The fundamental Roman error is the transference of this image, this imaginary doctrine, into the eternal realms. The doctrine negates the atonement, empties the gospel, encourages antinomianism, institutionalizes a system of works, and opens the door to work upon work of supererogation. The failure to preach the true nature of the gospel results in the creation of untold spiritual miseries. They labor in spiritual solidarity with the dead through senseless devotions, masses, candles, prayers, pilgrimages, and rites, hoping to transfer merit to those who are either beyond hope, or who are presently in bliss. And they are unaware, that bankrupt in their own sins, they have no merit to transfer.
Purgatory produces a gospel of works extended into the afterlife.
Not content to live a life of Semi-Pelagian heresy in this world, they extend it into the next. The moment a coin in the coffer pings, out from purgatory a sinner springs. No wonder Luther penned his angry theses. Purgatory must lead men away from God because it leads men away from the cross. But do not let it be said that we are not imaginative men.