1. From a Greek term meaning- to answer.
   refers to general defense, or justification of any systematic approach, system, or grouping.
2. Explanation of beliefs, or societal action.
3. Justifiaction via common grounds.
4. Creation, and building of common ground.
5. Defense of a position of the Catholic Faith, via logical argument, reason, and the communication, whether directly or figuratively- of the true sense of the Saviour’s world, and her substance, and those things pertaining to spiritual edification.

The purpose of Apologetics

With the rise of illogic, and the human idea, and repetition of original sin, in the love of self to the point of despising God, and the idea that human beings can define their own truth, and  not simply observe it,

 truthful; explanation of actual truths is vital to the cause of Truth. The war between God and his enemies is one between that which is, and always will be, and that which, in God’s eyes, will pass, and is but like illusion in our universe (”like rags” Isaiah chapter 50 verse 9; James chapter 1, verse 11; Luke chapter 21- world pass away; Daniel chapter 2 verse 44; I Peter chapter 1 verse 22-25). Therefore, the apologist, has the greatest task- that of proving actual reality against the onslaught of self-enlightenment, and self-righteousness- which has abandoned the ancient greek form of Actual logic, in pursuit of secularism, and “enlightenment”.

The danger of such lies in the abuse of human rights throughout the world, particularily by companies, governments and systems which are largely unchallenged in false ideas of tolerance, and the propagation of good public images. The spread of apathy, and of dangerous religious, and secular mentalities has further spread, in a dangerous way.

Methods of Apologetics

The finding, or creation of common ground is vital to apologetics. If one cannot find a direct defense in such common ground, then one can find the concept, finally, if one cannot convince the fellow absolutely on a fact, the use of sections of the other’s world-view in order to justify, simply the allowance of a belief or action is useful. Generally, apologetics can be in a three part argument, the strongest coming first- that of absolute, and logical, contextual proof within common ground, the second part- furthers it, should this not satisfy- so as to show the concept of the practice or belief within such common framework, and further the idea that it is a strong, if not absolute truth. In all, one must remember who else sees such conversation, and remember that any conversion, can take time, or be instant, yet that while illogical people may reject truth, those around see an argument, and one cannot afford to allow certain perceptions from outside, friendly, neutral, or combative viewers of an argument. Action, also is vital to apologetics, and consistency, yet not submission to manipulative practices of others.

 The order of the first two methods, should be determined by the situation, building on lesser arguments on concepts, (yet still never weak arguments) to stronger ones, can show other meaning to people, which is often vital to apologetics, when others have abandoned logical views. Strong arguments first, and then concepts in common ground, however are often just as, if not more useful, concerning circumstances, yet need to be used in a powerful way, and not appear to be withdrawals, so as to allow outsiders to see the logic of the Truth, over a combatent.

 Finally, an escape clause is useful, a section in the other’s beliefs, which allows one to hold to practices even should they not be convinced. This clause would ideally include such options as allowing for the furthering of dialog on one’s own terms.

This duty to defend general truths, and Catholic truth is furthered by the history of Catholicism, and by the name of God (Yahweh- “I Am Who I Am”). It requires humble, yet not submissive determination to show truth true, yet prudence, and actual action, in the right amount of humble boldness.

Love

Further, love aims at truth (I Corinthians chapter 13 verse 6), and we should pursue truth, and obey it(I peter chapter 1 verse 22).

Biblical Apologetics

The use of religious manuscripts for apologetics, is generally reserved for those who are either in need of explanations of actual faith, or those who believe in it to some degree.

This method can have use, however it shouild not purely be based in such, but arguments, such as bales method should be utilized, and the above listed method used.

The Bible was created by the church, and we believe it because of the church. Any religion in fact must admit that the bible they follow, they follow because it was handed on to them as Divine, by others who believe it so. The idea that this book is simply accepted by “true Christians” is illogical, as different groups have always believed different beliefs, and the perpetrators of such illogic, themselves often disagree with one another. Also, these people’s bibles are vastly different from those of early Christians, and cannot justify their beliefs in any reasonable historical substance.

As The church created the bible, the context in which it is accepted is that of the church, and it itself can never contradict the church, as it was created by the church. Here, reference to early belief, as recorded in the writings of early Christians can be useful, also- one does not have to only use their own arguments, but must remember to fit any argument into the actual situation, and use their own logic, yet never water down Catholic beliefs.

Other truths

Depending on the beliefs of others, one may also show other truths to be so, or different from another’s perspective, particularly via metaphor, and comparison with common practices or sections of another’s religion.

