Definitions

Jesus

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

Christ

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

Jesus name for himself

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

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

Lamb of God

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

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

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

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

Actual Presence in valid Eucharist

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

Sacraments

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

Jesus as the church

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

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

Prophesy and personal interpretation

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

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

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

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

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

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

Place of church

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

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

The gift of the saints

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

The gift of church guided conscience

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

Resources

New Advent (on prophesy)

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

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

On Jehovah’s Witnesses

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

Eternal Word Television Network

Interpreting the bible

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

New Jerusalme Bible

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

Other Links

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

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

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

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

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

Definition

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

Civil authority

What is meant by such:

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

catechism :

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

Where authority is not valid:

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

Bible on authority

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

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

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

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

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

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

Conclusion

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

New Jerusalem Bible (II Corinthians Chapter 13)

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

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

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

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

New Jerusalem Bible (I Timothy Chapter 2)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Jerusalem Bible (Luke Chapter 2)

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

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

Other Authority and domains of the Roman Apostolic Catholic Church

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

Limit of the Authority of Rome

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

Doctrinal authority

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

Authority of God

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

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

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

The good are punished- that they may become pure.

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

Spiritual Authority

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

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

Conscience and natural Law

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

The Family

Limit of obediance.

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

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

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

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

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

Further Resources

Vatican

Catechism

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

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

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

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

New Advent

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

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

EWTN

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

This Rock

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

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

Details

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

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

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

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

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

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

Further resources

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

On extra ecclesiam nulla salus

Resources

This Rock Magazine

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

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

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

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

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

www.catholic.com/newsletters/kke_040113.asp

Eternal Word Television Network

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

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

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

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

Vatican

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Valid links contradicting the Feeneyist view are:

Unbaptised children

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

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

Vatican

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

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

Eternal Word Television Network

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Advent- Catholic Encyclopedia

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

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

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

Catholic Online

Catholic Encyclopedia

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

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

United States Council Of Catholic Bishops

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

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

www.usccb.org/seia/southernbaptist.shtml

This Rock- www.catholic.com

www.catholic.com/library/Papal_Infallibility.asp

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“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.

1. Infallibility- state of being - ability to be-

 free from error in certain circumstances.

Catholic Definition

1. Infallibility- The ability and guidance given to the Pope, and promised to the church- by God- safeguarding all “From the Chair” decisions- so far as they relate to Doctrine and morals. Infallibility only extends as far as these statements go, and is only in relation to subjects pertaining our spiritual edification.
2. Infallibility is not- applicable to the every day decisions of the pope- and the pope’s actions are not infallible- though probably more protected than most. The decision must be an official “From the Chair of Peter” decision, or that of an ecumenical council in obedience to the pope.

Why it is needed

Peter notes in his epistles- that the untaught pervert the scriptures- to their own destruction. It is also noted that Jesus opened the minds of his apostles to the scriptures. God also told Peter to take care of his sheep. If we did not need to be taken care of- God would not have said so.

How we have the bible

The 73 books of the bible, were accepted by A.D. 393 at the council of hippo. This was decreed by the authority of the church as shown in Acts chapter 15.

Bible on infallibility

Jesus noted that some hypocrites searched the scriptures- thinking they held salvation- but rejected him- salvation- when he was standing in front of them. Clearly- the scriptures needed to be interpreted correctly. (John 5 v 36-40)

God is also noted as prophesying via the High priest who demanded his crucifixion (John 11 v 51) the bible states that this was because of his position. This is furthered by Jesus’ command that his disciples should do as the hypocritical Pharisees said, but not what they did. This because they held the seat of moses. One must note that they were only to be accepted because God ordained them. It is only because the church is validly Apostolic- and not just claiming to be- that Catholics obey the Pope.

The Apostles, further- replaced Judas- showing succession- which is also recorded in the church Fathers- hundreds of years before Protestants existed. The bible shows this in the following(Acts 1 v 20) where Judas is replaced using a “Lot”. It is important that they did not get others to vote him in, but relied on God to choose- as the modern church does.

The church is further aided, and claims to be aided directly by God- in dealing with the Circumcision heresy (Acts 15 v 19,22-30) – despite discussing it themselves.

Peter, and others in their words, or in the case of St.Paul- their letters- also seem to claim to be infallible. Peter said that someone who lied to him had lied to God- he was not claiming to be God- but to represent him- in his office (his doctrine- he could still sin) infallibly (Acts 5 v 4).

Quotes on bible courtesy of http://scripturelink.googlepages.com/scripturalproofs

Resources on Papal Infallibility

Vatican

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

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

Eternal Word Television Network

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Advent- Catholic Encyclopedia

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

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

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

Catholic Online

Catholic Encyclopedia

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

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

United States Council Of Catholic Bishops

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

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

www.usccb.org/seia/southernbaptist.shtml

This Rock- www.catholic.com

www.catholic.com/library/Papal_Infallibility.asp

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Concerning this doctrine the Pope of Vatican I, Pius IX, spoke on two different occasions. In an allocution (address to an audience) on December 9th, 1854 he said:

We must hold as of the faith, that out of the Apostolic Roman Church there is no salvation; that she is the only ark of safety, and whosoever is not in her perishes in the deluge; we must also, on the other hand, recognize with certainty that those who are invincible in ignorance of the true religion are not guilty for this in the eyes of the Lord. And who would presume to mark out the limits of this ignorance according to the character and diversity of peoples, countries, minds and the rest?” 

