Doctrinal Differences with Protestants Regarding Mediation and Intercession

presents the Orthodox position on mediation and intercession, explaining that the Protestant rejection of mediation arose as a historical reaction against Catholic practices, but went beyond biblical teaching and sound Church tradition.

⛪ Historical Background of the Protestant View

Protestantism emerged in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries as a protest movement and rejected any form of mediation between God and humanity, including the intercession of saints, priesthood, and even the role of the Church itself.

✝️ Christ as the Only Mediator in Redemption

His Holiness affirms that Christ is the only mediator in atonement and redemption, and no one can share this role. However, this does not abolish other forms of ministry-based and spiritual mediation established by God.

👥 Prophets and Apostles as Mediators

Scripture declares that prophets and apostles are mediators between God and people, delivering God’s word and calling for reconciliation, as the Apostle Paul states that they are ambassadors for Christ.

🏛 The Church as a Divinely Chosen Mediator

The Church is the means chosen by God to convey faith, teaching, and grace to humanity. Through it:

• Faith is received

• Baptism is granted

• God’s word is taught

• Repentance and forgiveness are obtained

✋ The Sacraments and the Role of the Church

God entrusted the Church with the administration of the sacraments:

• Baptism

• Forgiveness of sins

• Granting of the Holy Spirit

• Laying on of hands and sending servants

All of these are accomplished through the work of the Holy Spirit within the Church.

👨‍⚖️ Priesthood and Divine Stewardship

Priests are stewards of God’s mysteries, acting not by their own authority but as instruments of the Holy Spirit. Stewardship does not separate them from God, but makes them servants acting in His name.

🌿 The Biblical Logic

No one can believe without a preacher, and no one can preach unless he is sent. This clearly reveals the Church’s role as the legitimate mediator for proclaiming salvation and building God’s Kingdom on earth.

🌟 Conclusion

In Orthodox theology, mediation and intercession do not diminish Christ’s work, but proclaim its continuation within the Church. Rejecting mediation is, in essence, rejecting a divine order established by God for humanity’s salvation.

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