Natural Law

 This common law of morals, which is part of the makeup of man is useful, both in proving a common belief system, in that it is only damaged in areas that are commonly transgressed by specific individuals and societies, and in that all major religions, and all argument somehow recognises such, and appeals to such. Such law is a basis block of our legal system, and our version of what is just, unjust.

One may use the above method, examples, and parables to demonstrate similarities between practises and justify the beliefs of The Church. Often, with natural law, either showing the evidence for such, or talking conversationally about beliefs and similarities, can, via debate and conversation- show correct, Catholic beliefs, and practice.

1.  

   1. Demo- meaning people
      cracy- referring to power.

 The state of government, which claims to represent the needs of the people.

The concept of the people creating a ruler, is hardly new, nor was it subject to the Jewish, or Greek people in ancient times. Maccabees notes the Roman senate, of the then  republic of Rome in Jewish history (Catholic bible I Maccabees 8 verses 15, 16), and many a Jewish king was taken and placed in charge of the nation by the people. Also, Jesus himself, was nearly made king in a revolution by the Jews, but acted wisely so as not to be crowned in such a fashion. Democracy- is further a claim of “serving the people”; Jesus also notes this as the claim of the Pagan rulers of his time. Further, those very crowds, who had ushered Christ into Jerusalem, faced what disrupts almost all modern democracies, and chose Barrabas (Gospel according to Luke, Chapter 23,verse 17) over the very Son of God. Pilot, also- who wanted to do right, (Gospel according to Luke, Chapter 23, verse 21), and spare Christ, submitted to the crowd, who did evil (”²³ Pilate then gave his verdict: their demand was to be granted.
” Luke chapter 23 verse 23, New Jerusalem bible http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=42&bible_chapter=23).

Further, it is noted (Gospel according to John chapter 19 verses 10 and 11) that while authority is given personally by God, to rulers, that they often- for influence, fear, sin or greed- act in an ungodly manner with their power- hence the command- obey Just commands, yet obey God above men.

Democracy in history

The greatest terrors have often emerged from democratic systems. Caesar, conquered the Roman Democratic system, as Hitler, did the German one, and throughout the world, absolutely unworthy leaders lead “democracies”, even today. The “African” form of democracy is the most distressing, where, like in other places, like during the crucifixion, people are manipulated, and propoganderized by evil people. Media, news, and large companies- often aid one or other party, or are abused by militant rulers. Uneducated people are tricked into mobs, which rampage in different countries. Unions try to dictate to governments, and private armies help make democracy itself inadequate.

False democracy

In fact, many “democratic” nations are ruled, not by the most moral, but most scandalous leaders. Often, the mobs, which autocracy refused, are given the blood they bray for, and uneducated men are elected, having neither right, nor experience. Statistics are also manipulated, and campaigning, and tribalism, insure that candidates are more than often morally defunct, and at best- the better of the limited selections. Such rulers, further- aid those who empower them, and the democratic system is notorious for bribery and corruption, and often- democracies purposely misrepresent the views of their citizens.

More effective democratic systems

They best democracies have multiple hardly powerful factions, and a constant need to appeal to international nations, and gain the support of the people- who outnumber the mobs, who a fiction author- in Dear and Glorious Physician, by a Ms Caldwell, are credited with the decay of Rome.

Democratic Religion

In early church letters, the idea of democratic religion is slated- “the feet where the head is and the head at the feet”, it is considered even stupid. In fact, in the books of Samuel and Kings, and Chronicles, God frequently shows that people often choose the leaders he rejects, and reject the leaders he chooses. King Saul, was the likely candidate for king, but it is humble, unlikely Saintly King David, who is chosen.
Israel, who wanted a king, a human system of power- in this rejected God, as the Lord let Samuel know. It is further noted in Habakkuk chapter 2 verse 18 that those who make idols, rely on their own creation- which is futile. Democratic religion is hardly the answer to Christian truth.

Good Political systems

Ultimately, as Jesus notes of men- a fig tree has figs. A moral people are more likely to choose a moral leader, and educated people are likely to choose an educated leader, and an honest people are likely to aspire to honesty. One must note that Christ prayed on who his disciples were, as did the apostles- in succeeding Judas. Prayer, morality, and education- in logic- and discernment, are vital in creating adequate democracy. As it is noted, and as I note- Moral Law- is only not apparent to those who, or whose societies commonly break it. Like pain, recurring, conscience is ignored, but without evil influences, at least theoretically- democratic governance can be beneficial. As Jesus notes- treat your fellow man as you’d have him treat you- the people, if powerful enough, and wise enough- can often create good laws, however- the bad democrat is no way superior to the good autocrat. It is the body, which produces a head, or destroys the cancerous offshoot. A good democracy, with descerning people can produce a good leader, as much as any other system.

