1. CALLING PRIEST FATHER- 

Question?  Is it OK to call a priest FATHER?

 

In Matthew 23 Jesus is addressing the religious leaders.  Look closely at what he says. ...

 

"Then Jesus spoke to the multitudes and to His disciples, 2 saying: “The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. 3 Therefore whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do. 4 For they bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers. 5 But all their works they do to be seen by men. They make their phylacteries broad and enlarge the borders of their garments. 6 They love the [best places at feasts, the best seats in the synagogues, 7 greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called by men, ‘Rabbi, Rabbi.’ 8 But you, do not be called ‘Rabbi’; for One is your Teacher, the Christ, and you are all brethren. 9 Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. 10 And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ. 11 But he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. 12 And whoever exalts himself will be [humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."    Matthew 23:1-12

 

 

2.  CELIBACY OF PRIESTHOOD

QUESTION?  What does the Bible say about Celibacy of the Priesthood?

 

Catholic church teaches that priest are to be celibate.

References

1. CCC 1579, "All the ordained ministers of the Latin Church, with the exception of permanent deacons, are normally chosen from among men of faith who live a celibate life and who intend to remain celibate "for the sake of the kingdom of heaven." Called to consecrate themselves with undivided heart to the Lord and to "the affairs of the Lord," they give themselves entirely to God and to men. Celibacy is a sign of this new life to the service of which the Church's minister is consecrated; accepted with a joyous heart celibacy radiantly proclaims the Reign of God."

2. CCC 1599, "In the Latin Church the sacrament of Holy Orders for the presbyterate is normally conferred only on candidates who are ready to embrace celibacy freely and who publicly manifest their intention of staying celibate for the love of God's kingdom and the service of men."

 

What does the Bible say?

 

"4 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; 2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; 3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. 4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: 5 For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.  1 Tim 4:1-5

 

Notice what he says here.  He calls these things, "DOCTRINES OF DEMONS".

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Listen to what scripture says about Bishops being married. 

"A bishop, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money. He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?" 1 Timothy 3:2-5

 

 

3. SALVATION

QUESTION?  Is salvation by works or by faith?

 

The Roman Catholic Church teaches that salvation is by baptismal regeneration and is maintained through the Catholic sacraments unless a willful act of sin is committed that breaks the state of sanctifying grace.  The Roman Catholic Church states that Christians are saved by meritorious works (beginning with baptism) and that salvation is maintained by good works (receiving the sacraments, confession of sin to a priest, etc.)  RCC preaches a different gospel by demanding additional requirements for salvation including:  the sacraments (1129),  meritorious masses (1405), church membership (846), purgatory (1030), indulgences *(1498), and baptism (1256).

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Other references

1. CCC 2036, "The specific precepts of the natural law, because their observance, demanded by the creator, is necessary for salvation."

2. CCC 2080, "The Decalogue contains a privileged expression of the natural law. It is made known to us by divine revelation and by human reason."

3. CCC 2068, "so that all men may attain salvation through faith, Baptism and the observance of the Commandments,"

 

What does the Bible say?

SCRIPTURE TEACHES... That Christians are saved by grace through faith, totally apart from works, sacraments, membership, etc..

 

"10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them.” 11 But that no one is justified by the law in the sight of God is evident, for “the just shall live by faith.”  Galatians 3:10-11

 

PLEASE NOTE:  Notice how scripture says that if you are under works of the law that you are under a curse.

 

"8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast."  Ephesians 2:8-9

 

"4 But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, 5 not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior,"   Titus 3:4-6

 

"19 Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. 20 Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin. 21 But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, 22 even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference; 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,"  Romans 3:19-24

 

Remember Jesus conversation with the guy on the cross next to him.  This man was a hardened criminal.  He couldn't participate in church membership, he couldn't participate in sacraments, he couldn't take communion, etc. etc.  His "good works" were quite literally strapped to the cross.  

 

"9 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.”

40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” 43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”  Luke 23:39-43

 

This man had no ability to get baptized, speak in tongues, take communion, join a church etc.  Jesus told him "Today you will be with me in paradise" because of the condition of his heart.

 

Then what about the scripture that says "But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?"   

Does that mean works are necessary.  NO... Works are evidence of our faith.   

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4. ASSURANCE OF SALVATION

QUESTION? Can we be assured of salvation?

 

CATHOLICS- Catholics are taught no one can be assured of salvation.  

 

What does the Bible say?

"3 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God."  1 John 5:13

 

5. BAPTISM

QUESTION:  When is a person supposed to get baptized?

 

The Roman Catholic Church teaches baptismal regeneration of infants.   According to the Catholic Catechism, infant baptism is a gift from God that does not require any human merit. The Catechism states that parents who do not baptize their children shortly after birth are denying them the opportunity to become children of God

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What does the Bible say?  

