Monday, November 22, 2010
SELECT “CATHOLIC” VERSES
1. John 6:50-69 (The Eucharist)
This is the bread which comes down from heaven, that a man may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if any one eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread which I shall give for the life of the world is my flesh."
The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying, "How can this man give us his flesh to eat?"
So Jesus said to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, you have no life in you; he who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so he who eats me will live because of me. This is the bread which came down from heaven, not such as the fathers ate and died; he who eats this bread will live forever." This he said in the synagogue, as he taught at Caperna-um.
Many of his disciples, when they heard it, said, "This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?" But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples murmured at it, said to them, "Do you take offense at this? Then what if you were to see the Son of man ascending where he was before? It is the spirit that gives life, the flesh is of no avail; the words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. But there are some of you that do not believe." For Jesus knew from the first who those were that did not believe, and who it was that should betray him. And he said, "This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father."
After this many of his disciples drew back and no longer went about with him. Jesus said to the twelve, "Will you also go away?" Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life; and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God." FOUR TIMES Jesus says “eat my flesh and drink my blood.”
“…the flesh is of no avail…” Truth. The flesh alone is not sufficient for eternal life. It’s when the flesh is united with the “soul, spirit and divinity” of our Lord which makes the flesh life-giving.
When the disciples are leaving does Jesus say: “Wait wait, I’m just speaking metaphorically about the Faith you must have to follow me!!!” ? No. IF and WHEN Jesus sometimes spoke cryptically, through parables, etc., Jesus made sure his disciples understood what he meant so they could teach his Word: “[P]rivately to his own disciples he explained everything.” Mark 4:34. Jesus speaks very clearly here. “For my flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed.” John 6:55. If speaking only metaphorically, why doesn’t Jesus say “I’m not being literal.” Jesus would not leave such an important passage to conflicting interpretation.
2. 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 (The Eucharist)
The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread. “cup of blessing”: The traditional name for the “third” of four ritual cups of wine consumed at the Jewish Passover meal. ICSB, 1 Cor 10:16-17. It is this cup that Jesus blessed and consecrated at the Passover of the Last Supper and made the Eucharistic cup of the New Covenant. Id.
“participation”: Eucharistic Communion unites believers with Christ and with one another. Id. These two blessings are related inasmuch as the Sacrament of Christ’s Body and Blood is what continues to mold us into the ecclesial Body of Christ. Id.
3. 1 Corinthians 11:2, 20, 27-34 (Tradition & The Eucharist)
I commend you because you remember me in everything and maintain the traditions even as I have delivered them to you.
When you meet together, it is not the Lord's supper that you eat.
Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of profaning the body and blood of the Lord. Let a man examine himself, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For any one who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment upon himself. That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. But if we judged ourselves truly, we should not be judged. But when we are judged by the Lord, we are chastened so that we may not be condemned along with the world. So then, my brethren, when you come together to eat, wait for one another -- if any one is hungry, let him eat at home -- lest you come together to be condemned. About the other things I will give directions when I come. “unworthy”: Receiving Eucharistic Communion can be an act of sacrilege and self-condemnation if done in a state of serious (mortal) sin. St. Paul is clearly regarding the Eucharist as more than a mere “symbol.”
“examine himself”: Paul’s teaching implies a close connection between the Eucharist and Reconciliation (Jn 20:23).
4. Matthew 16:17-19 (Peter = Petros = Cephas = The Rock & The Keys to the Kingdom of Heaven)
And Jesus answered him, "Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jona! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the powers of death shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." “you are Peter [“Petros” – Greek; “Cephas” – Aramaic], and on this rock [“petra” – Greek; “cephas” – Aramaic] I will build my church”
“KEYS”: First century Christians knew Jesus was referring Isaiah 22:22. “the Keys of the Kingdom” refer to what the Prime Minister holds (1) UNDER the King, but (2) OVER the cabinet of royal ministers.
Catholic and Protestant scholars agree. “Keys” represented authority over the other cabinet members (other Apostles) and dynastic (Apostolic) succession.
Isaiah 22: Under King Hezekiah was the Prime Minister, Shebna. He became unworthy of his office. He was deposed and in his office he is replaced by Eliakim. Eliakim then becomes Prime Minister and Vizier in Hezekiah’s Kingdom, and Eliakim is given the keys to show that he has more authority than the other ministers.
Jesus raises up 12 ministers as royal officers. In Matthew 19:28 Jesus tells them they will “sit on twelve thrones.” They have royal power. But of the 12 there is only ONE that has “the Keys,” the PRIME minister, Peter, and the Keys of the Kingdom signify his PRIMACY.
Dynastic Succession. Hezekiah will be replaced by another king when he dies. So will the Prime Minister. The office of Prime Minister is vacant and must be filled = Apostolic Succession.
Acts 1:15-26: “His office let another take.” (RSV & NKJV). KJV: “his bishoprick let another take.” NIV: “place of leadership.” NLT: “someone else take his position.”
