Today’s Readings Podcast Description

Can the modern Papacy claim the ancient privileges of the Roman See when it no longer possesses even the marks of a true church or a true bishop? In these concluding sections of the chapter, Calvin presses the argument to its sharpest point. The high claims of universal jurisdiction, infallibility, and exemption from all judgment rest on forged decretals and recent fabrications, not on the testimony of the early councils or the practice of Gregory. Gregory himself anathematized the title of universal bishop and refused the language of command over his fellow bishops. Yet even if all the ancient privileges were granted, Calvin asks, what of them if Rome is no longer a church and the pontiff is no longer a bishop? The office requires the preaching of the Word, the administration of the sac ...