ur the following words:
'Heretics, schismatics, and rebels to our said lord (the pope), or his
aforesaid successors, I will to my utmost persecute and oppose.' "(1001)

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. 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 many 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 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 upon every side. See the increasing
number of her churches and chapels in Protestant countries. Look at the
popularity of her colleges and seminaries in America, so widely patronized
by Protestants. Look at the growth of ritualism in England, and the
frequent defections to the ranks of the Catholics. 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 need to be aroused to resist the advances of this most dangerous
foe to civil and religious liberty.

Many Protestants suppose that the Catholic religion is unattractive, and
that its worship is a dull, meaningless 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 Roman Church is a most
impressive cer