These verses explain the truth of Papal and Church infallibility. The Prime Minister and Vizier speaks for the King.
5. 1 Timothy 3:15 (The Church, the pillar and bulwark of the truth.)
if I am delayed, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and bulwark of the truth. There is only one Church that claims to be the pillar and foundation of Truth.
NAB, NIV & NLT: “This is the church of the living God, which is the pillar and foundation of the truth.” ; KJV “pillar and ground”. ESV: “pillar and buttress”. Message Bible: “bastion of truth”.
6. 2 Thessalonians 2:15 & 3:6 (Authority of Catholic Tradition)
So then, brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught by us, either by word of mouth or by letter.
Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is living in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us. NIV: “hold fast to the teachings”. KJV, NKJV & NAS: “traditions”.
“The apostles did not hand down everything in writing; many unwritten things were handed down as well, and both written and unwritten are worthy of belief. So let us also regard the tradition of the Church as worthy of belief.” ICSB, 1 Thess 2:15, citing St. John Chrysostom, Homilies on 2 Thessalonians 4.
7. James 5:14-16 (Sacraments of Anointing of the Sick & Reconciliation)
Is any among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick man, and the Lord will raise him up; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power in its effects. Protestant translations are the same.
“The invocation of the Lord’s name, which results in forgiveness (Jas 5:15), makes the anointing a truly sacred and sacramental action. Its institution goes back to Jesus and is hinted at in Mk 6:13.” ICSB, Jas 5:14.
“confess … to one another”: Must be interpreted in context with the immediately preceding verses. ICSB, Jas 5:16. It is the elders (i.e., priests) who hear the confession of the sick person.
Such confession is implicitly mandated by Jesus in John 20:23. Without a vocal confession, the priests are not able to know what sins to forgive.
8. John 20:21-23 (The Apostles’ Authority & Reconciliation)
Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you." And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained." How was Jesus sent by the Father? With authority. So how does Jesus send his Apostles? With authority.
The power to “forgive and retain” sins in the name of Jesus is elsewhere described as the authority to “bind and loose” (Mt 16:19, 18:18, CCC 553, 730).
10. 1 John 5:16-17 (“Mortal” versus “Venial” Sin)
If any one sees his brother committing what is not a mortal sin, he will ask, and God* will give him life for those whose sin is not mortal. There is sin which is mortal; I do not say that one is to pray for that. All wrongdoing is sin, but there is sin which is not mortal. “Mortal” versus “venial” sins. Refers to “spiritual” death rather than “physical” death.
Sinning unto death (mortal sin) means sinning so grievously that one forfeits the indwelling “life” of Christ. Sin that does not lead to “death” (venial sin) weakens one’s fellowship with God and requires cleansing and forgiveness but does not extinguish the divine life abiding within persons guilty of deadly sins. (ICSB, 1 John 5:16)
“Venial offenses can be forgiven by prayers of contrition and other means, but, ordinarily, mortal sins cannot be forgiven apart from the absolution and restorative grace of the Sacrament of Reconciliation (CCC 1854-64).” ICSB, Id.
11. 1 Corinthians 3:13-15 (Purgatory)
each man's work will become manifest; for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work which any man has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If any man's work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire. Purgatorial process of purification God performs on the soul after death.“Nothing unclean” can enter heaven (Revelation 21:27).
“Christ refers to the sinner for whom “there is no forgiveness, either in this world or the world to come” (Mt 12:32). This implies expiation can occur after death.” Keating, Catholicism and Fundamentalism, Purgatory, pg. 193, Ignatius Press 1998). “Paul tells us that at the day of judgment each man’s work will be tried. This trial happens after death. What happens if a man’s work fails the test? ‘He will be the loser; and yet he himself will be saved, though only as men are saved by passing through fire’ (1 Cor 3:15).” Keating, Id.
The works of this life are exposed to the fiery presence of God’s all-consuming love (Hebrews 12:29).
Praying for the dead: 2 Maccabees 12:46: “It is a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they might be loosed from their sins.” (“Prayers are not needed by those in heaven, and they cannot help those in hell.” Keating, Id.)
12. Luke 1:26-28, 41-43, 46-48 (The Ave Maria: Annunciation, Visitation & Magnificat)
In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, "Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you!"
And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and she exclaimed with a loud cry, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed; The Annunciation, the Visitation, and the Magnificat.
“full of grace”: “Indicates that God has already “graced” Mary previous to this point, making her a vessel who ‘has been’ and ‘is now’ filled with divine life. … God endowed Mary with an abundance of grace to prepare her for the vocation of divine motherhood and to make her a sterling example of Christian holiness (CCC 490-93, 722).” ICSB, Luke 1:28. “Let it be done to me according to your word.” Luke 1:38.
“The Mother of my Lord” The Mother of God: “Note that every occurrence of the word Lord in the immediate (1:45) and surrounding context refers to God (1:28, 32, 38, 46, 58, 68). “Mother of God”: Council of Ephesus (A.D. 431).