Definitions

Jesus

1. Meaning God saves, or Yahweh is Salvation.
2. It is the Latin translation of the Greek: “Iesous” which in turn translated the Hebrew name : of either “Jeshua, Joshua or Jehoshua“.
3. It refers both to Jesus mission, and his nature.
4. A name, in the given society, within the context of the bible, is given by God- in order to covey the nature of a person. To ask something in Jesus name, could well refer as much to his nature, as to his actual name, as shown in the Book of James (James chapter 4 verses 3,4, 8, and 10), where the verse on prayer is clarified.

Christ

1. The title Jesus adopts, as a king gains the name king (name), or an emperor gains the name Emperor (name), or a doctor gains the name Dr. (name).
2. Meaning “Anointed One” or “Anointed Messiah“.
3. Anointed refers to the position of Priests, kings, and Prophets in the Old Testament times. This name shows that Jesus combined all three titles.
4. “The use of the definite article before the word Christ and its gradual development into a proper name show the Christians identified the bearer with the promised Messias of the Jews. He combined in His person the offices of prophet (John 6:14; Matthew 13:57; Luke 13:33; 24:19) of king (Luke 23:2; Acts 17:7; 1 Corinthians 15:24; Apocalypse 15:3), and of priest (Hebrews 2:17; etc.); he fulfilled all the Messianic predictions in a fuller and a higher sense than had been given them by the teachers of the Synagogue.” http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08374x.htm
5. His position as the servant king, is again shown in God’s naming him, his son, with whom he is well pleased, a combination of the naming of a king (”son”) and the reference to God’s servant, as seen in Isaiah’s 53rd chapter, in verse 10, and the entirety of the chapter’s prediction.
6. Jewish Messiah- the Jews expected a great king to come, in the line of David, fulfilling prophesy. Jesus, was the expected “Messiah”, the Saviour of the Jews.
7. “Emmanual” or “God with us” (LLX : “Emmanouel“) is the prophetic name given to the child of a virgin in Isaiah chapter 7, verse 14. It already shows the trinitarian nature of the child, who is both God and man, fully both natures.
8. Messiah (Christ) is the name of Jesus, given in Daniel 9:26 and Psalm 2:2; it is the prophetic reference to the Jewish messiah.

Jesus name for himself

Jesus called himself the “son of man”, this is both a reference to the prophesy in Daniel (Daniel chapter 7 verse 13) and to God’s human nature, which is taken on.

It shows also, as is demonstrated throughout the bible, that God’s kingdom actually came with Jesus, and is already established in the church.

Lamb of God

This name, often used in Eucharistic ceremony, is used to denote Jesus’ innocence, and sacrificial nature, but also relates to the idea that the blood of such an animal was placed in a cross shape on the door frames of the Jewish people in Egypt, when the destroyer passed through the towns of Egypt, and killed the firstborn of the Egyptians, but spared the firstborn of the Jews, for the sacrificed blood on the door frames.

It is further a reference to Jesus’ perfection, in that the sacrificial lamb had to be without blemish.

“Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world” this statement refers, not simply to the ignoring, or covering, or sweeping under the rug, of the sins of those who believe, but the actual freeing from slavery to the devil, and slavery to the actions of sin (I John chapter 3 verses 7 and 8), over a time, and payment for such (I Corinthians 11 verse 32;Hebrews 12 verse 4) – in such a form, that the Catholic, actually becomes righteous via the sacraments(reference), and purification (Hebrews 12 verse 4), which continues after death in purgatory. In this, all is righted, showing God’s justice, yet the punishment, due to Christ’s death, is not permanent, as God shows, he will not punish the blameless. It is noted, that the Jews, continued to offer sacrifices every year, because they continued to sin.
Sacrifice, timeless, once- only

The sacrifice, was, as the bible notes, only one sacrifice (Hebrews chapter 9 verse 26), which accounts for all sin, throughout history. For this reason, the immaculate conception of Mary was already via the salvation of the cross, and every Eucharistic service, in fact, does not repeat the sacrifice, but connect through time, into the original sacrifice, connecting all the saints, throughout history into this one event,whereby the entire body becomes united, by the breaking of but a single loaf.

