The Evangelical Stance on the Veneration of Mary and the Saints
> The veneration of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the saints has been a longstanding practice in various Christian traditions, particularly within Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy. However, evangelical Christianity takes a different stance on this issue, emphasizing the sole mediation of Christ and the direct relationship between the believer and God.
This article will explore the evangelical perspective on the veneration of Mary and the saints, supported by scriptural references, quotes from respected theologians, and relevant resources.
Evangelical Honoring vs. Veneration
Evangelicals hold Mary and the saints in high regard for their examples of faith and devotion. They respect Mary as the chosen mother of Jesus and honor the saints for their contributions to the Christian faith and their lives of exemplary service. However, evangelicals draw a clear distinction between honoring these figures and venerating them in a way that could detract from the glory due to God alone.
Veneration, which often includes practices such as praying to Mary and the saints for intercession, is not a part of evangelical worship or devotion. Evangelicals believe that such practices can inadvertently elevate Mary and the saints to a status that blurs the line between creature and Creator, potentially leading to a form of idolatry.
Christ Alone as Mediator
A key scriptural reference that informs the evangelical stance on this issue is 1 Timothy 2:5, which states, “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.” Evangelicals interpret this passage to mean that Jesus Christ is the only mediator needed to approach God, and thus, they do not seek the intercession of Mary or the saints.
The evangelical view is that Christ’s role as mediator is unique and sufficient, making any other mediators both unnecessary and unbiblical. The finished work of Christ on the cross and his resurrection are seen as the ultimate acts of intercession for humanity. Therefore, evangelicals direct all prayer, worship, and requests for intercession to God through Jesus Christ.
Billy Graham, a prominent evangelical figure, encapsulated this sentiment when he said, “While we respect Mary and the saints, we do not pray to them or seek their intercession.” This quote reflects the evangelical commitment to a Christ-centered faith that acknowledges the roles of Mary and the saints but does not attribute to them the divine role reserved for Jesus.
Theological and Practical Implications
The evangelical stance on the veneration of Mary and the saints has both theological and practical implications. Theologically, it affirms the sufficiency of Christ’s atonement and the believer’s direct access to God through faith in Jesus. Practically, it shapes evangelical piety and devotion, focusing on a personal relationship with God and the study of Scripture as the primary means of spiritual growth and guidance.
This perspective also influences the evangelical approach to prayer, emphasizing that all prayers should be directed to God in the name of Jesus, without the need for additional intercessors. Evangelicals believe that every believer has the privilege and responsibility to come boldly before the throne of grace, as stated in Hebrews 4:16.
Conclusion
In conclusion, evangelicals honor Mary and the saints for their faith and dedication but do not venerate them or seek their intercession. The evangelical position is rooted in a commitment to the unique and all-sufficient mediation of Jesus Christ, as affirmed by Scripture. This stance fosters a direct and personal relationship with God, centered on Christ as the sole mediator.
For those seeking to delve deeper into the evangelical perspective on Mary, “Mary—Another Redeemer?” by James R. White provides a thorough examination of the biblical and theological arguments against the veneration of Mary. This resource can offer valuable insights into the nuances of evangelical beliefs regarding Mary and the saints and their place in Christian devotion.