“When Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple whom he loved standing near, he said to his mother, ‘Woman, behold, your son!’ Then he said to the disciple, ‘Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.” John 19:26-27. “John is not just an individual disciple, he is portrayed by the evangelist as an icon of every disciple whom Jesus loves. In this sense, Mary is given to all beloved disciples of Christ, just as every disciple is given to the maternal care of Mary.” ICSB, John 19:26.
“…the rest of her offspring, on those who keep the commandments of God and bear testimony to Jesus.” Revelation 12:17. We Christians are the spiritual children of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
13. 1 Peter 3:21 & Titus 3:5 (Baptism)
Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a clear conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,
he saved us, not because of deeds done by us in righteousness, but in virtue of his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal in the Holy Spirit, Baptism brings us salvation.
14. Revelation 11:19; 12:1-6, 17 (Mary, Ark of New Covenant; Assumption & Heavenly Mother)
Then God's temple in heaven was opened, and the ark of his covenant was seen within his temple; and there were flashes of lightning, loud noises, peals of thunder, an earthquake, and heavy hail. And a great portent appeared in heaven, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars; she was with child and she cried out in her pangs of birth, in anguish for delivery. And another portent appeared in heaven; behold, a great red dragon, with seven heads and ten horns, and seven diadems upon his heads. His tail swept down a third of the stars of heaven, and cast them to the earth. And the dragon stood before the woman who was about to bear a child, that he might devour her child when she brought it forth; she brought forth a male child, one who is to rule all the nations with a rod of iron, but her child was caught up to God and to his throne, and the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by God, in which to be nourished for one thousand two hundred and sixty days.
Then the dragon was angry with the woman, and went off to make war on the rest of her offspring, on those who keep the commandments of God and bear testimony to Jesus. And he stood on the sand of the sea. John is given a glimpse of the Ark of the Covenant and what he is shown is shown the Blessed Virgin Mary in her full bodily form, consistent with the dogma of the bodily Assumption of Mary.
The “crown of twelve stars” – depictions of a “crowned” Mary in Catholic Churches. The Mystery of the “Coronation” of Mary as Queen of Heaven.
We, “who keep the commandments of God and bear testimony to Jesus”, are her children.
15. Revelation 8:3; (Heavenly saints’ intercessory prayers & incense at Mass)
And another angel came and stood at the altar with a golden censer; and he was given much incense to mingle with the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar before the throne; Heavenly saints are vested like priests according to Rev 15:6
“The company of all the saints probably includes those in heaven, such as the martyrs (6:9-11) and the multitudes (7:13-14) who praise God for his mercy and plead for the judgment of the wicked. The Communion of the Saints is the basis for intercession of the saints. Just as the faithful pray for one another on earth, so the faithful departed pray for us as they look down from heaven (CCC 954-56).” ICSB, Revelation 8:3.
16. 2 John 1:12 & 3 John 1:13 (Catholic oral Tradition)
Though I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink, but I hope to come to see you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.
I had much to write to you, but I would rather not write with pen and ink;
Bible alone? Jesus wrote nothing that we know of and the Apostles did much of their teaching through the spoken word. We have passed down oral Gospel through Tradition.
17. John 17:11, 1 Corinthians 1:10, Philippians 2:1-2 (Jesus’ Prayer & Paul’s Appeal for Unity)
And now I am no more in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to thee. Holy Father, keep them in thy name, which thou hast given me, that they may be one, even as we are one.
I appeal to you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree and that there be no dissensions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.
Complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Jesus prays for the UNITY that St. Paul echoes, that we be UNITED in the same mind, love and judgment.
This is the bread which comes down from heaven, that a man may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if any one eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread which I shall give for the life of the world is my flesh."
The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying, "How can this man give us his flesh to eat?"
So Jesus said to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, you have no life in you; he who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so he who eats me will live because of me. This is the bread which came down from heaven, not such as the fathers ate and died; he who eats this bread will live forever." This he said in the synagogue, as he taught at Caperna-um.
Many of his disciples, when they heard it, said, "This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?" But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples murmured at it, said to them, "Do you take offense at this? Then what if you were to see the Son of man ascending where he was before? It is the spirit that gives life, the flesh is of no avail; the words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. But there are some of you that do not believe." For Jesus knew from the first who those were that did not believe, and who it was that should betray him. And he said, "This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father."
After this many of his disciples drew back and no longer went about with him. Jesus said to the twelve, "Will you also go away?" Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life; and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God." FOUR TIMES Jesus says “eat my flesh and drink my blood.”
“…the flesh is of no avail…” Truth. The flesh alone is not sufficient for eternal life. It’s when the flesh is united with the “soul, spirit and divinity” of our Lord which makes the flesh life-giving.
