Confession # 4
Facts, stubborn facts, abound to show that the practice of confessing to ministers has often led to the grossest and most disgusting unmorality. A living writer has truly said, "There is no worse school of wickedness on earth, than the confessional. History testifies that for every offender whom the confessional has reclaimed - it has hardened thousands; for one it may have saved - it has destroyed millions."
The man who turns away from Christ to confess his sins to ministers, is like a man who chooses to live in prison when he may walk at liberty; or to starve and go in rags, in the midst of riches and plenty; or to cringe for favors at the feet of a servant, when he may go boldly to the Master and ask what he will.
A mighty and sinless High Priest is provided for him - and yet he prefers to employ the aid of mere fellow-sinners like himself! He is trying to fill his purse with rubbish - when he may have fine gold for the asking. He is insisting on lighting a candle - when he may enjoy the noonday light of God's sun!
If we love our souls, let us beware of giving to ministers the honor that belongs to Christ alone - He is the true High Priest of the Christians' profession. He ever lives to receive confessions, and to absolve sinners. Why should we turn away from Him to man? Above all, let us beware of the whole system of the Romish confessional.
~J. C. Ryle~
(continued with # 5)
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