Purgatory is the belief that there exists a place after death where people are purged from their sin through suffering. After a period of time corresponding to the suffering necessary for the sins committed, the person is then set free and enters heaven. Purgatory is a doctrine enforced by the Roman Catholic church and requires financial gifts or services rendered to the church so that prayers by the priests, and masses provided by relatives or friends in behalf of the deceased can shorten, alleviate or eliminate the sojourn of the soul in purgatory.

Christians should view purgatory as being heretical doctrine rejected by the Word of God. It reflects an intended disregard for the atonement of Christ as well as adding insult to the finished work of the cross. The error of purgatory is the teaching that we might redeem ourselves and remove sin through our sufferings.

On the cross Jesus said, "It is finished " (John 19:30).

This was an accounting term which meant a debt was paid in full. Since the payment for our sins was paid in full on the cross, then how could purgatory be a reality... especially when the scriptures don't mention it and even contradict it?

Purgatory is false teaching that breads a false hope. The Word of God presents Jesus Christ, the only way and means of Salvation.

Sincerely, Dr. Arthur Belanger

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