched a revolution in the history of Christianity. That monk was Martin Luther, and the revolution was the Protestant Reformation. What followed this upheaval was flexibility and innovation in the church but also religious instability and division, particularly among the Catholic and Protestant fault line. Five hundred years later, there continues to be unresolved issues between the Protestant and Catholic churches. So, Gregg Allison and Chris Castaldo ask... is the Reformation really finished? The Unfinished Reformation is a brief and clear guide to the key points of unity and divergence between the two largest branches of Christianity. Fundamental differences in doctrine and practice are addressed in Written in an accessible and informative style, The Unfinished Reformation provokes thought about Christian beliefs, equips you for healthy conversations with those on "the other side of the divide", and encourages fruitful discussion about the gospel of Jesus Christ.
176 pages, Paperback
Published September 13, 2016
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About the author
Gregg R. Allison
36 books61 followersGregg R. Allison (PhD, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) is professor of Christian theology at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is secretary of the Evangelical Theological Society, a book review editor for the Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society, an elder at Sojourn Community Church, and a theological strategist for Sojourn Network. Allison has taught at several colleges and seminaries, including Western Seminary in Portland, Oregon, and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois, and is the author of numerous books, including Historical Theology: An Introduction to Christian Doctrine, Sojourners and Strangers: The Doctrine of the Church, and Roman Catholic Theology and Practice: An Evangelical Assessment.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
February 18, 2019
3.5/5/ I was pleasantly surprised by this handy reference guide that compares and contrasts key doctrinal distinctives between Roman Catholics and Protestants regarding major areas such as biblical authority and ecclesiology. This is an especially good introduction to those who don't know the key theological tenets that separates these two branches of Christianity. My major qualm is that the authors appear to come from a Calvinist stance; they often acknowledge that "other Protestants" differ from their view (and in some cases are closer to the Catholic position such as Arminians and Wesleyans on the question of whether believers can fall away) but they consistently hold to a Calvinist standard. A second edition would benefit from an Arminian, Wesleyan and/or Anabaptist contributor who could give a louder voice to these positions. The book also focuses exclusively on the Catholic catechism without exploring the theological considerations of major Catholic thinkers such as Yves Congar and Henri de Lubac.
October 12, 2021
As a Catholic I thought this was one of the most fair treatments I've seen of Catholic theology by Protestant authors. There were parts I disagreed with or didn't think were totally accurate but, as a whole, I would recommend this to someone well before most other books on the subject from the Protestant camp.
June 24, 2022
A concise and accurate description of the differences (and similarities) between Catholics and Protestants. A quick easy read that will leave you with more knowledge than when you started.
May 2, 2025
This was a fascinating read! The authors lay out very clearly and concisely the key differences between Catholic and Protestants throughout the book.
The main annoyance I had was that they always argue in favor of the Protestant view, even though the thesis of the book is to answer the question, “Is the Reformation finished?” not “Who is on the right side of the Reformation?” I’d be less annoyed by this if they made it clear that defending the Protestant perspective was a central point of the book; instead, they often presume that their view is obviously the correct one. I wish they would have had the humility to acknowledge any “errors” of Protestantism instead of only attacking the Catholic doctrines they personally disagree with. However, I appreciate that their Protestant perspective allows them to articulate with great clarity Catholic concepts that Protestants often find hard to grasp.
One thing I really appreciate is how the authors make a clear effort to call Protestants and Catholics to see one another as members of the same family and engage in graceful and intentional discussion as we both go forward as faithful in an increasingly secular world. 4/5 ⭐️
The main annoyance I had was that they always argue in favor of the Protestant view, even though the thesis of the book is to answer the question, “Is the Reformation finished?” not “Who is on the right side of the Reformation?” I’d be less annoyed by this if they made it clear that defending the Protestant perspective was a central point of the book; instead, they often presume that their view is obviously the correct one. I wish they would have had the humility to acknowledge any “errors” of Protestantism instead of only attacking the Catholic doctrines they personally disagree with. However, I appreciate that their Protestant perspective allows them to articulate with great clarity Catholic concepts that Protestants often find hard to grasp.
One thing I really appreciate is how the authors make a clear effort to call Protestants and Catholics to see one another as members of the same family and engage in graceful and intentional discussion as we both go forward as faithful in an increasingly secular world. 4/5 ⭐️
June 15, 2022
Super helpful and clear-cut summary of similarities and differences between Catholic and Protestant beliefs, definitely an enjoyable and pretty quick read.
