Meaning: The quote you provided is from William Ames, a 17th-century English philosopher and Protestant theologian. In this quote, Ames is asserting that the church is not absolutely necessary as an object of faith, even for people living in his time. He supports this claim by referencing Abraham and other prophets, stating that they gave assent to things revealed to them by God without the intervening help of the church. This statement reflects Ames' perspective on the relationship between individual faith and the institutional church, as well as his understanding of the role of the church in the Christian faith.

Ames' assertion that the church is not absolutely necessary as an object of faith is a significant departure from the traditional Catholic doctrine, which emphasizes the centrality of the church in the life of a believer. In Catholic teaching, the church is considered the visible sign and instrument of God's grace and salvation, and participation in the sacraments administered by the church is seen as essential for salvation. However, in the Protestant tradition to which Ames belonged, there has been a longstanding debate about the nature and role of the church in relation to individual faith and salvation.

One key aspect of Ames' argument is his reference to Abraham and the prophets, who are revered figures in both the Jewish and Christian traditions. By highlighting their faith and relationship with God apart from the institutional church, Ames is suggesting that individual faith and divine revelation can exist independently of the church. This viewpoint aligns with the Protestant emphasis on the direct relationship between the believer and God, without the need for an intermediary such as the church hierarchy or sacramental system.

Ames' perspective also reflects broader theological debates within Protestantism regarding the authority of the church and the interpretation of scripture. In the Protestant Reformation, figures such as Martin Luther and John Calvin challenged the authority of the Catholic Church and emphasized the primacy of scripture as the ultimate source of religious authority. This emphasis on individual interpretation of scripture and direct communion with God contributed to a reevaluation of the role of the institutional church in the life of the believer.

The quote also raises questions about the nature of faith and the role of religious institutions in shaping and sustaining faith. Ames seems to be suggesting that faith is ultimately a personal and internal matter, independent of external institutions such as the church. This perspective resonates with the idea of "sola fide," or "faith alone," which is a central tenet of Protestant theology, emphasizing the belief that individuals are justified by faith in God's grace, rather than by any works or institutions.

In summary, William Ames' quote challenges traditional views on the necessity of the church as an object of faith, particularly within the context of Protestant theology and the broader Protestant Reformation. His assertion reflects a broader reevaluation of the role of the institutional church in relation to individual faith and the authority of scripture. Ames' perspective opens up important theological questions about the nature of faith, the role of religious institutions, and the individual's relationship with God.