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.

1. State of consistent, or noticeable pain or discomfort, generally caused by one or several causes.
2. to suffer- to be in pain or discomfort.
3. The process whereby one goes through emotional, physical or spiritual angish, pain, discomfort, or disease.
4. The channel of God’s communication, methods, and love- whereby he gains our attention as to our fallen state.

Problem of pain

C.S. Lewis believed that suffering, while in his opinion an “evil”, was designed to be a warning system, whereby the unbeliever and believer alike realize their unfortunate separation from the perfection of God.

Caring pain - Marc Aupiais

Grace could allow suffering to aid salvation. This makes suffering an act of Love, whereby what seems infinite and unbearable, and horrid, is in fact, in truth- not a harm, yet like medicine, a benefit to the spiritual, a birthing of eternal happiness, and the extension of the voice of truth.

It also allows us to understand better the love of God, best understood by those who themselves have suffered. Many of the saints (if not all) became so Holy in their meditation of the pain and suffering of their predecessors, or of the Lord, Father- God- Yahweh, we see it firmly in the form of the Child- Jesus. Sadly, (I have had to edit out this spelling error, or whatever it is, and have changed this so that I must clarify): Only Jesus suffered physically, but all of God: suffered in some way, in witnessing Christ on the cross. After All, Christ says: My God, My God: why have you abandoned me, therefor, we know that it is Jesus who suffered, and the three are definitely separate persons. (I am sorry for the hopefully unclear sentence, which could be read as though heresy, I have tried to clarify it,: that in fact, the three are different persons, as I do believe, It is Jesus who suffered physically on the cross, even as God likely suffered “emotionally”, or perhaps in a spiritual way: as only Jesus took the human form.)

Marc Aupiais- Suffering

Suffering and pain are not contrary to the goodness of the Almighty, yet intrinsic to his nature. These are present yet but that his love involves suffering, as love is in nature both suffering and long-suffering. The ultimate act of love is an act of sacrifice. The ancients, whose God did not need food, understood that sacrifice was a sign of love, in that love gives of self. In est, it could be said that yet suffering exists, yet that created being may aid his fellow creation, who is in lesser circumstance than him, and thereby mimic the nature of God, giving of self, or of domain, that another may have comort, relief, or the hope of a gesture. Suffering is the ultimate act of love, and should always be dedicated either to God or others. 

Of notice to the child of God as to suffering

Suffering- This nature of God, who is love is best shown in the adversity, and pain endured by Christ, and demanded of all Christians, especially via Stations of The Cross, which demands that the Catholic receives every such challenge as a sacrifice he is to dedicate to his creator, or the goodness of his fellows, so far as it is unpreventable, and as love demands on conscience.  

Good suffering

“Suffering” often prevents greater harm, even eternal harm, and is necessary to salvaion- creating love, and often allowing grater harm to be avoided, or allowing grave harm to be stopped.

Self mortification, as demanded of Christians, even after Vatican II, on Fridays- sometimes still takes the form of a fast, such as not eating meat, or shellfish on Friday (as is demanded by some bishops in their diocese). It is purposeful, and beneficial, as personal suffering in some forms, becomes a personal sacrifice to God, and edifies the Christian salvation.

Harm of inadequate cure

It is not true that suffering is to only be cured in the body- rather- it always has further purpose, whether circumstantial, or pertaining to salvation itself with venial or grave dangers. Evil people, however their evil is used, and all things are used by our God for good in the end, are still punished, and should be punished, because the good of God does not excuse their harm.

John Paul, on suffering notes

“In fact, over the course of the centuries the Church has felt strongly that service to the sick and suffering is an integral part of her mission, and not only has she encouraged among Christians the blossoming of various works of mercy, but she has also established many religious institutions within her with the specific aim to fostering, organizing, improving and increasing help to the sick Missionaries, on their part, in carrying out the work of evangelization have constantly combined the preaching of the Good News with the help and care of the sick.” http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/motu_proprio/documents/hf_jp-ii_motu-proprio_11021985_dolentium-hominum_en.html (John Paul II)

Bible on suffering

Suffering is considered a reward, so far as it is not deserved by stupidity or sin(I Peter chapter II verse 18 – 25), for which He sometimes also gives it (Hebrews 11, I corinthins chapters 10, 11). Evil people may avoid suffering here, but are paid for it in another life. Even purgatory shows this vitalness of suffering (see Job 24)

Suffering is a devine mission, so far as it is beneficial, and Godly. It is the centre of Christian salvation, and meditation, in that wisely chosen, or devinely ordained Godly suffering brings salvation (Isaiah 53). This does not mean that the Christian should accept any suffering, but only some suffering.

