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Cover of "Nothing Between": The Special Doctrines Vindicated at the Reformation as Bearing upon the Spiritual Life of the Church

"Nothing Between": The Special Doctrines Vindicated at the Reformation as Bearing upon the Spiritual Life of the Church

Written by Edward Hoare

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Church of England

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About this book

"Nothing Between" by Edward Hoare is a theological discourse presented as a paper read at a conference of the Craven Evangelical Union, likely written in the late 19th century. This work is a reflection on the special doctrines of the Reformation and their significance for the spiritual life of the Church, specifically highlighting the conflict between the teachings of Protestantism and Roman Catholicism. The primary focus of the book is an exploration of salvation, examining how various doctrines interconnect to assert that nothing should mediate between an individual and God. In this paper, Hoare articulates a clear critique of Roman Catholic doctrine, emphasizing key theological points that underpin the Reformation, such as the sufficiency of Scriptures, justification by faith, the spirituality of sacraments, and the completeness of Christ's propitiation for sin. He argues against the necessity of intermediaries like priests and sacramental actions, asserting that believers can have direct access to God. Hoare passionately underscores that these foundational truths lead to a profound understanding that there is "nothing between" the believer and God, thereby allowing for a personal and unmediated relationship with Christ.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in "Nothing Between": The Special Doctrines Vindicated at the Reformation as Bearing upon the Spiritual Life of the Church, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • advanced
  • Theological
  • Assertive
  • Instructive

Edward Hoare's "Nothing Between" is a late 19th-century theological discourse presented at the Craven Evangelical Union, meticulously vindicating the special doctrines of the Reformation. The work critically examines the conflict between Protestantism and Roman Catholicism, asserting that salvation is achieved through unmediated access to God. Hoare systematically explores core Reformation tenets—such as the sufficiency of Scriptures, justification by faith, the spirituality of sacraments, and the completeness of Christ's propitiation—to argue against the necessity of ecclesiastical intermediaries. The central thesis passionately underscores that these foundational truths lead to a profound understanding that there is "nothing between" the believer and God, fostering a direct and personal relationship with Christ and revitalizing the Church's spiritual life.

“Nothing should mediate between an individual and God.”

Key themes

Direct Access to God
This is the central, unifying theme of the entire discourse. Hoare argues passionately that the core tenets of the Reformation collectively establish that believers can and should have an unmediated, personal relationship with God through Christ, without the need for priestly intermediaries, elaborate rituals, or human traditions. This theme is presented as the cornerstone of true spiritual life and freedom.
Sola Scriptura (Sufficiency of Scriptures)
Hoare vigorously defends the Protestant principle that the Bible alone is the ultimate and sufficient authority for faith and practice. He argues against the Roman Catholic emphasis on tradition and the teaching authority of the Church, asserting that Scripture provides all necessary guidance for salvation and spiritual life, allowing individuals to directly understand God's will.
Sola Fide (Justification by Faith Alone)
This theme explores the Reformation doctrine that salvation is received solely through faith in Jesus Christ, apart from human works or merit. Hoare contrasts this with the Roman Catholic understanding that incorporates sacraments and good works into the process of justification, arguing that relying on anything other than faith in Christ's finished work compromises the directness of one's relationship with God.

Worth discussing

How does Hoare define 'nothing between' the believer and God, and what are the practical implications for spiritual life?

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