Catholic teachings on the Virgin Mary, including her Immaculate Conception, perpetual virginity, Assumption, and role as Co-Redemptrix, have long been subjects of theological divergence between Catholicism and Protestantism. Protestant analysis of these doctrines typically emphasizes adherence to scriptural authority (sola Scriptura), arguing that many of the Catholic Church’s teachings about Mary extend beyond what is written in the Bible.
The doctrine of the Immaculate Conception, which holds that Mary was conceived without original sin, is not found in Scripture. Protestants argue that this teaching conflicts with biblical passages emphasizing the universal sinfulness of humanity (Romans 3:23, Psalm 51:5). The Catholic justification for this doctrine, often linked to Luke 1:28 and Mary being “full of grace,” is viewed by Protestants as a misinterpretation, not indicative of her sinlessness from conception.
The Assumption of Mary, the belief that Mary was taken body and soul into heaven, lacks direct scriptural evidence. Protestant theology, which heavily relies on biblical support for doctrinal beliefs, finds no basis for this doctrine in Scripture. The absence of any New Testament accounts or teachings related to Mary’s bodily assumption is seen as a significant omission if this event had occurred.
Protestants typically reject the doctrine of Mary’s perpetual virginity, arguing that the Bible implies Jesus had biological siblings (Mark 6:3, Matthew 13:55-56). The interpretation of terms like “brothers” and “sisters” of Jesus as either cousins or children from a previous marriage of Joseph is seen as a stretch from a plain reading of the text.
The Catholic view of Mary as Co-Redemptrix, participating in the redemption process with Jesus, is particularly controversial in Protestant theology. Protestants assert that this title detracts from the sufficiency and uniqueness of Christ’s redemptive work (1 Timothy 2:5, Hebrews 10:10). The New Testament places exclusive emphasis on Jesus as the Redeemer, with no role for Mary in the actual process of redemption.
While Protestantism does not embrace the Catholic doctrines surrounding Mary, it maintains respect for her as the mother of Jesus and a model of faithfulness and obedience to God (Luke 1:38). Protestants acknowledge her blessed status (Luke 1:48), but this acknowledgment does not extend to veneration or the attribution of roles and attributes not substantiated by Scripture.
In conclusion, the Protestant analysis of Catholic teachings on the Virgin Mary highlights a fundamental difference in approach to doctrine: the reliance on Scripture as the sole authority. While respecting Mary as an important biblical figure, Protestantism does not support the additional doctrines developed by the Catholic Church, emphasizing a return to scriptural teachings and the centrality of Christ in redemption.
Evidence That Demands a Verdict: Life-Changing Truth for a Skeptical World - Josh and Sean McDowell
Little Pilgrim's Progress (Illustrated Edition) - Helen L. Taylor