October 9, 2016
I want to recommend this book because it sets out on an extremely difficult task of synthesizing Protestant and Catholic doctrine and dogma, determining where they converge, and where they do not. But I ultimately cannot recommend it based on their synthesis of Catholic Theology. While almost exclusively using the Roman Catholic Catechism as a source of theology they miss the last 50 years or so of Catholic and Protestant dialogue and the resulting declarations and upholding them in the same light.
While they understand the Catholic declarations they seem to miss point of Catholic theology. They never recount what has been previously said but slowly and methodically reform, while still affirming past councils and statements. That is to say they don't seem to affirm that the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification has has much weight as it really does, nor do they think the Anathemas thrown have been rescinded. In truth they have not 'been rescinded' but that they do not apply to the Common Understanding set out in the Joint Declaration.
In all I do think it is worth the read but it seems to fall short of gracefully comparing the Catholic teaching to Protestant teaching.
While they understand the Catholic declarations they seem to miss point of Catholic theology. They never recount what has been previously said but slowly and methodically reform, while still affirming past councils and statements. That is to say they don't seem to affirm that the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification has has much weight as it really does, nor do they think the Anathemas thrown have been rescinded. In truth they have not 'been rescinded' but that they do not apply to the Common Understanding set out in the Joint Declaration.
In all I do think it is worth the read but it seems to fall short of gracefully comparing the Catholic teaching to Protestant teaching.
May 7, 2017
An easy read on what unites and divides Catholics and Protestants. Highly recommend for anyone interested in understanding the difference between Catholics and Protestants at a layperson level.
October 25, 2017
Good resource
A short, clear, and quick read. Does an excellent job presenting in what ways modern day Protestants and Catholics are similar and different.
A short, clear, and quick read. Does an excellent job presenting in what ways modern day Protestants and Catholics are similar and different.
January 22, 2025
Informative, though not as impartial as I had hoped.
February 5, 2025
Gregg Allison is unstoppable. This brief overview prepared me so well for his Roman Catholic Theology and Practice: An Evangelical Assessment.
September 9, 2017
This a good overview of the similarities and differences between Protestantism and Catholicism.
The authors begin by point out that there are two fundamental issues that separate Protestants and Catholics: The nature of authority and salvation.
They identify ten commonalities that Catholics and Protestants share: "1) Their doctrine of the Trinity; 2) The Nature of God; 3) God's revealing of Himself through both general and special revelation; 4) The Person of Jesus; 5) Jesus' Saving Work; 6) The Nature of the Holy Spirit; 7) The Nature of Human Beings; 8) God's Initiation of Salvation; 9) God makes us His people; 10) The Living Hope.
They then identify 6 differences between Catholics and Protestants: 1) Protestants believe that the Bible alone is their authority whereas Catholics look equally to the Bible and Tradition; 2) They differ regarding how humanity reflects the image of God; 3) Protestants believe that the Catholic understanding of original sin fails to account or the total devastation of human nature; 4) Protestants reject various Catholic claims about Mary (i.e., immaculate conception; perpetual virginity; bodily assumption; Mediatrix etc.); 5) They differ regarding the nature of the church, the pope and the sacraments; 6) The differ how people are saved.
"For Protestants, people become children of God because Christ's righteousness is attributed to them (reckoned, credited to, or forensically imputed). Catholicism, by contrast, teaches that God ultimately accepts people because Christ's righteousness is poured into them (infused or imparted), thus making them actually righteous." (1729)
"Protestants insist that one is justified not as a result of moral virtue or by performing meritorious works (even with the assistance of divine grace) but rather by believing in the finished work of Christ by faith alone (sola fide). This justification excludes our works." (1744)
"Why are the excluded? Because even our best attempts at virtuous, meritorious works fall short of God's perfect standard. Instead, faith is the divinely appointed way in which sinners receive forgiveness because it does not rely upon ourselves but looks to the righteousness of another."
(1744)
"Why are people accepted by God? Catholics respond that 'grace infused through the sacraments enables them to do good works and become righteous in God's sight.' Protestants reply that it is 'because of the finished work of Christ on the cross, the righteousness of which is imputed to the believer, accessed by faith alone.' (1759)
Furthermore Catholics reject assurance of salvation whereas most Protestants affirm it.
And Catholics believe in Purgatory whereas Protestants reject it.
