IMO you're both correct.
If a resistor is opening up, a jumper across will resolve the discontinuity. It will run fine.
However, the ballast resistor does help protect the points and the coil. Point everyone knows. Coil will run hot, especially at low speed.
With electronic boxes, some also used the ballast, or second ballast resistor, to reduce the current to the box.
Same deal with Ford & AMC through to EEC IV (aka TFI).
GM's electronic was different in that the HEI module regulates the current flow both internally and to the coil.