Question

question 1-9
which statement describes a difference between the beliefs of catholics and protestants?
only protestants promise faith alone to achieve eternal salvation.
only protestants believe in the virgin mary as a channel of communication to god.
only catholics denies the role of the pope and clergy as mediators of god.
only catholics deny the selling of indulgences to gain forgiveness of sin.

Explanation:

• Option 1: Protestants believe in salvation by faith alone (sola fide), while Catholics believe in a combination of faith and good works. So this option is correct.
• Option 2: Catholics believe in the Virgin Mary as a channel of communication to God (e.g., through prayers to Mary), Protestants generally do not. So this option is incorrect.
• Option 3: Catholics believe in the role of the Pope and clergy as mediators (e.g., in the sacraments), Protestants (especially those in the Reformed tradition) have a more “priesthood of all believers” view and reject the Pope's authority. So this option is incorrect.
• Option 4: Protestants were the ones who strongly opposed the selling of indulgences (a key issue in the Reformation), not Catholics. So this option is incorrect.

Answer:

Only Protestants promise faith alone to achieve eternal salvation.