"The Catholic Church presents a deficient gospel. ... Catholic thought may actually deny the biblical gospel." (2052)
"The Reformation is not complete, but we have made progress in understanding the doctrinal and practical issues that separate us. Common efforts in combatting moral and social decline have brought us closer together. Still, significant theological and organizational divides remain. We recognize our differences and also our commonalities, concluding that while development in mutual awareness has occurred, key differences still persist. From our Protestant perspective, unless the Catholic Church undergoes radical reform according to the Scripture, the Reformation will necessarily continue." (2087)
(Note: I'm stingy with stars. For me 2 stars means a good book. 3 = Very good; 4 = Outstanding {only about 5% of the books I read merit this}; 5 = All time favorites {one of these may come along every 400-500 books})
The authors begin by point out that there are two fundamental issues that separate Protestants and Catholics: The nature of authority and salvation.
They identify ten commonalities that Catholics and Protestants share: "1) Their doctrine of the Trinity; 2) The Nature of God; 3) God's revealing of Himself through both general and special revelation; 4) The Person of Jesus; 5) Jesus' Saving Work; 6) The Nature of the Holy Spirit; 7) The Nature of Human Beings; 8) God's Initiation of Salvation; 9) God makes us His people; 10) The Living Hope.
They then identify 6 differences between Catholics and Protestants: 1) Protestants believe that the Bible alone is their authority whereas Catholics look equally to the Bible and Tradition; 2) They differ regarding how humanity reflects the image of God; 3) Protestants believe that the Catholic understanding of original sin fails to account or the total devastation of human nature; 4) Protestants reject various Catholic claims about Mary (i.e., immaculate conception; perpetual virginity; bodily assumption; Mediatrix etc.); 5) They differ regarding the nature of the church, the pope and the sacraments; 6) The differ how people are saved.
"For Protestants, people become children of God because Christ's righteousness is attributed to them (reckoned, credited to, or forensically imputed). Catholicism, by contrast, teaches that God ultimately accepts people because Christ's righteousness is poured into them (infused or imparted), thus making them actually righteous." (1729)
"Protestants insist that one is justified not as a result of moral virtue or by performing meritorious works (even with the assistance of divine grace) but rather by believing in the finished work of Christ by faith alone (sola fide). This justification excludes our works." (1744)
"Why are the excluded? Because even our best attempts at virtuous, meritorious works fall short of God's perfect standard. Instead, faith is the divinely appointed way in which sinners receive forgiveness because it does not rely upon ourselves but looks to the righteousness of another."
(1744)
"Why are people accepted by God? Catholics respond that 'grace infused through the sacraments enables them to do good works and become righteous in God's sight.' Protestants reply that it is 'because of the finished work of Christ on the cross, the righteousness of which is imputed to the believer, accessed by faith alone.' (1759)
Furthermore Catholics reject assurance of salvation whereas most Protestants affirm it.
And Catholics believe in Purgatory whereas Protestants reject it.
"The Catholic Church presents a deficient gospel. ... Catholic thought may actually deny the biblical gospel." (2052)
"The Reformation is not complete, but we have made progress in understanding the doctrinal and practical issues that separate us. Common efforts in combatting moral and social decline have brought us closer together. Still, significant theological and organizational divides remain. We recognize our differences and also our commonalities, concluding that while development in mutual awareness has occurred, key differences still persist. From our Protestant perspective, unless the Catholic Church undergoes radical reform according to the Scripture, the Reformation will necessarily continue." (2087)
(Note: I'm stingy with stars. For me 2 stars means a good book. 3 = Very good; 4 = Outstanding {only about 5% of the books I read merit this}; 5 = All time favorites {one of these may come along every 400-500 books})
July 19, 2023
Solid introductory work on the differences between Protestants and Rome. The authors are Gregg R. Allison who has written one of the standard works on Church History and Chris Castaldo who is a convert from Rome to Evangelical Protestant.
The book is short - only 135 pages of content not including notes and bibliography.
It is broken down into seven chapters.
The first two are on the fundamental commitments that differ and ten commonalities Protestants and Catholics agree on.
The next four chapters are short, but thoughtful summaries of the key differences between Protestants and Catholics: Scripture, tradition, interpretation, Imago Dei, Sin, Mary, Church, Sacraments and Salvation.
I found the section on the image of God particularly well done in describing and critiquing the notion that likeness and image are two different things in the Creation account. There are no good reasons to think that. Again - this seem to be largely from Aquinas who was a philosopher and not adept at hermeneutics. He and others had a tendency to attempt to dissect and tease out ideas from Scripture but were really inserting (eisegeting) into the text.
