Question:  A Catholic friend insists that a purgatory exists through which the saved are purified before coming into the presence of the Lord.  Your comment please.

            Joe

Answer:  Dear Joe,

            There is no biblical evidence for or against a “place” like purgatory – because of the lack of evidence, it is generally best not to assume that such a place/condition exists.  The idea of such a place has led to the idea that the living can have some influence upon those waiting in purgatory.  The idea that the works of humans has influence upon those waiting in purgatory, and the idea that the works of humans has influence upon their own or someone else’s salvation is unbiblical.  Salvation is by grace through faith, and that not of ourselves, lest anyone should boast (see Ephesians 2:8-10).

            In Christ,

            Greg Albrecht