89. "Since the pope, by his pardons, seeks the salvation of souls rather than money, why does he suspend the indulgences and pardons granted heretofore, since these have equal efficacy?" [24]
90. To repress these arguments and scruples of the laity by force alone, and not to resolve them by giving reasons, is to expose the Church and the pope to the ridicule of their enemies, and to make Christians unhappy.
91. If, therefore, pardons were preached according to the spirit and mind of the pope, all these doubts would be readily resolved; nay, they would not exist.
92. Away, then, with all those prophets who say to the people of Christ, "Peace, peace," and there is no peace! [Ezek. 13:10]
93. Blessed be all those prophets who say to the people of Christ, "Cross, cross," and there is no cross![25]
94. Christians are to be exhorted that they be diligent in following Christ, their Head, through penalties, deaths, and hell;
95. And thus be confident of altering into heaven rather through many tribulations, than through the assurance of peace. [Acts 14:22]
FOOTNOTES
[1] Matt. 4:17. Greek, µeta??e?te; English "repent"; German Bussetun. The Latin and German versions may also be rendered, "Do penance"; the Greek, on the other hand, can only mean "Repent."
[2] The Roman theology distinguishes between the "guilt" and the "penalty" of sin. See Introduction, p.19.