Catechism on suffering

“1499 “By the sacred anointing of the sick and the prayer of the priests the whole Church commends those who are ill to the suffering and glorified Lord, that he may raise them up and save them. And indeed she exhorts them to contribute to the good of the People of God by freely uniting themselves to the Passion and death of Christ.”⁹⁷ “

 http://www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p2s2c2a5.htm

“516 Christ’s whole earthly life – his words and deeds, his silences and sufferings, indeed his manner of being and speaking – is Revelation of the Father. Jesus can say: “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father“, and the Father can say: “This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!”¹⁷⁷ Because our Lord became man in order to do his Father’s will, even the least characteristics of his mysteries manifest “God’s love. . . among us”.¹⁷⁸ … 518 Christ’s whole life is a mystery of recapitulation. All Jesus did, said and suffered had for its aim restoring fallen man to his original vocation:”

http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/_P1L.HTM

“1500 Illness and suffering have always been among the gravest problems confronted in human life. In illness, man experiences his powerlessness, his limitations, and his finitude. Every illness can make us glimpse death.

1501 Illness can lead to anguish, self-absorption, sometimes even despair and revolt against God. It can also make a person more mature, helping him discern in his life what is not essential so that he can turn toward that which is. Very often illness provokes a search for God and a return to him.

The sick person before God

1502 The man of the Old Testament lives his sickness in the presence of God. It is before God that he laments his illness, and it is of God, Master of life and death, that he implores healing.⁹⁸ Illness becomes a way to conversion; God’s forgiveness initiates the healing.⁹⁹ It is the experience of Israel that illness is mysteriously linked to sin and evil, and that faithfulness to God according to his law restores life: “For I am the Lord, your healer.”¹⁰⁰ The prophet intuits that suffering can also have a redemptive meaning for the sins of others.¹⁰¹ Finally Isaiah announces that God will usher in a time for Zion when he will pardon every offense and heal every illness.¹⁰²

Christ the physician“

http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/_P4K.HTM

“516 Christ’s whole earthly life – his words and deeds, his silences and sufferings, indeed his manner of being and speaking – is Revelation of the Father. Jesus can say: “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father“, and the Father can say: “This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!”¹⁷⁷ Because our Lord became man in order to do his Father’s will, even the least characteristics of his mysteries manifest “God’s love. . . among us”.¹⁷⁸“ 

Compendium

“

54. How did God create the universe?

295-301
317-320

God created the universe freely with wisdom and love. The world is not the result of any necessity, nor of blind fate, nor of chance. God created “out of nothing” (ex nihilo) (2 Maccabees 7:28) a world which is ordered and good and which he infinitely transcends. God preserves his creation in being and sustains it, giving it the capacity to act and leading it toward its fulfillment through his Son and the Holy Spirit.

55. What is divine providence?

302-306
321

Divine Providence consists in the dispositions with which God leads his creatures toward their ultimate end. God is the sovereign Master of his own plan. To carry it out, however, he also makes use of the cooperation of his creatures. For God grants his creatures the dignity of acting on their own and of being causes for each other.

56. How do we collaborate with divine Providence?

307-308
323

While respecting our freedom, God asks us to cooperate with him and gives us the ability to do so through actions, prayers and sufferings, thus awakening in us the desire “to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13).

57. If God is omnipotent and provident, why then does evil exist?

309-310
324, 400

To this question, as painful and mysterious as it is, only the whole of Christian faith can constitute a response. God is not in any way – directly or indirectly – the cause of evil. He illuminates the mystery of evil in his Son Jesus Christ who died and rose in order to vanquish that great moral evil, human sin, which is at the root of all other evils.

58. Why does God permit evil?

311-314
324 

Faith gives us the certainty that God would not permit evil if he did not cause a good to come from that very evil. This was realized in a wondrous way by God in the death and resurrection of Christ. In fact, from the greatest of all moral evils (the murder of his Son) he has brought forth the greatest of all goods (the glorification of Christ and our redemption).”

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

Quotations on Suffering

“

The random massive destruction of a hurricane or earthquake can look meaningless. Worse, it can look monumentally unfair. Poverty has already wreaked havoc on the Caribbean Islands: Do they really need a hurricane on top of it?

But not only is this world not the only one that exists – suffering is a prerequisite for entrance into a far better world.

The Catholic faith uniquely understands the place of suffering in the human experience – and the divine experience.

Our church began with the crucifixion of its founder, grew during a time of persecution in which its most prominent members were martyred and now requires that each church feature a crucifix in its center and Stations of Cross along its walls.

