1472. To understand this doctrine and practice of the Church, it is necessary to understand that sin has a double consequence. Grave sin deprives us of communion with God and therefore makes us incapable of eternal life, the privation of which is called the “eternal punishment” of sin. On the other hand every sin, even venial, entails an unhealthy attachment to creatures, which must be purified either here on earth, or after death in the state called Purgatory. This purification frees one from what is called the “temporal punishment” of sin. These two punishments must not be conceived of as a kind of vengeance inflicted by God from without, but as following from the very nature of sin. A conversion which proceeds from a fervent charity can attain the complete purification of the sinner in such a way that no punishment would remain.83
Aprofunde seus conhecimentos
568. What are the expressions of the life of prayer?
522. How does one bear witness to the truth?
69. How do the soul and body form a unity in the human being?
189. How do the lay faithful participate in the priestly office of Christ?
538. In the Old Testament, what relationship do the king and the temple have to prayer?
379. What are the principal human virtues?
176. What is apostolic succession?
Acesse nossos estudos biblicos:
How important is Esther’s purpose and mission in Esther 4:14?
What does the Bible teach about transforming the body?
What is the significance of David’s song of thanksgiving to God in 2 Samuel 22?
What is the role of the law in the Old Testament, according to Galatians 3:10-14?
What are Daniel’s visions of the golden image and the four beasts?
How did Nehemiah deal with the division between rich and poor Jews in Nehemiah 5?