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

Extra Ecclesiam nulla salus

“The Catholic Church is “the single and exclusive channel by which the truth and grace of Christ enter our world of space and time” (Karl Adam, The Spirit of Catholicism, 179). Those who do not know the Church, even those who fight against it, can receive these gifts if they honestly seek God and his truth. But, Adam says, “though it be not the Catholic Church itself that hands them the bread of truth and grace, yet it is Catholic bread that they eat.” And when they eat of it, “without knowing it or willing it” they are “incorporated in the supernatural substance of the Church.”” http://www.catholic.com/thisrock/2005/0512fea3.asp

The church dogmatically declares that outside the working of the church – there is no salvation.

The Catholic church has recently reaffirmed the need for the Catholic church in order for souls to be saved

Non-Christians can be saved?- but only by baptism of Desire of Martyrdom, or the mercy of God

Baptism of desire states

Every man who is ignorant of the gospel of Christ and of his Church but seeks the truth and does the will of God in accordance with his understanding of it can be saved. It may be supposed that such persons would have desired baptism explicitly if they had known its necessity (CCC 1260).

“<Lumen gentium> #16 says: “For they who without their own fault do not
know of the Gospel of Christ and His Church, but yet seek God with sincere
heart, and try, under the influence of grace, to carry out His will in
practice, known to them through the dictate of conscience, can attain
eternal salvation.” ” http://www.ewtn.com/expert/answers/outside_the_church.htm

“Again, in his encyclical Quanto conficiamur moerore of 10 August, 1863 addressed to the Italian bishops, he said:

It is known to us and to you that those who are in invincible ignorance of our most holy religion, but who observe carefully the natural law, and the precepts graven by God upon the hearts of all men, and who being disposed to obey God lead an honest and upright life, may, aided by the light of divine grace, attain to eternal life; for God who sees clearly, searches and knows the heart, the disposition, the thoughts and intentions of each, in His supreme mercy and goodness by no means permits that anyone suffer eternal punishment, who has not of his own free will fallen into sin.” http://www.ewtn.com/expert/answers/outside_the_church.htm

But clarifying this- Pope John Paul II said

“For those too who through no fault of their own do not know Christ and are not recognized as Christians, the divine plan has provided a way of salvation. As we read in the Council’s Decree Ad Gentes, we believe that “God in ways known to himself can lead those inculpably ignorant of the Gospel” to the faith necessary for salvation (AG 7). Certainly, the condition “inculpably ignorant” cannot be verified nor weighed by human evaluation, but must be left to the divine judgment alone. For this reason, the Council states in the Constitution Gaudium et Spes that in the heart of every man of good will, “Grace works in an unseen way…. The Holy Spirit in a manner known only to God offers to every man the possibility of being associated with this paschal mystery” (GS 22).”

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

Those who reject the church

They cannot be saved who, knowing that the Catholic Church was founded as necessary by God through Christ, would refuse either to enter it or remain in it (cf. LG 14).

Another way of putting it 

Extra ecclesiam nulla salus, could therefore be seen, not as a declaration outside the church, but a declaration of the place of the church. “Outside the works, and existence of the Catholic church- there is no salvation” may be better wording, but the church clarified their position, after a situation with a Fr. Feeney who declared that those not card carrying members of the church- would not be saved. After Feeney relentlessly pursued his doctrine, he was summoned several times to Rome, but was excommunicated after he refused. In response, the church declared the following.

Church’s response

The doctrine was true, but should be interpreted as the church decrees.

Why Evangelism is still needed

Even if some may be saved apart from the usual channels, these are the exceptions, and in great danger, not knowing how important their current state of unknown grace is. Pope John Paul II, states, that even though they may, on their deaths, for obeying conscience- be saved- they are in a place of darkness, and hunger. Charity obligates the Christian to aid those who are spiritually poor as these are, and we must not put the Lord, or his mercy to the Test. Even if there are exceptions to th rule, we must not be vain enough to rely only on the exceptions.

The Feeneyist interpretation

As we have stated, a Fr. Feeney believed that the official doctrine of the Church was open to personal interpretation, and declared that this doctrine excluded all, including unbaptised babies from salvation, if they were not card carrying catholics. He broke his personal vow of obedience to the pope, by refusing several summons to Rome, and was excommunicated for disobedience. His followers, the Feeneyists, still hold his doctrine. (see our article on Feeney), dispite subsiquent splits.

Resources

This Rock Magazine

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

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

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

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

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

www.catholic.com/newsletters/kke_040113.asp

Eternal Word Television Network

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

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

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

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

Vatican 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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