Actual Presence in valid Eucharist

Paul himself says that the Corinthians were sick or dying because they did not recognize the Eucharistic bread as the Actual body of Christ. In fact, they were condemning themselves by not recognizing the actual presence, or even respecting it (I Corinthian 11 Verse 29) and would be answerable to harming his body (verse 27) should they take it unworthily.

Sacraments

The salvation of the cross, is thereby administered via the sacraments, which exchange obedient faith, in obeying the illogical, for grace, which purifies (Romans chapter 3 verse 25;I Peter chapter 3 verse 21;1 Corinthians 12 Verse 13), edifies, maintains, and saves(I Peter chapter 3 verse 21;Gospel of John chapter 6) the Christian, entering him into the church(1 Corinthians 12 Verse 13), uniting him with his fellow believers in the Eucharist (Corinthians 10:17) and conforming him to the very image of Christ, via the church, which is the pillar and foundation of the Truth (1 Timothy 3:14-16).

Jesus as the church

Jesus also exists via his church, which the bible calls his body ( Ephesians chapter 4 verse16; I Collosians chapter 1 v 3, 16-18, 24, 26, 28 ; I Corinthians chapter 15 verses 24, 25 ,26, 50,I Timothy chapter 3 verse 15, Ephesians 5 verse 24; CCC 669), with him at the head. This is shown especially in Extra Ecclesiam Nulla Salus, which shows that it is via the works of his servant on earth, that God saves others, and acts (I Corinthians chapter 9 Verse 16;and a passage where St.Paul speaks of people only hearing the Gospel, if people are sent to preach it) in the world.

1. Views and perceptions of the individual person on any matter.
2. Personal likes, dislikes that together with societal factors, create perceptions of certain statements.
3. Views of peoples and individuals as to the meaning of the message of God.
4. Opinions that are not infallible.

Prophesy and personal interpretation

The bible clearly states that prophesy is not the realm of personal perceptions, but rather that the truth of God should be interpreted as he meant it to be.

“¹⁹ So we have confirmation of the words of the prophets; and you will be right to pay attention to it as to a lamp for lighting a way through the dark, until the dawn comes and the morning star rises in your minds.

²⁰ At the same time, we must recognise that the interpretation of scriptural prophecy is never a matter for the individual.

²¹ For no prophecy ever came from human initiative. When people spoke for God it was the Holy Spirit that moved them. “

(II Peter Chapter 1 verses 19-21) New Jerusalem Bible

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=59

Place of church

The Catholic church is considered the final authority and defender of the scriptures. It is considered the “pillar and foundation of the truth” (I Timothy chapter 3 verse 15).

(for evidence and expansion see our article on Authority of the State, Church God, Angels and others, or our page on the Scriptural Basis For Catholicism).

The gift of the saints

Not all Jesus’ words, in life and in three years of preaching, are recorded in the bible, but these are still divine. Tradition, the interpretation of the bible by the early church is fully beneficial in the study of scripture, and has been vastly expanded over time, via clarification, and much research.

The gift of church guided conscience

This is furthered by the gift of conscience, which aids in showing us the texts with prayer and guidance. This aid cannot contradict the truth, but must work in conjunction with the church (Acts 15). It is advised that one should use a Catholic endorsed bible, with the 7 books excluded by modern protestant versions(, many such bible follow the blueprint of the second version of the “King James” version, which excluded them), and that one receive the full training of the church as to the scripture, and that one buys a Catechism of the Catholic church. One should further attend mass every Sunday, and obey the church. If interpretation of a passage is unclear, then the Catechism should clear up the meaning. God gives grace to those reading the bible, and an indulgence has been given before, for those who read it constantly for more than fifteen minutes, however- while reading the bible is encouraged, this should be done with the original message in mind, and with meaning in mind (”hold the message you originally heard”). The bible is not considered a textbook for science and history. It is beneficial for our spiritual edification, and is useful. If one is considering joining the Faith, they should join either confirmation or Adult initiation, at a Catholic church, where a firm foundation will be laid as to the message of the bible.