When God asks us to suffer, he isn’t asking us for something he isn’t willing to do himself. In fact, we believe that God cared so much for our plight, he entered our world as one of us in order to transform our suffering into a pathway to a pain-free, eternal life.

This central truth of our faith transforms tragedies into hopeful occasions, all by itself, because it has the power to transform sudden death into eternal life.

Second: God brings good out of suffering even for the living. “

http://www.catholic.org/views/views_news.php?id=25125

 ”From the time of Adam and Eve, man has tried to escape suffering in any form. It is a mystery to all except the holy ones of God. The Prophets saw it as a call from God to repent. The Apostles saw it as “a happy privilege” to imitate Jesus. Pagans saw it as foolishness. Men of today see it as an evil and try to avoid it, but it follows them wherever they go… How many times have we implored God for some favor with great fervor, only to suffer the most crushing disappointment. Months or years later our hearts break out in prayers of thanksgiving when we look back and realize the acquisition of such a “favor” would have been disastrous!“

 http://www.ewtn.com/library/mother/ma11e.htm

“There are many ways of serving God in our particular state of life. We mention some that are more general and apply to all walks of life. Among these services we can render are: time, talent, suffering, prayer, and material means. One of the most precious gifts God has given us is time. It is a gift that must be traded well. Our eternity may depend on how well it is used. It is a tool in our hands with which we carve the edifice in which we will live for all eternity.”

http://www.ewtn.com/library/mother/ma47.htm

(article on Godly sufferer- http://www.zenit.org/article-19582?l=english)

Should I trust God with all my mouth, and accept his every word,

Should I complete every ceremony and memorize each word,

And preach to all the earth with empty words,

Yet, trust God to call me innocent, despite my evil deeds,

Should I praise the Lord with every song, and always attend church,

Yet should I mimic not his life, his grace, and claim I only live for him,

Should I compensate for my good faith, with every now a lie,

And steal every now and then, and mock those, whose faith is dear,

And chase away the gates of hope,

Should I choose the evil man over the good,

And the Liar over the boring truth,

Should I, claiming to trust God, yet not his methods,

Should I mimic the devil, in what he does,

And do evil that good may come,

Should I, not then ask the question of unpopular truth-

Do I trust and follow God,

Or the devil I mimic?”

-Marc Aupiais

Definition

1.  Righteousness- a firm disposition  wherein a man consistently chooses and acts on right over wrong, and does what is right consistently in virtue.
2. Acts of godliness and untainted goodness.
3. mimicry of the nature of Charity which is noted of Godliness.

Righteousness

A requirement for salvation, righteousness not only causes the Christian to accept the message of salvation (John 10:14-15;John chapter 3 verse 19-21), but also affects his further salvation (I John chapter 3), with such importance that without such, he cannot be saved (Revelation- nothing impure… heaven).

-Marc Aupiais

Definition

1. Of low birth, conditions, circumstance, or value.
2. Lowliness, of little worth, or submissive.
3. To place one’s self in his true place, recognizing his own inadequacy, and foolishness, and seeking to gain truer knowledge, and above that wisdom, that he may better obey God, in his low position, which truly is low.

Humility (See Psalm 18)

Humility is vital to uplifting oneself before God. God aids those, who know their place and act according to it. Humility is an action of the beatitudes, whereby one realizes, not only his lack of self-gained objects and things, but also that his life is not defined by his possessions,

neither that of popularity, which belonged to Jesus with the same crowd who crucified him,

nor with his wealth, which cannot save him, and is subject to change with the season, and disappear with thieves, rust, age, or the whims of fate and natural disasters,

nor only with his own good habits (Psalm 18 verse 32), and virtue, which is given by God, and can be taken away, and are worthless without Charity (Christian word for love as in I Corinthians 13),

nor with knowledge, or shrewdness, which can be taken away, or turn out to be less than perceptions,
nor with his physical appearance, which can age, be the subject of damage, or change, or perhaps is not a great as one thinks it to be, or perhaps is greater,

nor with good reputation- the gift of society to the false prophets and enemies of God,

nor with his family and friendships, or livestock, or the achievements of his life, all can be taken, and achievements can become worthless, or disgraced in different societies.

Rather- the humble man does not compare himself with others, but rather with holiness, and aims purely of heart- that he may become holy as God is holy, and humbles himself, no longer competing for endless trivia, but rather empty of any thought of self reliance, in such a way that he relies utterly on God, aiming for the things of God, and focusing on what is best for both self and neighbor, but firstly for the aims of God. The Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi is one of humility, and honest, self denying truth.

This does not give a man the right to no longer work, for he must work, both for self and for God, and to give to those who are in need. This does not entitle a man to degrade himself, or his church, rather- false humility is sin. Rather- it is the utter readjustment of the conscience, in such a way that one values that in heaven over that on earth. The greatest in heaven serves all.

Catechism of the Catholic Church on humility

“2729 The habitual difficulty in prayer is distraction. It can affect words and their meaning in vocal prayer; it can concern, more profoundly, him to whom we are praying, in vocal prayer (liturgical or personal), meditation, and contemplative prayer. To set about hunting down distractions would be to fall into their trap, when all that is necessary is to turn back to our heart: for a distraction reveals to us what we are attached to, and this humble awareness before the Lord should awaken our preferential love for him and lead us resolutely to offer him our heart to be purified. Therein lies the battle, the choice of which master to serve.¹⁶“

http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/__P9Q.HTM

“2778 This power of the Spirit who introduces us to the Lord’s Prayer is expressed in the liturgies of East and of West by the beautiful, characteristically Christian expression: parrhesia, straightforward simplicity, filial trust, joyous assurance, humble boldness, the certainty of being loved.” http://www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p4s2a2.htm

“2742 “Pray constantly . . . always and for everything giving thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father.”³³ St. Paul adds, “Pray at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance making supplication for all the saints.”³⁴ For “we have not been commanded to work, to keep watch and to fast constantly, but it has been laid down that we are to pray without ceasing.”³⁵ This tireless fervor can come only from love. Against our dullness and laziness, the battle of prayer is that of humble, trusting, and persevering love. This love opens our hearts to three enlightening and life-giving facts of faith about prayer.”

http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/_P9S.HTM

“489 Throughout the Old Covenant the mission of many holy women prepared for that of Mary. At the very beginning there was Eve; despite her disobedience, she receives the promise of a posterity that will be victorious over the evil one, as well as the promise that she will be the mother of all the living.¹²⁸ By virtue of this promise, Sarah conceives a son in spite of her old age.¹²⁹ Against all human expectation God chooses those who were considered powerless and weak to show forth his faithfulness to his promises: Hannah, the mother of Samuel; Deborah; Ruth; Judith and Esther; and many other women.¹³⁰ Mary “stands out among the poor and humble of the Lord, who confidently hope for and receive salvation from him. After a long period of waiting the times are fulfilled in her, the exalted Daughter of Sion, and the new plan of salvation is established.”¹³¹“

http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/_P1K.HTM

“1218 Since the beginning of the world, water, so humble and wonderful a creature, has been the source of life and fruitfulness. Sacred Scripture sees it as “oveshadowed” by the Spirit of God:¹²“

http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/_P3I.HTM
Catechism of the Catholic Church- Compendium

“573. Are there objections to prayer?

2726-2728
2752-2753

Along with erroneous notions of prayer, many think they do not have the time to pray or that praying is useless. Those who pray can be discouraged in the face of difficulties and apparent lack of success. Humility, trust and perseverance are necessary to overcome these obstacles.” http://www.vatican.va/archive/compendium_ccc/documents/archive_2005_compendium-ccc_en.html

Bible on humility

“ It is right that the brother in humble circumstances should glory in being lifted up,

¹⁰ and the rich in being brought low. For the rich will last no longer than the wild flower;” James Chapter 1, verse 10 (New Jerusalem Bible)

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=57

“⁹ Shoulder my yoke and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ” Gospel according to Matthew Chapter 11 verse 9 (New Jerusalem Bible

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=40&bible_chapter=11

“^2:3 Seek Yahweh, all you humble of the land, who have kept his ordinances. Seek righteousness. Seek humility. It may be that you will be hidden in the day of Yahweh’s anger. ” Zephaniah Chapter 2, verse 3 (New Jerusalem Bible)

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=36&bible_chapter=2

“^8:21 Then I proclaimed a fast there, at the river Ahava, that we might humble ourselves before our God, to seek of him a straight way for us, and for our little ones, and for all our substance. “Book of Ezra, Chapter 8 verse 21 (new Jerusalem Bible)

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=15&bible_chapter=8

“¹⁶ Give the same consideration to all others alike. Pay no regard to social standing, but meet humble people on their own terms. Do not congratulate yourself on your own wisdom. “Epistle of St. Paul to the Romans Chapter 12 verse 16 (New Jerusalem Bible)

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=45&bible_chapter=12

“⁵ Say to the daughter of Zion: Look, your king is approaching, humble and riding on a donkey and on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.” (about Jesus) Gospel According to Matthew, chapter 21, verse 5 (New Jerusalem Bible)

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=40&bible_chapter=21

“¹ I urge you by the gentleness and forbearance of Christ-this is Paul now speaking personally-I, the one who is so humble when he is facing you but full of boldness at a distance. ” 2nd Epistle of St. Paul to the Corinthians, Chapter 10, verse 1 (New Jerusalem Bible)

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=47&bible_chapter=10

“²⁷ you save a people that is humble
and humiliate those with haughty looks.”

Psalm 18, verse 27 (New Jerusalem bible)

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=19&bible_chapter=18

Quotes on humility

“”In keeping with this,” continued the Pontiff, “sin is seen as a wound that penance alone can heal.”

“A man that has been injured in battle,” says Aphraates, “is not ashamed to put himself in the hands of a doctor. … Equally so, he who has been injured by Satan should not be ashamed to admit his fault and to distance himself from it, asking for the medicine of penance.”

Benedict XVI said that Aphraates also wrote that “Christian life is centered on the imitation of Christ, taking up his yoke, following him on the path of the Gospel,” and that humility is the main virtue of a disciple.

“It is not a secondary consideration in the spiritual life of a Christian,” said the Pope. “By remaining humble, even in his earthly surroundings, a Christian can establish a relationship with the Lord.”

“God is attracted to the man who loves, it is right to love humility and to stay humble,” the Holy Father said, quoting Aphraates. “Humble individuals are simple, patient, loving, honest, righteous, experts in what is good, prudent, serene, wise, calm, peaceful, merciful, ready to convert, benevolent, profound, thoughtful, beautiful and attractive.”

http://www.zenit.org/rssenglish-21071

“It is true that at times Jesus became powerful, he worked great miracles but he feared that people would see in him the Powerful One who does great things instead of the One who seeks to give Communion. So Jesus becomes little, he is humble and this because we admire the powerful, but we love the little ones, the child, the person who is weak, fragile. So for me Jesus is the One who becomes little, he is God who becomes little, who hides in the poor, the humble, the weak, the dying, the sick; because all these people who are particularly fragile are longing for love and I see this as the mystery of Jesus and that Jesus is love. Just as God is Love. Jesus is Love. Jesus knelt down in front of his disciples, he washed the feet of his disciples saying: «I must give you an example so that you will do what I am doing». So I think the world is waiting for a saviour who is little and humble and who comes to give love. «Come to me all you who are weary and I will give you my rest, because I am meek and humble of heart». I think that the whole mystery of Jesus is contained in these words: «I bend over him like a font of mercy» because all he wants is to love, to give his heart and all that He asks of us is to offer our hearts, and to receive this mystery of God’s love, the presence of Jesus. So for me Jesus is the One who is meek and humble of heart, who hides in the poor and who says, as we read in the Book of Prophets: «My son, give me your heart».“

http://www.vatican.va/jubilee_2000/magazine/documents/ju_mag_01071997_p-19_en.html

“I know the new Pope personally. I have had the honor of meeting him several times over the years in Rome. He is a very humble, personable man, quite different from the hard-line “enforcer” image which is often portrayed of him.”

http://www.zenit.org/article-12786?l=english

“St. Bernard defines it: “A virtue by which a man knowing himself as he truly is, abases himself.” ” http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/07543b.htm

Resources Used

Vatican site

Catechism of the Catholic Church

http://www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p4s2a2.htm

http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/_P9S.HTM

http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/_P1K.HTM

http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/__P9Q.HTM

http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/_P3I.HTM

Catechism of the Catholic Church- Compendium

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

Jubilee

http://www.vatican.va/jubilee_2000/magazine/documents/ju_mag_01071997_p-19_en.html

Zenit News

http://www.zenit.org/rssenglish-21071

http://www.zenit.org/article-12786?l=english

New Jerusalem Bible on Catholic Online

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=57

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=40&bible_chapter=11

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=36&bible_chapter=2

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=15&bible_chapter=8

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=45&bible_chapter=12

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=40&bible_chapter=21

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=47&bible_chapter=10

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=19&bible_chapter=18

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. Love is the action, and force behind such, which is credited as the very nature of God.
2. Charity- that love shown in I Corinthians 13, which is the focus of the Christian life, and a driving factor.
3. “Love is obedient to the command”. The state in which the Christian acts in the nature of God (”In his name” has references whereby one’s name and nature are intrinsically connected in the biblical society)
4. That which is demanded of a Christian, and demonstrated, via the actions of Jewish old Law, as well as the Law of Liberty.
5. Love is one of the three remainders after all else passes. The other two, are based on unseen things, and will either fade or change in nature when the time comes.

Commands in love

“The law is summed in love”, love is the point and nature of the commands. It is the universal command for all Christians, and involves justice (”Love is not happy with evil, but is happy with truth” from I Corinthians 13).

Love and Justice

Love acts in justice, placing all in their right place, and rendering onto others as is their due, so far as it is able. As “God is Love”, his actions are the blueprint of love, within his position. His nature, of love- is that which controls his actions. It is not that God is unable to do the impossible, rather- his action is based in love.

Love and discernment

It is not considered loving should one not attempt to aid the salvation of others, either via living as Christ did, or by testifying to him via words and deeds. While wrong judgement is condemned, which degrades another, by mere appearances, prudence and discernment are fruits of virtue. Prudence sees the situation, and uses it to aid his brother and himself.

 Love is active and of God

 The bible notes that both the liars in word and those in deed will find a place in hell. This shows that the testimony of love, must not purely be in words(1 John 3 v 18), but also deeds. The gospel is preached in action and in words (Luke 12 verses 8 and 9). A life of love is thereby (Luke 12 verses 8 and 9) vital to salvation.

Theological virtues

Love, hope and faith, are all elements and manifestations of the salvic process, and of God’s grace.

Tolerance is the allowance of an event to occur or a situation to exist.

Tolerance is the allowance of an event to occur or a situation to exist.

Limits of Tolerance

Tolerance and duty must never collide for the Christian. Tolerance can be and must be afforded in some circumstance, but can never be allowed and must never compromise the salvation of souls, or if afforded, the institutions of truth and Justice. Tolerance for certain things, however- such as the choice to with informed conscience, choose or reject grace, is given.

1. The Catholic View of tolerance- tolerance or intolerance, depending on the circumstance can both be either correct or incorrect. In their extremes- both can be evil. Tolerance of evil can itself be intrinsically evil- such as conniving. Intolerance can also be evil, as shown in the Pharisees naming Jesus the “friend of sinners”.
2. Tolerance can never be given in opposition to her mandate or duty to God (James chapter 4 verse 4). It may neither water down beyond meaning, the truth, nor hault in the telling of the gospel as it is, for merely human kindness. Tolerance must be based on love, which acts in obedience to the commands of God(I John  3), and cannot be purely out of fear.

Three types of tolerance

-theoretical dogmatic tolerance

- Practical civic tolerance

 - Public political tolerance

Theoretical dogmatic tolerance

Tolerance of another’s error, because it is a mistake, and not an intentional harm against truth, or other factors. This is acceptance of the person beneficial.

Practical civic tolerance

 “Love the sinner, not the sin”

-Acceptance and charity towards the sinner despite his fault. This does not mean not combating his error, or the consequences of his sin. It does not mean that retribution is not given should the case require such.

Public political tolerance

Tolerance given by states to religions, out of respect of equality.

 Some manifestations  of both beneifical and unbeneficial tolerance

1. Universal Religious Toleration- Allowance of beliefs contrary to what one considers to be truth- out of respect for the idea that religion, unlike certain aspects of morality is a choice which should be free from absolute coercion, or forceful conversion. This is an example of charity, and the acceptance of a person despite their faults.
2. Personal Religious Toleration- Toleration of the beliefs of others, without surrender of one’s own belief, in such a way as to respect their human person, and dignity. This should not extend to the allowance of open scandal, nor the allowance of diabolic, or hateful, or bigotrous views to be stated as loudly, or widely as the religion, or peoples or individuals in question should choose, as this damages the choice of others.
3. The tolerance of evils or damaging views contrary to truth, do to an inability to correct them.
4. The incorrect unwillingness to prevent evil.
5. Toleration of the views and beliefs of others out of respect for those following such religion, but not endorsement of their actions, or views- either due to the conscience of others and action of charity, or due to unwarranted and incorrect kindness.

Universal Religious Tolerance

This is an example of charity, and the acceptance of a person despite their faults.Tolerance of the choice of whether or not to become Christian, is both acceptable, beneficial, and in some cases demanded, however- should one claim to be Christian, this same person must submit to some core doctrines. This form of tolerance does not extend to allowing such persons to coerce others against religion, nor does it extend to only informing others of what fits their world view, or comfort zone. It does however demand the treating of other religions, especially Abrahamic Religions, with respect. As the Apostle Paul states in rebuke of some -”do you steal from temples?”. This respect is again shown in that the Christian must not eat foods dedicated to idols- out of respect for the conscience of those who could fall from such. Paul also shows this in becoming like the Gentiles among the gentiles and like the Jews among the Jews- that they may be saved, but in this, does not disobey the Law of Liberty. This tolerance does not extend to allowing grave, unjust harm to others, nor does it demand that the gospel not be preached, just the contrary. Rather- it demands degrees of respect of fellow human persons, as children of God, despite their private beliefs. In this, charity is shown, yet the example of the church in ecumenical  works shows that this is best done in respect, humility, and truth. Humbly sharing the truth in love, without rejecting aspects of the truth that exist also outside of the fullness, nor treating non-Christians as lesser beings. This does not mean the watering down of Catholic truth for the desires of others, nor does this mean that God does not later judge all for their deeds on earth and their acceptance or rejection of church and gospel (Luke chapter 10 verse 16).

Personal Religious Toleration

Neither the body of the Holy Catholic Church, nor her members, may in any way coerce another into Christianity, via force, at the same end, the Christian must uphold his own faith, even publicly- “Should you accept me in front of men, I will accept you in front of the angels of God, but if you reject me in front of men, I will reject you in front of the angels of God” Jesus Of Nazareth(Luke 12 verses 8 and 9). The Christian’s life, and words, must testify as to the nature of God, and his truth. This does not afford others the opportunity to appose the church’s madate, nor allow foir these people to prevent justice and truth.

The tolerance of evils or damaging views contrary to truth, do to an inability to correct them

This is considered more as patience as any other thing. It is prudent action in not acting in unbeneficial ways. This toleration is acceptable (I Corinthians 13 verse 4), so far as it does not lend to the extreme of simple unwillingness to act.

The incorrect unwillingness to prevent evil

Should it be in the power of one to prevent evil, or the harm of souls, against scandal, or other, even in cases physical harm, and one should not act, this inaction is not acceptable. It contradicts love of neighbor, and risks punishment (James chapter 4 verse 4; “the good man who gives in to evil is like a muddy well” Proverbs) and testimony contrary to justice (”love is not happy with evil, but is happy with truth” I Corinthians 13 verse 6).

Toleration of the views and beliefs of others out of respect for those following such religion, but not endorsement of their actions, or views- either due to the conscience of others and action of charity, or due to unwarranted and incorrect kindness.

Christians are obligated to treat every other person as another self. This extends to respecting their choice of religion, but does not mean that one is obligated to endorse incorrect views, or actions. This does not mean that one should allow evil, scandal or horrendous action to occur, but is rather a respect of the private beliefs of others, and treatment of such persons with the respect they are due, as fellow creations of God.The administration of Tolerance must never extend to allowing unjust harm to others within one’s own domain and ability to prevent such. Toleration, cannot contradict justice, but must be subject to the demands of love. Kindness to oppressors, can be cruelty to the oppressed, and result in harsh judgment (see James chapter 4 verse 4).

Intolerance against Catholics

Jesus noted that his followers would be persecuted. John, in I John said that Christians should not be surprised if they are hated, because they are Christian. It is noted that Christians are persecuted because of their inheritance. This is to be taken with Jesus’ statement in mind – “blessed are you when people persecute you”, and demonstrates that Christianity is in fact true. This in that such persecution is both illogical, and constant since the time of Christ against the church, and continues in almost every country. This however does not justify persecution, which should be apposed, and fought as best as possible in legitimate areas. 

A place for Catholics to show intolerance

The Christian is not forced, nor in some cases permitted to tolerate certain actions of others. These include certain actions that harm the body of the church, cause scandal, or unjustly harm those who are innocent of crime. One example of this, is the right of the church to combat heresy within the church. ”But such intolerance is essential to all that is, or moves, or lives, for tolerance of destructive elements within the organism amounts to suicide.”

 http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/07256b.htm

Verses of note

Luke Chapter 16 Wrong use of goods, and power given to one’s self.

Luke Chapter 10 Rejection of church is punished.

James chapter 4 verse 4 Tolerance must never contradict the demands of love. 

I Corinthians Chapter 13 All action must be done in love.

Resources used

 Zenit news

http://www.zenit.org/article-19609?l=english

Catholic Online

http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=42&bible_chapter=10

http://www.catholic.org/featured/headline.php?ID=5201 

NewAdvent

http://www.newadvent.org/bible/luk016.htm

http://www.newadvent.org/bible/1co013.htm 

http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/07256b.htm 

http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/14763a.htm  

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/

1. State of decay.
2. Process, action or effect of moral decay.
3. The process whereby real spiritual beings and creation becomes less real, to the extent that over eternity, it loses the ability to exist in the presence of God. This decay is due to the perversion of good.
4. The natural decay of all visible, “physical” things after the advent of Original Sin.

Sacraments and The cure of corruption

God entered our world, and died, and rose again to “undo the work of the Devil”(1 john chapter 3 verse 8). By the hearing of the Gospel, and obedience to the church, which represents God on earth, we are given the grace to fight corruption via the sacraments, so long as we obey. The sacraments are about obedience. We obey God, and trust him, via the One True Church, and in return gain grace, which enables us to fight sin (Romans chapter 8 verse 13; I Timothy3 verses 14-16).

Reality to come

“when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away” (1 Corinthians 13 v10)
Biblical Decay

Due to the work of evil-The bible mentions a resulting decay, whereby due to an ability to sin, and the enmity with God caused by both original and personal sin, man gradually becomes a lesser spiritual being, haven “fallen” from his original grace. Being cut off from grace, by sin, man comes under the Devil’s domain (1 john chapter 3 verse 1), having been perverted and corrupted beyond worthiness in heaven. The cure to this, both lies in Baptism, and the Sacrament of the church, which saves people from the corruption of the world, and reverses (in this life and purgatory) the process whereby man, over eternity would become utmost corrupt and evil, and utterly repulsive to God, thereby deserving hell, for what he is, and the infinitely corrupt being he is to become.

Integrity

Integrity is the lack of corruption. It is the maintaining and stability in such of a structure. To have integrity is to not give in to corruption.

God’s Name and Integrity

God’s name YHWH (Yahweh) is thought to mean “I Am Who I AM” this name has many meanings, one of which is shown by Jesus, in calling himself “I AM”.

God does not change, or cede to corruption. He cannot decay. It could also be thought that the name “I Am” refers to existence, and true reality. The devil is known as the deceiver and god of change, and Father of lies. God could be seen as reality,while the devil represents illusion. That which is in God becomes more real, to the extent that it exists as Holy and separate forever. That which follows the devil, will become less “real”, to the extent that the soul cannot exist in heaven. The fight between church and world is between that which is “fading away”(The world and all that is of it) and that which cannot fade (The goodness in the church, which is the foretaste, and embodiment of Heaven on Earth).
Angels or Demons

According to the views of some:

The human person thereby is on a process, either to become like the angels(Luke Chapter 20 verse 36), or like devils (Job chapter 11 verse 20;Psalm 48 verse 15) whereby he becomes utterly immoral(like a devil), or truly Holy(like the angels) in the end (See C.S. Lewis- Mere Christianity).

Saved from corruption:

“ Through these, the greatest and priceless promises have been lavished on us, that through them you should share the divine nature and escape the corruption rife in the world through disordered passion. “II Peter Chapter 1Verse 4 New Jerusalem Bible http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=59
Catechism on corruption

“77. What other consequences derive from original sin?

405-409
418

In consequence of original sin human nature, without being totally corrupted, is wounded in its natural powers. It is subject to ignorance, to suffering, and to the dominion of death and is inclined toward sin. This inclination is called concupiscence.” compendium

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

“401 After that first sin, the world is virtually inundated by sin There is Cain’s murder of his brother Abel and the universal corruption which follows in the wake of sin. Likewise, sin frequently manifests itself in the history of Israel, especially as infidelity to the God of the Covenant and as transgression of the Law of Moses. and even after Christ’s atonement, sin raises its head in countless ways among Christians.²⁸⁷ Scripture and the Church’s Tradition continually recall the presence and universality of sin in man’s history:”

http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/_P1C.HTM

“2284 Scandal is an attitude or behavior which leads another to do evil. the person who gives scandal becomes his neighbor’s tempter. He damages virtue and integrity; he may even draw his brother into spiritual death. Scandal is a grave offense if by deed or omission another is deliberately led into a grave offense.”

http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/_P80.HTM

Scripture and Corruption

God notes “My word will not fade away” and of the church it is the “pillar and foundation of truth” (I Timothy 3 verses 14 to 16) and “the gates of hades will not overcome it” the core message of Christianity can never change. While it can be expanded, it may never contradict the original message, or the interpretation of the original church. The church, also- cannot cede to the corruption of our world. It’s decisions are safeguarded when acting as Christ as to doctrine and morals (Acts 15) and God is the head of the church. Paul notes those “cut off from the head”, and that “divisions in the church are evil” of schisms, and so- the original church must still exist, for the righteous would never abandon it, but remain in it, for “it is wrong to do evil that good may result”, and it is the body of the church that fights heresy, and safeguards the truth(I Timothy 3 verses 14 to 16; 1 John 2 v 19), those who left it over so-called heresy left as those who are not of it. God would not cause one to steal from his original church to safeguard his word against and from it.

Resources

http://www.ewtn.com/library/PAPALDOC/jp2tb51.htm