In this final segment on the refutation of purgatory, John Calvin dismantles the "invincible support" that his opponents claim to find in 1 Corinthians 3. Calvin masterfully reinterprets the "fire" of the Apostle Paul, arguing that it is not a post-mortem purification for souls, but the discerning trial of the Holy Spirit testing the purity of doctrine in the Church. We also explore Calvin's critique of the argument from tradition—specifically the 1,300-year history of praying for the dead. He reveals how these practices were often well-intentioned but misguided concessions to grief and cultural custom, rather than biblical mandates. It is a powerful reminder that the only rest for the dead is found in Christ, and the only rule for our prayers is found in the Word of God.

Today’s Readings:

John Calvin — Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book 3, Chapter 5 (Sections 9–10)

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