Resources

New Advent (on prophesy)

http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/12473a.htm

“Catholics For Truth” (dept. evangelism site Archdiocese of Johannesburg)

On Jehovah’s Witnesses

http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/12473a.htm

Eternal Word Television Network

Interpreting the bible

http://www.ewtn.com/library/CURIA/PBCINTER.HTM

New Jerusalme Bible

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=52&bible_chapter=3

Other Links

http://scripturelinkencyclopedia.stblogs.com/2007/11/14/authority-of-the-state-church-god-angels-and-others/

For me, one of the greatest mysteries of Catholicism, lies in the state of the Eastern Orthodox churches. They are rightly called our separated brethren. They seem fully sacramental, and hold much of our doctrine. The mystery lies both in their faulty claim of Independence from roman authority, but also in the mirror image, and absolutely valid church they exist as to Rome. The statement by Paul- “We are one body because we share one loaf”(Corinthians 10:17), sums the simple argument as to why they cannot be the fullness of the truth. There are many loafs within the Orthodox community, not all in communion with one another, and should they unite, it still does not answer the question, how is it that God’s church could split and no longer be able to act infallibly, and as one, surely, that contradicts (John 17 v 20-25), and the statement about Hades not conquering the church. Further, it is the church that defines truth and interprets the bible

“

1 Timothy 3:14-16 from the Niv Tramslation:

“if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. “”http://kindstuff.googlepages.com/(bibleonbaptism)

If the church has split, as they claim, and if many or all of their churches are true, but disagree, then such is not the church. Further, God displayed authority(John 5 v 36-40,Acts 5 v 4,Acts 15 v 19,22-30,John 11 v 51,1 Peter Chapter 2 verses 12-14, I Corinthians chapter 12 ) at levels in the church, that there may not be such disputes, but in the end, each person is subjected to another, until finally conscience and God. God Surely would have seen(Ephesians 1 v 11-15) the Schism, and prevented it, if he aimed for there to be no final authority at the top levels of the Church. Surely, God makes no mistakes, and the church must either be one, whole and fully powerful, or the lack of such disproves Christianity, or makes it seem that God makes mistakes.  All this said, we have the problem as to the fact that the Eastern Orthodox churches are Apostolic, and their doctrine has not decayed and changed as the Protestant doctrine has. They most clearly have valid sacraments and institute salvation. In essence, the Orthodox churches are a mystery, like the tree* that grew up overnight. It was neither fed, nor watered, yet- having survived occupation by the enemies who took over the lands in the east, they have survived with what they could preserved of the truth, and for this obedience, and beauty, are in fact churches, and demonstrations of God’s mercy, even as they are not fully in communion (reference to being of the same loaf or not) with God’s servant on earth.”

*Jonah Chapter 4

Marc Aupiais

Definition

Those churches with valid Apostolic succession, sacraments and validly called churches, within the Eastern Christian world, acknowledging the first seven councils fully, and holding a similar bible to the Holy Roman Community, but which are not in full communion with the Papacy, acknowledging his place of honour, as Peter’s successor, but not his Authority, which cannot be separated from such.

How they relate to us

The Eastern Orthodox are to be treated with respect, as true examples of God’s actions, and fully valid Apostolic churches (the true Eastern Orthodox Churches that is). They are our Separated Brethren, and must be prayed for. While they do not know the fullness of the truth, they still retain what they had when circumstances and political problems separated our brother churches from us. They are to be considered as though having authority over their members. The Catholic church fully recognises their place in the world, and at the same time aims that they should be reunited with Church and Papacy.

Common traits

 The Eastern churches are vastly similar in creed and sacrament.

James (James chapter 5 verse 15) notes that the prayer of the righteous is answered, so far as it is earnest and in line with God’s will, if God did not answer Jesus prayer, and Jesus’ purpose, we know is the very will of God, then either Jesus is not righteous, or God is not all-powerful. We know that God interprets our prayers as they best benefit us and God, but there is no need for God to translate his own prayers- for only God knows God’s mind, and Jesus is one with God. His purpose is God’s purpose.

This is furthered by “¹³ We were baptised into one body in a single Spirit, Jews as well as Greeks, slaves as well as free men, and we were all given the same Spirit to drink. … ²⁵ and so that there may not be disagreements inside the body but each part may be equally concerned for all the others. ” (I corinthians chapter 12 New Jerusalem Bible http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=46&bible_chapter=12) and by”²⁸ And those whom God has appointed in the Church are, first apostles, secondly prophets, thirdly teachers; after them, miraculous powers, then gifts of healing, helpful acts, guidance, various kinds of tongues. “ (I corinthians chapter 12 New Jerusalem Biblehttp://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=46&bible_chapter=12)  and by the fact that one cannot hide a city on a hill, nor place a lamp under a bowl, and that the church is constant since the time of Christ, and there is one gospel and one message that cannot change since the beginning (”the gates of hell will not over come it”, “my words will not fade away”, “let what you heard in the beginning remain in you” see I john chapter 2 verse 24 )

Definition

1. Power given, or taken by one over another- or due to one over another- whereby consent, reverence to knowledge, or obedience is “required”, either for membership to a group, or by the principal of justice, or by consequences rendered for non-compliance.
2. Influence, or domain over specific matters, within a specific jurisdiction in certain circumstance, given to one individual or group over others- either due to circumstance or higher authority.