The final chapter is on the Gospel and what it means for both sides. I wasn't aware of the statistic that at the time of the publication of this work (2016) - around 16 million former Catholics had become Evangelicals. No doubt the number is higher today.
I do wish this had been a bit longer and gone into more detail. But overall I is a very good introduction to these issues and takes and irenic tone. Highly recommended.
The book is short - only 135 pages of content not including notes and bibliography.
It is broken down into seven chapters.
The first two are on the fundamental commitments that differ and ten commonalities Protestants and Catholics agree on.
The next four chapters are short, but thoughtful summaries of the key differences between Protestants and Catholics: Scripture, tradition, interpretation, Imago Dei, Sin, Mary, Church, Sacraments and Salvation.
I found the section on the image of God particularly well done in describing and critiquing the notion that likeness and image are two different things in the Creation account. There are no good reasons to think that. Again - this seem to be largely from Aquinas who was a philosopher and not adept at hermeneutics. He and others had a tendency to attempt to dissect and tease out ideas from Scripture but were really inserting (eisegeting) into the text.
The final chapter is on the Gospel and what it means for both sides. I wasn't aware of the statistic that at the time of the publication of this work (2016) - around 16 million former Catholics had become Evangelicals. No doubt the number is higher today.
I do wish this had been a bit longer and gone into more detail. But overall I is a very good introduction to these issues and takes and irenic tone. Highly recommended.
October 24, 2017
I'd make this a strong three stars, even 3-1/2 (if I could do that), but I can't go to four stars. The book is well written, engaging, and helpful. It's a pleasant, fast, and easy read, and in its relatively modest scope it offers a nice overview and brief summary of some of the most basic differences between the Roman Catholic Church and the breadth of "Protestantism." The authors' own predilections and biases are at times fairly obvious, which detracts somewhat from the usefulness of the book, though it is to be expected to some extent. I'm somewhat skeptical about the accuracy of some of the assertions, despite the fact that much of what is said concerning Roman Catholicism is supported with quotes from the Catechism of the Catholic Church. The problem is that there's very little context or nuance. I did find the book useful and worth the time it took to read. It's greatest weakness, however, is in its effort to group "Protestants" together vis-a-vis Rome, when, in fact, the "Protestants" in question differ among themselves in significant ways. The authors do not seem to have a clear grasp of Lutheran theology on key points, especially with respect to the Office of the Ministry, the Church, and the Sacraments. So, one must read with careful discernment.
June 5, 2021
This is a special book because the authors have made a point of working to be balanced, accurate, and respectful to both Catholics and protestants. Most of the books I have read try to write from one perspective and push hard for the reader to believe in that person‘s view while either staying silent or misrepresenting the other side. I value the authors’ ability to encourage us to understand something while also understanding that because you understand something doesn’t mean necessarily that you agree with it. The goal of this book is understanding rather than a hard sell on conversion. The authors try to present facts as well as the full range of beliefs on both sides of issues. By choosing to write this way, the authors help us to see that there are many areas where Catholics and protestants agree as well as some areas where we still are on opposite sides of a wide river.
I am not a seminary student or theologian. I am just someone who reads and likes to learn. This book has helped me sort out a lot of things that have confuse me over the years and has given me more confidence to talk with people who are Catholic as friends rather than mortal enemies.'
I am not a seminary student or theologian. I am just someone who reads and likes to learn. This book has helped me sort out a lot of things that have confuse me over the years and has given me more confidence to talk with people who are Catholic as friends rather than mortal enemies.'
September 6, 2017
In a post-Christian age where a plurality of religious options is presented as equally legitimate, it is perhaps more important than ever for Protestants and Catholics to engage with and seek to understand each another. At the same time, so many significant doctrinal differences continue to exist between the two great traditions that we have to maintain that the reformation is indeed "unfinished."
This book strikes a gracious tone at the beginning by presenting the commonalities between Catholics and Protestants, but also proceeds to explore the areas where disagreements have existed since Trent (papal authority, sacraments, tradition and Scripture, justification by faith alone, etc.). While this might not make Rome a false church, it definitely leaves it with a deficient Gospel.
This book strikes a gracious tone at the beginning by presenting the commonalities between Catholics and Protestants, but also proceeds to explore the areas where disagreements have existed since Trent (papal authority, sacraments, tradition and Scripture, justification by faith alone, etc.). While this might not make Rome a false church, it definitely leaves it with a deficient Gospel.
