Recognizing the catholic/universal church
This article clarifies the Reformed understanding of the catholic (universal) church as God's elect believers spiritually united across denominations and locations, distinguished from both Roman Catholic institutional claims and modern universalist theology. Mahtani emphasizes proper confessional language and warns against the idolatry of elevating the church above God, drawing on the Belgic Confession, Heidelberg Catechism, and the Apostles' Creed.
This article is not about a church denomination. It is not about a false institution called the Roman Catholic Church, which preaches popish heresy, administers idolatrous sacraments, and punishes those who live according to truth. Neither is this article about false churches today who mean by the term "universal" that God loves and ultimately saves every single person, no matter their religion. By catholic or universal church, I do not refer to these unfaithful organizations, nor do I refer to...
Full article available on sb.rfpa.org