The Ancient Witnesses

Chapter 8: The Fulfillment of Time • 273

“Not entirely,” admitted Father Greg, “there’s a passage in the book of Maccabees that teaches the doctrine.” “We Protestants don’t accept Maccabees as Scripture,” said Joseph. “What does the passage say?” I asked. “Judas Maccabeus was a Jewish hero who lived a couple of centuries before Christ,” explained Father Greg. “Some of his soldiers died in battle because of their idolatry, so he prayed for them and took up an offering to send to Jerusalem so they could be forgiven.” Joseph wagged his head, “You don’t really believe that forgiveness can be purchased, do you?” he asked. “I didn’t say that,” replied Father Greg. “I thought we were talking about purgatory,” I interjected. “We are,” Father Greg continued, “the sinful soldiers in Maccabees were unprepared to enter heaven, so they had to await purification.” “They had to pay for it!” said Joseph. “They couldn’t pay, they were dead,” said Father Greg. “But a payment was made,” I replied. “An offering was given on their behalf by a righteous man, what’s so bad about that?” said Father Greg, smiling. “But you don’t believe in purgatory, do you, Father Greg?” asked Cesar. “No,” admitted the priest, “but always be ready to argue your opponent’s view!”