Civil authority

What is meant by such:

This authority- given to governments- for the uplifting of their people- not just groups within- relates to the civil responsibility of states or nations to uphold the rights of their people, and the moral responsibility of every citizen to obey the present authorities above them- in every just command- placing God first in command, and all other authorities in proportion.

catechism :

“1898 Every human community needs an authority to govern it.¹⁶ The foundation of such authority lies in human nature. It is necessary for the unity of the state. Its role is to ensure as far as possible the common good of the society.” catechism of the Catholic Church

Where authority is not valid:

“1903 Authority is exercised legitimately only when it seeks the common good of the group concerned and if it employs morally licit means to attain it. If rulers were to enact unjust laws or take measures contrary to the moral order, such arrangements would not be binding in conscience. In such a case, “authority breaks down completely and results in shameful abuse.”²³” catechism of the Catholic Church

Bible on authority

“Render to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God that which is due to God” Jesus of Nazareth

“It is better to obey God than man” (or “is it better to obey God, or Man” in some translations) The apostles in The Acts of the Apostles

“¹² Always behave honourably among gentiles so that they can see for themselves what moral lives you lead, and when the day of reckoning comes, give thanks to God for the things which now make them denounce you as criminals.

¹³ For the sake of the Lord, accept the authority of every human institution: the emperor, as the supreme authority,

¹⁴ and the governors as commissioned by him to punish criminals and praise those who do good. ” New Jerusalem Bible (1 Peter Chapter 2) http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=58&bible_chapter=2

“
¹⁰ That is why I am writing this while still far away, so that when I am with you I shall not have to be harsh, with the authority that the Lord has given me, an authority that is for building up and not for breaking down.

Conclusion

¹¹ To end then, brothers, we wish you joy; try to grow perfect; encourage one another; have a common mind and live in peace, and the God of love and peace will be with you.”

New Jerusalem Bible (II Corinthians Chapter 13)

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=47&bible_chapter=13

“¹ I urge then, first of all that petitions, prayers, intercessions and thanksgiving should be offered for everyone,

² for kings and others in authority, so that we may be able to live peaceful and quiet lives with all devotion and propriety.

³ To do this is right, and acceptable to God our Saviour: “

New Jerusalem Bible (I Timothy Chapter 2)

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=52&bible_chapter=2

“² And his teaching made a deep impression on them because, unlike the scribes, he taught them with authority. ” New Jerusalem Bible (Gospel of Mark Chapter 1)

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=41

“¹⁴ He offered himself for us in order to ransom us from all our faults and to purify a people to be his very own and eager to do good.

¹⁵ This is what you must say, encouraging or arguing with full authority; no one should despise you.” New Jerusalem Bible (Titus Chapter 2)

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=54&bible_chapter=2

“⁵¹ He went down with them then and came to Nazareth and lived under their authority. His mother stored up all these things in her heart. “

New Jerusalem Bible (Luke Chapter 2)

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=42&bible_chapter=2

Church authority
Catholics believe in the authority of the Apostles (Luke 9,Luke 10 v 8-16,John 11 v 51,Acts 15 v 19,22-30,Acts 5 v 4,Acts 1 v 20) over the Christian world, and their right to interpret scripture, and other revelation in relation to morals and doctrine, in certain circumstances- accurately. They further believe that this right was passed down by Apostolic succession (Acts 1 v 20), whereby the apostles had the right to transfer their authority to others. All valid Christianity springs from the catholic church, who has maintained this succession via the clergy and the papacy. This authority is used in all infallible decisions.

Other Authority and domains of the Roman Apostolic Catholic Church

The church- further is seen as having authority over its followers as demanded by justice- whereby certain actions are forbidden or required (Luke 9). The church may validly excommunicate certain individuals, groups, or peoples- automatically via decree, or individually according to the case (1 Corinthians 5).