When the disciples are leaving does Jesus say: “Wait wait, I’m just speaking metaphorically about the Faith you must have to follow me!!!” ? No. IF and WHEN Jesus sometimes spoke cryptically, through parables, etc., Jesus made sure his disciples understood what he meant so they could teach his Word: “[P]rivately to his own disciples he explained everything.” Mark 4:34. Jesus speaks very clearly here. “For my flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed.” John 6:55. If speaking only metaphorically, why doesn’t Jesus say “I’m not being literal.” Jesus would not leave such an important passage to conflicting interpretation.
2. 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 (The Eucharist)
The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread. “cup of blessing”: The traditional name for the “third” of four ritual cups of wine consumed at the Jewish Passover meal. ICSB, 1 Cor 10:16-17. It is this cup that Jesus blessed and consecrated at the Passover of the Last Supper and made the Eucharistic cup of the New Covenant. Id.
“participation”: Eucharistic Communion unites believers with Christ and with one another. Id. These two blessings are related inasmuch as the Sacrament of Christ’s Body and Blood is what continues to mold us into the ecclesial Body of Christ. Id.
3. 1 Corinthians 11:2, 20, 27-34 (Tradition & The Eucharist)
I commend you because you remember me in everything and maintain the traditions even as I have delivered them to you.
When you meet together, it is not the Lord's supper that you eat.
Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of profaning the body and blood of the Lord. Let a man examine himself, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For any one who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment upon himself. That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. But if we judged ourselves truly, we should not be judged. But when we are judged by the Lord, we are chastened so that we may not be condemned along with the world. So then, my brethren, when you come together to eat, wait for one another -- if any one is hungry, let him eat at home -- lest you come together to be condemned. About the other things I will give directions when I come. “unworthy”: Receiving Eucharistic Communion can be an act of sacrilege and self-condemnation if done in a state of serious (mortal) sin. St. Paul is clearly regarding the Eucharist as more than a mere “symbol.”
“examine himself”: Paul’s teaching implies a close connection between the Eucharist and Reconciliation (Jn 20:23).
4. Matthew 16:17-19 (Peter = Petros = Cephas = The Rock & The Keys to the Kingdom of Heaven)
And Jesus answered him, "Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jona! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the powers of death shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." “you are Peter [“Petros” – Greek; “Cephas” – Aramaic], and on this rock [“petra” – Greek; “cephas” – Aramaic] I will build my church”
“KEYS”: First century Christians knew Jesus was referring Isaiah 22:22. “the Keys of the Kingdom” refer to what the Prime Minister holds (1) UNDER the King, but (2) OVER the cabinet of royal ministers.
Catholic and Protestant scholars agree. “Keys” represented authority over the other cabinet members (other Apostles) and dynastic (Apostolic) succession.
Isaiah 22: Under King Hezekiah was the Prime Minister, Shebna. He became unworthy of his office. He was deposed and in his office he is replaced by Eliakim. Eliakim then becomes Prime Minister and Vizier in Hezekiah’s Kingdom, and Eliakim is given the keys to show that he has more authority than the other ministers.
Jesus raises up 12 ministers as royal officers. In Matthew 19:28 Jesus tells them they will “sit on twelve thrones.” They have royal power. But of the 12 there is only ONE that has “the Keys,” the PRIME minister, Peter, and the Keys of the Kingdom signify his PRIMACY.
Dynastic Succession. Hezekiah will be replaced by another king when he dies. So will the Prime Minister. The office of Prime Minister is vacant and must be filled = Apostolic Succession.
Acts 1:15-26: “His office let another take.” (RSV & NKJV). KJV: “his bishoprick let another take.” NIV: “place of leadership.” NLT: “someone else take his position.”
These verses explain the truth of Papal and Church infallibility. The Prime Minister and Vizier speaks for the King.
5. 1 Timothy 3:15 (The Church, the pillar and bulwark of the truth.)
if I am delayed, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and bulwark of the truth. There is only one Church that claims to be the pillar and foundation of Truth.
NAB, NIV & NLT: “This is the church of the living God, which is the pillar and foundation of the truth.” ; KJV “pillar and ground”. ESV: “pillar and buttress”. Message Bible: “bastion of truth”.
6. 2 Thessalonians 2:15 & 3:6 (Authority of Catholic Tradition)
So then, brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught by us, either by word of mouth or by letter.
Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is living in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us. NIV: “hold fast to the teachings”. KJV, NKJV & NAS: “traditions”.
“The apostles did not hand down everything in writing; many unwritten things were handed down as well, and both written and unwritten are worthy of belief. So let us also regard the tradition of the Church as worthy of belief.” ICSB, 1 Thess 2:15, citing St. John Chrysostom, Homilies on 2 Thessalonians 4.
7. James 5:14-16 (Sacraments of Anointing of the Sick & Reconciliation)
Is any among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick man, and the Lord will raise him up; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power in its effects. Protestant translations are the same.
“The invocation of the Lord’s name, which results in forgiveness (Jas 5:15), makes the anointing a truly sacred and sacramental action. Its institution goes back to Jesus and is hinted at in Mk 6:13.” ICSB, Jas 5:14.