November 8, 2017
I can recommend this book only as a very general, simplistic overview. Biggest weakness, from my point of view, is failing to recognize broad diversity in Protestantism. Often the view that is labeled "The Protestant View" doesn't represent the views of large segments of Protestantism, often segments closer to Catholic view. Frequently, a nod is given to these other views, but failing to explore them is a significant weakness. In a word, the book is simply too 'evangelical'.
September 17, 2018
Une introduction aux principales différences entre catholicisme romain et protestantisme.
En soi, c'est un bon résumé, mais je m'attendais à quelque chose de plus substantiel. Le débat historique n'est pas abordé. Bref, quiconque est familier avec ce débat n'apprendra pas grand chose de ce livre mais pour celui qui est novice, c'est une bonne introduction.
Je recommande plutôt "Roman but not Catholic", sorti la même année, qui est bien plus solide.
En soi, c'est un bon résumé, mais je m'attendais à quelque chose de plus substantiel. Le débat historique n'est pas abordé. Bref, quiconque est familier avec ce débat n'apprendra pas grand chose de ce livre mais pour celui qui est novice, c'est une bonne introduction.
Je recommande plutôt "Roman but not Catholic", sorti la même année, qui est bien plus solide.
January 30, 2018
Allison and Castaldo have an fantastic job presenting both Catholic and Protestant doctrine in a extraordinarily concise manner. They did this all with a tone of charity and respect. I highly recommend this book if you are well versed in your theology (as it gets somewhat technical) and you have questions on the differences between our core doctrines.
May 14, 2018
This was a fantastic examination of the differences and similares between the Protestant and Catholic traditions of the church of Christ. It was written from the Protestant point of view, although from the former Catholics, but was done very kindly and respectfully. This book will help clear up many misunderstandings that Protestants have in relation to Rome.
March 14, 2018
I found this to be a very sympathetic, yet still Protestant-minded take on the whole Catholic/Protestant divide. Does a good job, I thought, of outlining the key similarities and differences between the two. I would recommend.
March 15, 2019
Helpful book with links to source documents.
This is a helpful and accessible volume. I appreciate the authors careful interaction with original documents. This is a great source to get the basics of the differences between Protestants and Catholics.
This is a helpful and accessible volume. I appreciate the authors careful interaction with original documents. This is a great source to get the basics of the differences between Protestants and Catholics.
May 29, 2020
Five stars for the information presented, 2 stars for the delivery. One of the authors is a seminary professor, and the writing shows. It's not engaging or engrossing, but perhaps it's not intended to be.
October 9, 2023
As a Protestant who knows little about catholic theology, I found this to be a helpful guide on the key commonalities and differences between our beliefs. It challenged false ideas I had about Catholic friends and family and helped me better understand where they are coming from.
June 5, 2025
I learned a lot from this book, and took copious notes throughout. There are a lot of differences between Catholic and Protestant beliefs, but the key belief in Jesus Christ as Lord and savior is more than enough to unite. Philippians 2:2
December 31, 2025
Well done book, great summary of what unites and divides Protestants and Catholics. Very fairly done, no straw man arguments here, and a great summary from both sides both historic and modern. If you are at all interested in this subject its a good one to add to your collection. Recommended.
October 16, 2022
managed to stay fairly unbiased, although the book was written for a protestant audience.
August 3, 2024
Popularizes and synthesizes all of Castaldo and Allison’s work.
May 11, 2023
Informative and easy to read. Clear and fair-minded presentation of both the similarities and disparities between protestants and catholics.
October 10, 2016
Gregg Allison & Chris Cataldo, The Unfinished Reformation. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2016, 171 pp. $16.99
The book market is beginning to see a rise of titles that deal with the Protestant Reformation as we move closer to the 500th anniversary of Luther’s bold move at Wittenberg. Gregg Allison and Chris Castaldo collaborate on a creative work that poses a critical question: “What unites and divides Catholics and Protestants after 500 years?” The authors are clear about the core of this controversy: “To whom did God give authority to define Christian faith? Did it belong to the institution of the Roman Catholic Church? Or was Scripture its own interpreter?” These questions serve as a sort of litmus test which will eventually help readers discover the truth.
Before discussing the most essential differences between the two traditions, The Unfinished Reformationhelps readers understand that there is, in fact, much that is shared in common. For instance there is essential agreement on the Trinity, the nature and revelation of God, the person and work of Christ, and the Holy Spirit, among other things.