Limit of the Authority of Rome

The human person cannot be coerced into the Christian faith, but must be given the choice to remain, or join such. On the other hand- the human person may not- neither without restraint nor with much noise- be permitted to publicize their dissent, diabolic, or hateful views.

Doctrinal authority

One credits the church with superior interpretive abilities as to the Sacred Text, due to her position, and submits to it.

Authority of God

“Do not fear those who can only kill the body” Jesus of Nazareth

God is considered to have absolute authority over destiny, fate (Ephesians 1 v 11-15), and all created beings, including the devil. Only what he permits is able to exist.

This does not make God evil, rather demonstrates his justice in allowing choice (”You send yourself to hell”- popular Christian opinion), which is also demonstrated in strict punishment of both well-meaning and bad.

The good are punished- that they may become pure.

The evil/wicked are punished- because God places all in the right place, and renders onto others as they have themselves rendered to others, and perhaps even worse.

Spiritual Authority

The bible notes hierarchical structures for good and for evil in the spiritual world.

Christians are told to note that it is not flesh or blood they fight against, but principalities and authorities of the spiritual world.

Conscience and natural Law

People are also obligated to obey RIGHT conscience, as to what they ought to do.

The Family

Limit of obediance.

“anyone who loves their mother, son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me” Jesus of Nazareth.

In normal events
Children are to obey their parents (Luke Chapter 2 verse 51), but not above the church, or God.

Wives are to obey their husbands (Ephesians chapter 5: verses 21-33), but within limits and boundaries, and not in such a way that it affects the dignity of the person, or contradicts the will or command of God. (see article on The Family structure relating to the degree of submission required of wives).

People are also required to work for their masters diligently, as though working for the Lord.

Parents, husbands, or others with authority are to treat those below them with respect as fellow human beings, paying what dignity is deserved. Husbands and parents are to love and take care of their wives (for husbands) and children.

Further Resources

Vatican

Catechism

http://www.vatican.va/archive/ccc_css/archive/catechism/p3s1c2a2.htm

www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p3s1c2a2.htm

Papacy, councils etc
http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/leo_xiii/encyclicals/documents/hf_l-xiii_enc_10021880_arcanum_en.html

http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/chrstuni/documents/rc_pc_chrstuni_doc_12051999_gift-of-autority_en.html

New Advent

http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/15006b.htm

http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/02137c.htm

EWTN

http://www.ewtn.com/faith/teachings/papad1.htm

This Rock

http://www.catholic.com/library/Authority_of_the_Pope_Part_1.asp

http://www.catholic.com/thisrock/1998/9802fea2.asp

Details

His view, while supported by many quotes, disagreed also with many quotes of the fathers.

Ultimately, Vatican II settled the issue of Baptism of desire for the church, who infallibly looked at the issue. Feeney believed that the Church’s statements were open to personal interpretation. The Pope at the time stated that like the scripture, they were not open to such. As the Apostle Peter said- “Prophesy is never a matter left up to the individual”(II Peter chapter 1 Verse 20).

Feeney named the pope of his time, and others who declared baptism of desire true to be heretics (”Feeney himself says of Baptism of desire: “That is heresy!”" http://www.ewtn.com/library/SCRIPTUR/FEENEY2.TXT) , and believed that the church’s teaching was contrary to what it itself thought it to be.

Feeney’s excommunication, for disobeying the summons to Rome (many times), was later lifted, out of the Church’s decision to allow diversity in the church, by a later pope. Feeney’s followers are known as the Feeneyites. Other controversial decisions of Feeney included his choice to communally raise children, never attempted by the Church before, but done by heretical groups in the past.

The church relooked at the doctrine of “outside the church no salvation” declaring it to be true, but that it should be interpreted as the church set out. As truth cannot contradict truth, this doctrine must be interpreted with Baptism of desire in mind.

Please see our article on this issue (”extra ecclesiam nulla salus”) , also see our article (http://scripturelinkencyclopedia.stblogs.com/2007/11/20/eastern-orthodoxy-a-mystery-of-our-eastern-brothers/) and our section on scripture and corruption in(http://scripturelinkencyclopedia.stblogs.com/2007/11/24/curruption/). Also note what the Bible says- “hold the faith you originally heard”, and the church is the “pillar and foundation of the truth”, and our article on authority (Authority of the State, Church, God, Angels and others).

Further resources

http://www.ewtn.com/expert/answers/outside_the_church.htm

http://www.catholic.com/thisrock/2005/0512fea3.asp

http://www.ewtn.com/expert/answers/outside_the_church.htm

http://www.ewtn.com/expert/answers/outside_the_church.htm

http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/audiences/alpha/data/aud19950531en.html

http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/audiences/alpha/data/aud19950531en.html

www.ewtn.com/library/SCRIPTUR/FEENEY2.TXT

On extra ecclesiam nulla salus

Resources

This Rock Magazine

http://www.catholic.com/thisrock/2005/0512fea3.asp

http://www.catholic.com/library/Salvation_Outside_the_Church.asp

http://www.catholic.com/thisrock/1999/9909frs.asp

http://www.catholic.com/thisrock/2004/0403sbs.asp

www.catholic.com/thisrock/2002/0207fea3.asp

www.catholic.com/newsletters/kke_040113.asp

Eternal Word Television Network

http://www.ewtn.com/expert/answers/outside_the_church.htm

http://www.ewtn.com/library/ANSWERS/EXTRECCL.HTM

http://www.ewtn.com/library/SCRIPTUR/EXTRAECC.TXT

www.ewtn.com/library/SCRIPTUR/FEENEY2.TXT

Vatican

http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/audiences/alpha/data/aud19950531en.html

www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_const_19641121_lumen-gentium_en.html

www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p123a9p3.htm

http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/cti_documents/rc_con_cfaith_doc_20070419_un-baptised-infants_en.html

http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_cons_19651207_gaudium-et-spes_en.html

www.vatican.va/archive/compendium_ccc/documents/archive_2005_compendium-ccc_en.html

www.vatican.va/roman_curia/synod/documents/rc_synod_doc_20040528_lineamenta-xi-assembly_en.html

Valid links contradicting the Feeneyist view are:

Unbaptised children

http://scripturelinkencyclopedia.stblogs.com/2007/11/08/infallibility/

(Also showing the broad catholic view, and authority of church councils -on the authority of church councils)

Vatican

www.vatican.va/archive/ccc_css/archive/catechism/p3s1c3a3.htm

www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/audiences/alpha/data/aud19930324en.htmlwww.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/audiences/alpha/data/aud19930317en.htmlEternal

Eternal Word Television Network

www.ewtn.com/library/ISSUES/ORDIN.TXT

www.ewtn.com/library/ANSWERS/EXPLINFA.htm

www.ewtn.com/library/ISSUES/ORDIN.TXT

www.ewtn.com/library/ISSUES/SHAWINFA.TXT

www.ewtn.com/faith/Teachings/papac2.htm

www.ewtn.com/library/ANSWERS/MIRINFAL.htm

www.ewtn.com/library/Theology/SIPVAT2.HTM

www.ewtn.com/library/DOCTRINE/TRIGINFL.HTM

www.ewtn.com/library/ANSWERS/INFALLIB.htm

www.ewtn.com/library/Theology/SUMMARY.HTM

www.ewtn.com/library/CHRIST/CONFATAL.txt

www.ewtn.com/library/ISSUES/PILSORD.TXT

www.ewtn.com/faith/Teachings/chura2a.htm

www.ewtn.com/library/HUMANITY/THEOTRAD.TXT

www.ewtn.com/vexperts/showmessage.asp?number=518780&Pg=Forum6&Pgnu=1&recnu=7

New Advent- Catholic Encyclopedia

www.newadvent.org/cathen/05030a.htm

www.newadvent.org/cathen/07790a.htm

www.newadvent.org/cathen/15303a.htm

Catholic Online

Catholic Encyclopedia

www.catholic.org/encyclopedia/view.php?id=6099

www.catholic.org/encyclopedia/view.php?id=3717

United States Council Of Catholic Bishops

www.usccb.org/comm/archives/2003/03-075.shtml

www.usccb.org/catechism/text/pt1sect2chpt3art9p4.htm

www.usccb.org/seia/southernbaptist.shtml

This Rock- www.catholic.com

www.catholic.com/library/Papal_Infallibility.asp

www.catholic.com/thisrock/2002/0202sbs.asp

www.catholic.com/thisrock/1990/9007qq.asp

www.catholic.com/thisrock/2001/0109bt.asp

www.catholic.com/thisrock/2000/0010fea5.asp

www.catholic.com/thisrock/1994/9409fea2.asp

www.catholic.com/thisrock/2002/0212qq.asp www.catholic.com/thisrock/2000/0004qq.asp

http://www.catholic.com/thisrock/2005/0510fr.asp