“confess … to one another”: Must be interpreted in context with the immediately preceding verses. ICSB, Jas 5:16. It is the elders (i.e., priests) who hear the confession of the sick person.
Such confession is implicitly mandated by Jesus in John 20:23. Without a vocal confession, the priests are not able to know what sins to forgive.
8. John 20:21-23 (The Apostles’ Authority & Reconciliation)
Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you." And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained." How was Jesus sent by the Father? With authority. So how does Jesus send his Apostles? With authority.
The power to “forgive and retain” sins in the name of Jesus is elsewhere described as the authority to “bind and loose” (Mt 16:19, 18:18, CCC 553, 730).
10. 1 John 5:16-17 (“Mortal” versus “Venial” Sin)
If any one sees his brother committing what is not a mortal sin, he will ask, and God* will give him life for those whose sin is not mortal. There is sin which is mortal; I do not say that one is to pray for that. All wrongdoing is sin, but there is sin which is not mortal. “Mortal” versus “venial” sins. Refers to “spiritual” death rather than “physical” death.
Sinning unto death (mortal sin) means sinning so grievously that one forfeits the indwelling “life” of Christ. Sin that does not lead to “death” (venial sin) weakens one’s fellowship with God and requires cleansing and forgiveness but does not extinguish the divine life abiding within persons guilty of deadly sins. (ICSB, 1 John 5:16)
“Venial offenses can be forgiven by prayers of contrition and other means, but, ordinarily, mortal sins cannot be forgiven apart from the absolution and restorative grace of the Sacrament of Reconciliation (CCC 1854-64).” ICSB, Id.
11. 1 Corinthians 3:13-15 (Purgatory)
each man's work will become manifest; for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work which any man has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If any man's work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire. Purgatorial process of purification God performs on the soul after death.“Nothing unclean” can enter heaven (Revelation 21:27).
“Christ refers to the sinner for whom “there is no forgiveness, either in this world or the world to come” (Mt 12:32). This implies expiation can occur after death.” Keating, Catholicism and Fundamentalism, Purgatory, pg. 193, Ignatius Press 1998). “Paul tells us that at the day of judgment each man’s work will be tried. This trial happens after death. What happens if a man’s work fails the test? ‘He will be the loser; and yet he himself will be saved, though only as men are saved by passing through fire’ (1 Cor 3:15).” Keating, Id.
The works of this life are exposed to the fiery presence of God’s all-consuming love (Hebrews 12:29).
Praying for the dead: 2 Maccabees 12:46: “It is a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they might be loosed from their sins.” (“Prayers are not needed by those in heaven, and they cannot help those in hell.” Keating, Id.)
12. Luke 1:26-28, 41-43, 46-48 (The Ave Maria: Annunciation, Visitation & Magnificat)
In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, "Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you!"
And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and she exclaimed with a loud cry, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed; The Annunciation, the Visitation, and the Magnificat.
“full of grace”: “Indicates that God has already “graced” Mary previous to this point, making her a vessel who ‘has been’ and ‘is now’ filled with divine life. … God endowed Mary with an abundance of grace to prepare her for the vocation of divine motherhood and to make her a sterling example of Christian holiness (CCC 490-93, 722).” ICSB, Luke 1:28. “Let it be done to me according to your word.” Luke 1:38.
“The Mother of my Lord” The Mother of God: “Note that every occurrence of the word Lord in the immediate (1:45) and surrounding context refers to God (1:28, 32, 38, 46, 58, 68). “Mother of God”: Council of Ephesus (A.D. 431).
“When Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple whom he loved standing near, he said to his mother, ‘Woman, behold, your son!’ Then he said to the disciple, ‘Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.” John 19:26-27. “John is not just an individual disciple, he is portrayed by the evangelist as an icon of every disciple whom Jesus loves. In this sense, Mary is given to all beloved disciples of Christ, just as every disciple is given to the maternal care of Mary.” ICSB, John 19:26.
“…the rest of her offspring, on those who keep the commandments of God and bear testimony to Jesus.” Revelation 12:17. We Christians are the spiritual children of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
13. 1 Peter 3:21 & Titus 3:5 (Baptism)
Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a clear conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,
he saved us, not because of deeds done by us in righteousness, but in virtue of his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal in the Holy Spirit, Baptism brings us salvation.
14. Revelation 11:19; 12:1-6, 17 (Mary, Ark of New Covenant; Assumption & Heavenly Mother)
Then God's temple in heaven was opened, and the ark of his covenant was seen within his temple; and there were flashes of lightning, loud noises, peals of thunder, an earthquake, and heavy hail. And a great portent appeared in heaven, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars; she was with child and she cried out in her pangs of birth, in anguish for delivery. And another portent appeared in heaven; behold, a great red dragon, with seven heads and ten horns, and seven diadems upon his heads. His tail swept down a third of the stars of heaven, and cast them to the earth. And the dragon stood before the woman who was about to bear a child, that he might devour her child when she brought it forth; she brought forth a male child, one who is to rule all the nations with a rod of iron, but her child was caught up to God and to his throne, and the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by God, in which to be nourished for one thousand two hundred and sixty days.
Then the dragon was angry with the woman, and went off to make war on the rest of her offspring, on those who keep the commandments of God and bear testimony to Jesus. And he stood on the sand of the sea. John is given a glimpse of the Ark of the Covenant and what he is shown is shown the Blessed Virgin Mary in her full bodily form, consistent with the dogma of the bodily Assumption of Mary.
The “crown of twelve stars” – depictions of a “crowned” Mary in Catholic Churches. The Mystery of the “Coronation” of Mary as Queen of Heaven.
We, “who keep the commandments of God and bear testimony to Jesus”, are her children.
15. Revelation 8:3; (Heavenly saints’ intercessory prayers & incense at Mass)
And another angel came and stood at the altar with a golden censer; and he was given much incense to mingle with the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar before the throne; Heavenly saints are vested like priests according to Rev 15:6
“The company of all the saints probably includes those in heaven, such as the martyrs (6:9-11) and the multitudes (7:13-14) who praise God for his mercy and plead for the judgment of the wicked. The Communion of the Saints is the basis for intercession of the saints. Just as the faithful pray for one another on earth, so the faithful departed pray for us as they look down from heaven (CCC 954-56).” ICSB, Revelation 8:3.
16. 2 John 1:12 & 3 John 1:13 (Catholic oral Tradition)
Though I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink, but I hope to come to see you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.
I had much to write to you, but I would rather not write with pen and ink;
Bible alone? Jesus wrote nothing that we know of and the Apostles did much of their teaching through the spoken word. We have passed down oral Gospel through Tradition.
17. John 17:11, 1 Corinthians 1:10, Philippians 2:1-2 (Jesus’ Prayer & Paul’s Appeal for Unity)
And now I am no more in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to thee. Holy Father, keep them in thy name, which thou hast given me, that they may be one, even as we are one.
I appeal to you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree and that there be no dissensions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.
Complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Jesus prays for the UNITY that St. Paul echoes, that we be UNITED in the same mind, love and judgment.
EXAMPLES OF BIBLE VERSES USED TO CHALLENGE CATHOLICS
1. 1 Timothy 2:5 (Asking for Mary’s intercession)
For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. 1 Cor 3:9: “For we are God’s fellow workers ... .” NAB: “co-workers” NIV: “co-workers in God’s service” KJV: “labourers together with God.” “Co-“ here means “with.”
1 Tim 2:1-3: “intercessions be made for all men”. Our Blessed Mother intercedes for us, mediates “with,” but is in no way “equal to”, Christ. Mary can be a “co”-mediator just like we can be God’s “co”-workers.
“The saints in heaven mediate the praises and petitions of the saints on earth (Rev 8:3). The rising smoke of incense is a visible sign of prayers ascending to God (Ps 141:2).” ICSB, Revelation 5:8. See also ICSB, Revelation 8:3.
2. Matthew 23:9 (Referring to Priests as “Father”)
And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. 1 Cor 4:15: “For I [Paul] became your father in Christ Jesus through the Gospel” (same with NIV, The Message Bible, KJV: “ I have begotten you through the gospel”; see also Philemon 10
Mt 23:9 is a warning against seeking honorific titles
3. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (The Bible Alone)
All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. St. Paul makes the authority of sacred “tradition” very clear: See 1 Cor 11:2 (“Maintain the traditions even as I have delivered them to you.”); 2 Thess 2:15 (“stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught by us, either by word of mouth or by letter.”; 2 Thess 3:6 (“… not in accord with the tradition that you received from us.”).
While the Bible may arguably be sufficient, that does not mean nothing more has been GIVEN!
4. Matthew 15:3, 6 (Authority of Tradition)
He answered them, "And why do you transgress the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition? So, for the sake of your tradition, you have made void the word of God. Only tradition from Christ and Apostles has DIVINE authority. See 1 Cor 11:2; 2 Thess 2:15 & 2 Thess 3:6, above, regarding authority of “tradition” in the Letters of St. Paul. Same with NIV, The Message Bible, & NKJV. NLT: uses “teachings” (distinction without a difference?). KJV: “ordinances”? laws?
The Church also rejects “human” traditions which negate the Word of God.
5. Romans 3:28 (Justification)
For we hold that a man is justified by faith apart from works of law. “works of the law” is used eight (8) times in the NT by St. Paul , especially Romans & Galatians. Not referring to the 10 commandments and the sacraments and commandments of Jesus.
The phrase can also be translated “works of the Torah” and this is confirmed by the writings of the 1st Century Qumran Community discussed in the Dead Sea Scrolls. Refers to the Temple ceremonies and rituals as distinct from the 10 commandments and the moral law.