But there are several distinct differences between Roman Catholics and Protestants; differences that have caused a serious rift between the two traditions. These differences are sharp and have prompted much debate throughout church history. The fundamental matters of authority and salvation are the key drivers which have led to severe disagreements between Catholics and Evangelicals. A brief summary of these differences includes the role of Scripture and tradition, the Roman Catholic belief of purgatory, prayer for the dead, penance, Mary’s role in the Christian life, and the role of the sacraments.
The difference that carries the most weight and theological controversy is Rome’s repudiation of justification by faith alone. The authors present the view of justification which was rediscovered by the Reformers and contrast it with the view that Rome embraced during the days of the Reformation; a view that is still maintained to this day. Allison and Castaldo state:
Unlike Catholic theology, in which the decisive verdict of God’s acceptance comes at the end of life following the accumulation of sacramental grace and merits, Protestants emphasize the decisive moment when people believe in the gospel apart from works. They are justified by faith alone, and their perfect standing before God results in new life as children of God, a life that then blossoms with virtuous fruit by the internal renewal of the Holy Spirit through the Word of God.
Allison and Castaldo conclude that the Reformation is finished in some respects. The historical accomplishment of the Reformation is undeniable and have charted a specific trajectory that will never be altered.
But more importantly, the authors note that the Reformation is still not complete. Theological differences remain intact: “From our perspective, unless the Catholic Church undergoes radical reform according to Scripture, the Reformation will necessarily continue.”
The Unfinished Reformation is a much-needed book as we move closer to the 500th anniversary of the original Protest. Both Roman Catholics and Protestants will benefit from Allison and Castaldo’s work. Their research is meticulous and they present their findings with grace and humility. My hope is this work will receive a wide readership and that the labors of the Reformers will carry on and lives will be enriched and transformed by the gospel of Jesus.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
The book market is beginning to see a rise of titles that deal with the Protestant Reformation as we move closer to the 500th anniversary of Luther’s bold move at Wittenberg. Gregg Allison and Chris Castaldo collaborate on a creative work that poses a critical question: “What unites and divides Catholics and Protestants after 500 years?” The authors are clear about the core of this controversy: “To whom did God give authority to define Christian faith? Did it belong to the institution of the Roman Catholic Church? Or was Scripture its own interpreter?” These questions serve as a sort of litmus test which will eventually help readers discover the truth.
Before discussing the most essential differences between the two traditions, The Unfinished Reformationhelps readers understand that there is, in fact, much that is shared in common. For instance there is essential agreement on the Trinity, the nature and revelation of God, the person and work of Christ, and the Holy Spirit, among other things.
But there are several distinct differences between Roman Catholics and Protestants; differences that have caused a serious rift between the two traditions. These differences are sharp and have prompted much debate throughout church history. The fundamental matters of authority and salvation are the key drivers which have led to severe disagreements between Catholics and Evangelicals. A brief summary of these differences includes the role of Scripture and tradition, the Roman Catholic belief of purgatory, prayer for the dead, penance, Mary’s role in the Christian life, and the role of the sacraments.
The difference that carries the most weight and theological controversy is Rome’s repudiation of justification by faith alone. The authors present the view of justification which was rediscovered by the Reformers and contrast it with the view that Rome embraced during the days of the Reformation; a view that is still maintained to this day. Allison and Castaldo state:
Unlike Catholic theology, in which the decisive verdict of God’s acceptance comes at the end of life following the accumulation of sacramental grace and merits, Protestants emphasize the decisive moment when people believe in the gospel apart from works. They are justified by faith alone, and their perfect standing before God results in new life as children of God, a life that then blossoms with virtuous fruit by the internal renewal of the Holy Spirit through the Word of God.
Allison and Castaldo conclude that the Reformation is finished in some respects. The historical accomplishment of the Reformation is undeniable and have charted a specific trajectory that will never be altered.
But more importantly, the authors note that the Reformation is still not complete. Theological differences remain intact: “From our perspective, unless the Catholic Church undergoes radical reform according to Scripture, the Reformation will necessarily continue.”
The Unfinished Reformation is a much-needed book as we move closer to the 500th anniversary of the original Protest. Both Roman Catholics and Protestants will benefit from Allison and Castaldo’s work. Their research is meticulous and they present their findings with grace and humility. My hope is this work will receive a wide readership and that the labors of the Reformers will carry on and lives will be enriched and transformed by the gospel of Jesus.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews