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.

Contraception, once accepted as evil by almost all Christians, has been largely credited with the degradation in the respect for human life, the large divorce rate, as well as problems such as the shortage of priests. It is intrinsically evil, as it contradicts natural law, by engaging in actions contrary to the laws, and ways God created in which sexuality can take place. There are certain methods of minimizing pregnancy permitted by the church – The most famous is known as Natural Family planning. These generally prevent childbirth, but with the allowance for accepting a child should God give one.

 Catechism on Chastity

“2337 Chastity means the successful integration of sexuality within the person and thus the inner unity of man in his bodily and spiritual being. Sexuality, in which man’s belonging to the bodily and biological world is expressed, becomes personal and truly human when it is integrated into the relationship of one person to another, in the complete and lifelong mutual gift of a man and a woman.”

http://www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p3s2c2a6.htm

Church forbids Artificial Contraception

The church forbids artificial contraception such as the use of condoms expressively as intrinsically evil.

Onan

This is furthered by God striking down Onan for spilling his seed outside the proper place. Arguments that he was struck down for refusing to give the widow a baby, as the law required him to attempt, are debunked by the punishment of such being public shame, not death. God struck Onan down.

 Cutting off the manhood

Those who cut off their penis’s and forced themselves to not be able to reproduce in the old testament were excluded from Israel and considered dirty (Deuteronomy Chapter 23 verse 2).

Genesis and God’s chance to contracieve

In Genesis, God ignores the direct opportunity for preventing evil from being born into the world. He makes it’s birth unlikely by warning Adam and Eve, but still allows the probable chance (Genesis chapter 3). This results in the fallen state of man, and our current existence as the human family. Whether modern society would exist without this disobedience that was allowed and resulted in their later deaths, and immediate separation from God, or whether we would exist in a higher form, is not sure, but the argument that man should be able to plan his family is baseless, especially considering the cost God paid for allowing the chance for death to be born from his creation, and for his preferred choice to be rejected.

Contraception violates the covenant

This is furthered by Jesus’ statement- ”let no man separate what God has combined”, whereby God combines the husband and wife as one flesh via their marriage. Further, if Natural Law, and the purpose of God is that contraceptives are not to be used, with the exception of certain natural methods, then man should not presume that he is wiser than God (see I Corinthians 3 v 20). History has showed, that when contraception is allowed in different religions, it results in higher divorce rates. Also, the idea that a couple can control life, and gain great pleasure without possible sacrifice, prevents a great testimony as to God’s sacrifice on the cross, for a family that is broken- not of his fault, but due to Adam and Eve. Christian marriage is directly instituted by God, and as the soul forms uniquely at conception, such shown the direct act of God in creating a baby. Preventing a child from forming is preventing the direct action of God (Isaiah chapter 44 verse 2; Psalm 139 verse 13 to 14; Psalm 51 verse 5; Jeremiah chapter 1 verse 5;Isaiah 49 verse 1 and 5;Galations 1 verse 15; Job chapter 41 verse 15- see EWTN).

Rejecting God’s will and a gift from him

The child is a gift from God, and planned by him. God controls fate, time and existence (Ephesians chapter 1 verses 11 to 15), thereby- to make it impossible to have a child, violates faith, rejects a gift from God, and demonstrates the state of self-centredness and self importance that separated man from God in the first place (Genesis 3) whereby man determined to create his own truth, and rule his own life.

(children shown as a gift- Genesis Chapter  15 Verse 5;Genesis Chapter  17 Verse 4;Genesis Chapter  17 Verses 15-16; Psalm 127 verse 3)

“3:20. And again: The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain. ” I Corinthians 3 v 20

http://www.newadvent.org/bible/1co003.htm

“5:31. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother: and shall cleave to his wife. And they shall be two in one flesh. “Ephesians 5 v 31

http://www.newadvent.org/bible/eph005.htm

“¹¹ Now I want to make it quite clear to you, brothers, about the gospel that was preached by me, that it was no human message. ¹² It was not from any human being that I received it, and I was not taught it, but it came to me through a revelation of Jesus Christ. “New Jerusalem Bible (Galations Chapter 1)http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=48Definition

The purpose of revelation

Revalation is purposed for the edification and cementing of our consistent salvation, and for our benefit, and the benefit of our relations with others and God. Revealed facts are those things that we can only see with the aid of Grace. These include the mysteries of faith.

“¹⁰ This salvation was the subject of the search and investigation of the prophets who spoke of the grace you were to receive,¹¹ searching out the time and circumstances for which the Spirit of Christ, bearing witness in them, was revealing the sufferings of Christ and the glories to follow them.¹² It was revealed to them that it was for your sake and not their own that they were acting as servants delivering the message which has now been announced to you by those who preached to you the gospel through the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even the angels long to catch a glimpse of these things.

¹³ Your minds, then, must be sober and ready for action; put all your hope in the grace brought to you by the revelation of Jesus Christ. “(I Peter 1- New Jerusalem Bible) (emboldment added)http://www.catholic.org/bible/book.php?id=58 

All information needed for salvation- was completely in form by the death of the last apostle. The revelation of the bible, and Apostles- was public revelation- and given to all persons who where to come to knowing/normal salvation. There is no longer need for further Public revelation, as God has revealed all that was necessary for the general salvation.

Private Revelation

“Public revelation is binding on all Christians, but private revelation is binding only on those who receive it. The Catholic Church teaches that public revelation was completed, and therefore was concluded, with the death of the last apostle (Vatican II, Dei Verbum 4), but private revelation has continued.“ http://www.catholic.com/library/Private_Revelation.asp

All remaining revelation is known as private revelation. This allows for deeper understanding of faith- and aid salvation- especially as st.Paul said – “Should I or an angel preach to you a different gospel- he should be condemned”, and again it is said- “Hold to the faith you originally heard” and that we should not be blown by every wind of teaching, or by plausable lies- for the new covenant was “once and for all handeddown to” us, and cannot alter nor change, it must be constant and consistent and existent since the days of Jesus, and privately in the heart of God before such. The revelation of God, like the church- can never, since it went out- change in its substance (”my word will not fade away”).

“67 Throughout the ages, there have been so-called “private” revelations, some of which have been recognized by the authority of the Church. They do not belong, however, to the deposit of faith. It is not their role to improve or complete Christ’s definitive Revelation, but to help live more fully by it in a certain period of history. Guided by the Magisterium of the Church, the sensus fidelium knows how to discern and welcome in these revelations whatever constitutes an authentic call of Christ or his saints to the Church. Christian faith cannot accept “revelations” that claim to surpass or correct the Revelation of which Christ is the fulfillment, as is the case in certain non-Christian religions and also in certain recent sects which base themselves on such “revelations”.” Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC)

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

“For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.” (Colossians 1:9) NIV (protestant- not catholic) bible 

Catholic theology

As God is almighty- and greater than us- we understand- that what he knows is greater than anything else. He has the power to show himself to us or not. Catholic theology is often critisized for it’s listening approach- whereby it bases itself largely- if not solely on revelation and logic in relation to such. In all honesty- however- this is the only logical method- we can’t interview God- we have to plead for an answer- and if needed- wait and listen to it. Theology thereby only covers what God desires us to know about him. It is not so much our efforts- as his.

Extent of revelation

As tradition (the unaltering interpretation of the message of God by the early- to modern church (”hold the message you heard from the begining”)) is required to interpret the scriptures- with God’s help- the church largely studies the early writings when interpreting verses in context of the times and context of the original writing. Private revelation- especially in clarifying such is also useful. God speaks via nature, via society, via systems and rules he allowed into being, and via scripture and our fellow men’s language and actions. Theology is not a realm for personal interpretation. It is not an art, but a science- it studies reality- thereby the piles of documents used by the church- are quite vital, as well as the guidance God gives the pope and magisterium- especially in the Ecunumical councils (see acts 15). Theology pertains eternal truths, and rests on the solid foundation of Papal infallibility. Whithout such- the word would be subject to any personal interpretation, and to the whims of every foundation. “The church is the pillar and foundation of the truth” ( one of St. Paul’s Epistles) and only from this foundation- from the very body of God’s son- can we venture into the dangerous realm of theology.

 Theology is constant- it cannot be based on personal views

Newness, or novelty- is the food of heresy, such is not the aim of love which is truth. Orthodoxy and consistency is the aim of any loyal theologian. He furthers this with building on firm foundations, set by all before him- clarifying the known truths that have not altered in all eternity, as well as those which are traced back to the begining and to Jesus- yet outside of time- are also eternal. Theology must be done within the meaning and confines of the church. The Catholic encyclopedia has at least 100 000 articles, the catechism also is large. This is a firm foundation, along with the councils and many other tools- for the furthering of theology. God himself teaches the Christian- via the truth of the church, which is his body, or sometimes via other revelation. Theology is not subject to whim, but rather to truth.

“103. What has been revealed to us is that the ordinary way of salvation is by the sacrament of Baptism. None of the above considerations should be taken as qualifying the necessity of Baptism or justifying delay in administering the sacrament.[135] Rather, as we want to reaffirm in conclusion, they provide strong grounds for hope that God will save infants when we have not been able to do for them what we would have wished to do, namely, to baptize them into the faith and life of the Church.“

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

Exploring ideas

It seems unlikely that God should either accept or reject a life- who has not had the chance of choice, especially if they cannot fulfill (with any possibility) the requirements of baptism of desire.

Augustine

Augustine thereby penned the idea of limbo- whereby unbaptized children (infants), having died, are neither in heaven nor hell- if they are not baptised, but eternally in between, but this has never been official doctrine.

Some possibilities

- God- being in control of time, and destiny, yet allowing choice- would know which choices a child would have made- and whether it was an object of Mercy or Wrath thereby- allowing him to choose to be merciful or show his wrath.

-The children could have been placed on another realm- like “prison”, where they could be given choice.

- God could place these children in limbo.

 Other possibilities

- God could send them strait to heaven

- God could condemn them to hell (unpopular view).

Ultimate answer

Without direct revelation- we cannot say what God does in this matter- but only pray for those dead before baptism- especially those who died because of abortion, or other contraceptive methods- after having been conceived.