This does not mean “good works” which are required in the Letter of St. James:
o “What does it profit, my brethren, if a man says he has faith but has not works? … So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead. … You see that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone. … For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so faith apart from works is dead.” James 2:14, 17, 24, & 26.
o NIV: replaces “works” with “deeds.” NLT: mostly uses “good deeds”. KJV & NKJV: “works”
Paul in Romans 3:28 is addressing issues related to “conversion”; our initial “justification” in Christ, through “faith.” “James is not contradicting this teaching. James is discussing the ongoing justification of believers who put their faith into action and strive to live the gospel in practical and charitable ways.” ICSB, Essay: “Faith and Works,” p. 443. “James is correcting those who took Paul out of context and minimized the importance of works as a proper and necessary expression of faith in the Christian life.” Id.
We know that Paul was not rejecting but endorsing the rituals of the New Covenant as in Romans he then goes on to discuss Baptism.
6. John 3:3 (Have you been “born again?” Have you “accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior?”)
Jesus answered him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God." This translation “born again” is derived from the Greek term “anothen” (ah-no-then), which can also be translated “born from above”, which is the NAB translation.
What is being talked about is “baptism.” The discussion is sandwiched by talks about baptism. John 3 is talking about Baptism, not “choosing Jesus as personal Savior and Lord”, which is a phrase not found anywhere. Look at John 3:22. After the discussion with Nicodemus, Jesus and the Disciples went into Judea “and baptized.” John 4:1, more baptizing.
7. Hebrews 7:27 (Christ’s “once and for all” sacrifice)
He has no need, like those high priests, to offer sacrifices daily, first for his own sins and then for those of the people; he did this once for all when he offered up himself. See also Heb 9:12: “… he entered once for all into the Holy Place …”; 9:25: Jesus did not die for us to “… suffer repeatedly …”.
The Catholic Church holds that Jesus’ sacrifice is “re-presented” at every Mass. He is not “re-sacrificed.”
8. Matthew 18:15-20 (Jesus is where two or more gather in His name)If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them. “tell it to the church”? What church? “THE” church.
Does not undermine the Church, it presupposes that there is a visible Church for us to refer the dissenter.
9. Matthew 12:48-49 (Jesus’ “brethren”)But he replied to the man who told him, "Who is my mother, and who are my brethren?" And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, "Here are my mother and my brethren! The NT often mentions Jesus’ “brethren” (Mt 13:55; Mk 3:31, 6:3; Lk 8:19; Jn 2:12, 7:3; Acts 1:14; Gal 1:19). The Church maintains, however, that Jesus’ Mother, Mary remained a virgin throughout her life. These so-called brethren of Jesus are thus his relatives but not children of Mary. Four observations support the Church’s tradition:
o The brethren are never called the children of Mary, although Jesus himself is (Jn 2:1, 19:15; Acts 1:14).
o Two names mentioned, James and Joseph, are sons of a different “Mary” in Mt 27:56 (Mk 15:40).
o It is unlikely that Jesus would entrust his Mother to the Apostle John at the Crucifixion if she had other natural sons to care for her (Jn 19:26-27).
o The word “brethren” (Gk. adelphoi) has a broader meaning than blood brothers. Since ancient Hebrew had no word for “cousin”, it was customary to use “brethren” in the Bible for relationships other than blood brothers. This usage is found throughout the Greek OT as well (1 Chron 23:21-22; Deut 23:7; 2 Kings 10:13-14; Gen 13:8; 2 Sam 1:26; cf. 1 Sam 18:3).
10. Exodus 20:4 (Catholic “graven images”)
You shall not make for yourself a graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Until Jesus came, we didn’t know what God looks like. Now we do. The same with the Mother of God.
In the Old Covenant Saints were not glorified. In the New Covenant they are.
What about pictures of Jesus in Sunday School classes and in all picture Bibles?
For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. 1 Cor 3:9: “For we are God’s fellow workers ... .” NAB: “co-workers” NIV: “co-workers in God’s service” KJV: “labourers together with God.” “Co-“ here means “with.”
1 Tim 2:1-3: “intercessions be made for all men”. Our Blessed Mother intercedes for us, mediates “with,” but is in no way “equal to”, Christ. Mary can be a “co”-mediator just like we can be God’s “co”-workers.
“The saints in heaven mediate the praises and petitions of the saints on earth (Rev 8:3). The rising smoke of incense is a visible sign of prayers ascending to God (Ps 141:2).” ICSB, Revelation 5:8. See also ICSB, Revelation 8:3.
2. Matthew 23:9 (Referring to Priests as “Father”)
And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. 1 Cor 4:15: “For I [Paul] became your father in Christ Jesus through the Gospel” (same with NIV, The Message Bible, KJV: “ I have begotten you through the gospel”; see also Philemon 10
Mt 23:9 is a warning against seeking honorific titles
3. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (The Bible Alone)
All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. St. Paul makes the authority of sacred “tradition” very clear: See 1 Cor 11:2 (“Maintain the traditions even as I have delivered them to you.”); 2 Thess 2:15 (“stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught by us, either by word of mouth or by letter.”; 2 Thess 3:6 (“… not in accord with the tradition that you received from us.”).
