Excerpt from Historical Theology, Vol. 2: A Review of the Principal Doctrinal Discussions in the Christian Church Since the Apostolic Age WE now proceed to the consideration of the important subject of Justification and it will be proper to enter somewhat more fully into the investigation of this topic than those which we have hitherto examined. This was the great fundamental distinguish ing doctrine of the Reformation, and was regarded by all the Reformers as of primary and paramount importance. The lead ing charge which they adduced against the Church of Rome was, that she had corrupted and perverted the doctrine of Scripture upon this subject, in a way that was dangerous to the souls of men; and it was mainly by the exposition, enforcement, and application of the true doctrine of God's word in regard to it, that they assailed and overturned the leading doctrines and practices of the Papal system. There is 'no subject which possesses more of intrinsic importance than attaches to this one, and there is none with respect to which the Reformers were more thoroughly harmonious in their sentiments. All who believe that the truth on this subject had been greatly corrupted in the Church of Rome, and that the doctrine taught by the Reformers respect ing it was scriptural and true, must necessarily regard the restora tion of sound doctrine upon this point as the most important service which the Reformers were made instrumental by God in rendering to the church. About the Publisher Forgotten Books publishes hundreds of thousands of rare and classic books. Find more at www.forgottenbooks.com This book is a reproduction of an important historical work. Forgotten Books uses state-of-the-art technology to digitally reconstruct the work, preserving the original format whilst repairing imperfections present in the aged copy. In rare cases, an imperfection in the original, such as a blemish or missing page, may be replicated in our edition. We do, however, repair the vast majority of imperfections successfully; any imperfections that remain are intentionally left to preserve the state of such historical works.