MCQ Quiz: Of Reformation (John Milton)

Explanation: "Prelatical" refers to the episcopal hierarchy, specifically critiquing the Church of England's structure and the power of bishops.

Explanation: Milton views tradition as a potential barrier to reform, arguing that undue reverence for past practices can hinder progress and the return to genuine Christian principles.

Explanation: "Of Reformation" critiques the Church of England and advocates for its reform, reflecting Milton's Puritan beliefs and his desire for a more sincere and devout practice of Christianity.

Explanation: Milton criticizes the bishops for corruption and greed, arguing that they have strayed from the spiritual path and instead seek power and wealth.

Explanation: Milton proposes returning to scriptural authority as the solution for overcoming challenges to church reform, emphasizing the importance of the Bible as the guide for religious practice and belief.

Explanation: Milton views the scriptures as the ultimate authority, arguing that church reform should be guided by the teachings and principles found in the Bible.

Explanation: Milton frequently uses Biblical allusions, referencing scripture to support his arguments for church reform and to give his critique a moral and theological foundation.

Explanation: Milton views the potential for reform within the Church of England as possible but requiring significant changes, particularly in leadership and adherence to scripture.

Explanation: Milton identifies the departure from biblical teachings as the root cause of the church's problems, arguing that this has led to corruption and the loss of spiritual direction.

Explanation: Milton frequently references Christ as the ultimate example of true piety and reform, using His teachings and actions as the model for church reform.

Explanation: Milton views the people as active participants in church reform, emphasizing the importance of public involvement and scrutiny in the process of reforming religious institutions.

Explanation: Milton critiques the mutual support between the Church of England and the monarchy, arguing that this relationship upholds their respective powers at the expense of true spiritual leadership and reform.

Explanation: Milton argues that moral integrity is crucial in religious leadership, believing that leaders should embody the virtues they preach for effective church reform.

Explanation: Milton references Martin Luther and John Calvin, key figures of the Protestant Reformation, highlighting their contributions to religious reform and their challenge to the Catholic Church.

Explanation: Milton uses the analogy of a sick body needing healing to describe the church's need for reform, emphasizing the idea that the church is unhealthy and requires spiritual and moral rejuvenation.

Explanation: Milton advocates for the removal of corrupt clergy from power, believing that reforming the church requires eliminating those who misuse their positions for personal gain.

Explanation: Milton provides context from the Protestant Reformation to support his arguments, referencing this period as a crucial time of religious questioning and change that should inspire current reforms.

Explanation: Milton argues that the church's desire for wealth and power corrupts the purity of the gospel, detracting from its spiritual message and leading to moral decay.

Explanation: Milton suggests that the consequence of the church's corruption is spiritual decay among the populace, as the true message of Christianity is obscured by greed and power.

Explanation: Milton argues that sincere faith and practice are essential for true church reform, emphasizing a return to the spiritual roots of Christianity over institutional power.