While the Bible may arguably be sufficient, that does not mean nothing more has been GIVEN!
4. Matthew 15:3, 6 (Authority of Tradition)
He answered them, "And why do you transgress the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition? So, for the sake of your tradition, you have made void the word of God. Only tradition from Christ and Apostles has DIVINE authority. See 1 Cor 11:2; 2 Thess 2:15 & 2 Thess 3:6, above, regarding authority of “tradition” in the Letters of St. Paul. Same with NIV, The Message Bible, & NKJV. NLT: uses “teachings” (distinction without a difference?). KJV: “ordinances”? laws?
The Church also rejects “human” traditions which negate the Word of God.
5. Romans 3:28 (Justification)
For we hold that a man is justified by faith apart from works of law. “works of the law” is used eight (8) times in the NT by St. Paul , especially Romans & Galatians. Not referring to the 10 commandments and the sacraments and commandments of Jesus.
The phrase can also be translated “works of the Torah” and this is confirmed by the writings of the 1st Century Qumran Community discussed in the Dead Sea Scrolls. Refers to the Temple ceremonies and rituals as distinct from the 10 commandments and the moral law.
This does not mean “good works” which are required in the Letter of St. James:
o “What does it profit, my brethren, if a man says he has faith but has not works? … So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead. … You see that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone. … For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so faith apart from works is dead.” James 2:14, 17, 24, & 26.
o NIV: replaces “works” with “deeds.” NLT: mostly uses “good deeds”. KJV & NKJV: “works”
Paul in Romans 3:28 is addressing issues related to “conversion”; our initial “justification” in Christ, through “faith.” “James is not contradicting this teaching. James is discussing the ongoing justification of believers who put their faith into action and strive to live the gospel in practical and charitable ways.” ICSB, Essay: “Faith and Works,” p. 443. “James is correcting those who took Paul out of context and minimized the importance of works as a proper and necessary expression of faith in the Christian life.” Id.
We know that Paul was not rejecting but endorsing the rituals of the New Covenant as in Romans he then goes on to discuss Baptism.
6. John 3:3 (Have you been “born again?” Have you “accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior?”)
Jesus answered him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God." This translation “born again” is derived from the Greek term “anothen” (ah-no-then), which can also be translated “born from above”, which is the NAB translation.
What is being talked about is “baptism.” The discussion is sandwiched by talks about baptism. John 3 is talking about Baptism, not “choosing Jesus as personal Savior and Lord”, which is a phrase not found anywhere. Look at John 3:22. After the discussion with Nicodemus, Jesus and the Disciples went into Judea “and baptized.” John 4:1, more baptizing.
7. Hebrews 7:27 (Christ’s “once and for all” sacrifice)
He has no need, like those high priests, to offer sacrifices daily, first for his own sins and then for those of the people; he did this once for all when he offered up himself. See also Heb 9:12: “… he entered once for all into the Holy Place …”; 9:25: Jesus did not die for us to “… suffer repeatedly …”.
The Catholic Church holds that Jesus’ sacrifice is “re-presented” at every Mass. He is not “re-sacrificed.”
8. Matthew 18:15-20 (Jesus is where two or more gather in His name)If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them. “tell it to the church”? What church? “THE” church.
Does not undermine the Church, it presupposes that there is a visible Church for us to refer the dissenter.
9. Matthew 12:48-49 (Jesus’ “brethren”)But he replied to the man who told him, "Who is my mother, and who are my brethren?" And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, "Here are my mother and my brethren! The NT often mentions Jesus’ “brethren” (Mt 13:55; Mk 3:31, 6:3; Lk 8:19; Jn 2:12, 7:3; Acts 1:14; Gal 1:19). The Church maintains, however, that Jesus’ Mother, Mary remained a virgin throughout her life. These so-called brethren of Jesus are thus his relatives but not children of Mary. Four observations support the Church’s tradition:
o The brethren are never called the children of Mary, although Jesus himself is (Jn 2:1, 19:15; Acts 1:14).
o Two names mentioned, James and Joseph, are sons of a different “Mary” in Mt 27:56 (Mk 15:40).
o It is unlikely that Jesus would entrust his Mother to the Apostle John at the Crucifixion if she had other natural sons to care for her (Jn 19:26-27).
o The word “brethren” (Gk. adelphoi) has a broader meaning than blood brothers. Since ancient Hebrew had no word for “cousin”, it was customary to use “brethren” in the Bible for relationships other than blood brothers. This usage is found throughout the Greek OT as well (1 Chron 23:21-22; Deut 23:7; 2 Kings 10:13-14; Gen 13:8; 2 Sam 1:26; cf. 1 Sam 18:3).
10. Exodus 20:4 (Catholic “graven images”)
You shall not make for yourself a graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Until Jesus came, we didn’t know what God looks like. Now we do. The same with the Mother of God.
In the Old Covenant Saints were not glorified. In the New Covenant they are.
What about pictures of Jesus in Sunday School classes and in all picture Bibles?
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