In the New Testament baptism is ALWAYS practiced AFTER saving faith in Christ.  The only time we see baptisms in scripture is when someone comes to a saving faith and makes a personal decision to follow Christ.   Pay close attention to this scripture.  You will notice belief and repentance always precedes baptism.

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Question 1: Can babies be baptized since they do not first believe?

Answer: Mark 16:16; Acts 8:36-37 

"He who has believed and has been baptized shall be saved; but he who has disbelieved shall be condemned. Mark 16:16

"As they went along the road they came to some water; and the eunuch said, "Look! Water! What prevents me from being baptized?"

And Philip said, "If you believe with all your heart, you may." Acts 8:36-37

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Can an infant or even a very young child BELIEVE in this manner?

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Question #2: Can babies be baptized since they do not first repent?

Answer: Acts 2:38 

"Brethren, what must we do?" Peter said to them, "Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:37-38

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"Brethren, what must we do?" Peter said to them, "Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:37-38

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Can a baby REPENT?  No.   

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​Baptism is full immersion in water, not sprinkling.

FACT: The Catholic church baptizes babies by sprinkling a little water on them.

Historical note: Greek work for baptism literally means immersion. There are separate words in Greek for sprinkling, pouring and immersion. Only the Greek word for immersion is ever used for Baptism in the Bible. The first recorded case of sprinkling was in 257 AD to someone on a sick-bed. It was then an exception to the rule and brought about fierce opposition from the whole church. Not until 757 AD did the church accept sprinkling in such sick-bed cases of necessity. It wasn't until 1311 AD, when the Catholic council of Ravenna, declared that sprinkling was and acceptable substitute for immersion and from that time forward sprinkling replaced immersion in the Roman Catholic church. The Orthodox church refused sprinkling and still immerses to this day.

 

Question #1: Was Jesus baptized by full immersion in the Jordan River?

Answer: 

"After being baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and lighting on Him" Matthew 3:16

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Question #2: When Philip baptized the Eunuch, did both of them go into the water?

Answer: Acts 8:38-39 

"And he ordered the chariot to stop; and they both went down into the water, Philip as well as the eunuch, and he baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away." Acts 8:38-39​

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6. PRAYERS TO ANYONE BUT JESUS

QUESTION? Are we supposed to pray to anyone but Jesus?

 

The Roman Catholic Church teaches Catholics to not only pray to God, but also to petition Mary and the saints for their prayers.

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One of many referenes....

CCC 969, "This motherhood of Mary in the order of grace continues uninterruptedly from the consent which she loyally gave at the Annunciation and which she sustained without wavering beneath the cross, until the eternal fulfillment of all the elect. Taken up to heaven she did not lay aside this saving office but by her manifold intercession continues to bring us the gifts of eternal salvation. . . . Therefore the Blessed Virgin is invoked in the Church under the titles of Advocate, Helper, Benefactress, and Mediatrix."

 

What does the Bible say? 

"5 For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus,"  1 Tim 2:5-6

 

7. THE PRIESTHOOD 

QUESTION:  Who get's the title of priest based on scripture?

 

The Roman Catholic Church teaches that there is a distinction between the clergy and the “lay people,” 

CCC 1673, "When the Church asks publicly and authoritatively in the name of Jesus Christ that a person or object be protected against the power of the Evil One and withdrawn from his dominion, it is called exorcism. Jesus performed exorcisms and from him the Church has received the power and office of exorcizing. In a simple form, exorcism is performed at the celebration of Baptism. The solemn exorcism, called "a major exorcism," can be performed only by a priest and with the permission of the bishop. The priest must proceed with prudence, strictly observing the rules established by the Church. Exorcism is directed at the expulsion of demons or to the liberation from demonic possession through the spiritual authority which Jesus entrusted to his Church."

 

 The New Testament teaches the priesthood of all believers.

 

"9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;" 1 Peter 2:9

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"you (all Christians) also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. " 1 Peter 2:5

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"But you (all Christians) are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; " 1 Peter 2:9

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"Jesus has made us (all Christians) to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father—to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen." Revelation 1:6

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"You have made them (all Christians) to be a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth." Revelation 5:10

 

8. CONFESSION TO A PRIEST

QUESTION?  Do we need to go to a priest to get absolution of our sins?

 

The Roman Catholic Church teaches that unless a believer is hindered, the only way to receive the forgiveness of sins is by confessing them to a priest.  They teach... (Confession is) the clear avowal of all sins committed after Baptism, made to a priest who has the power to absolve (those sins). The priest imposes upon the penitent sinner acts of penance to make reparation for his sins.  These acts of penance may include saying specified amounts of “Hail Marys” and “Our Fathers”,  self-denial, or performing good works. The priest’s role in this sacrament is as representative of Christ.

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References

1. CCC 1424, "It is called the sacrament of confession, since the disclosure or confession of sins to a priest is an essential element of this sacrament. In a profound sense it is also a "confession" - acknowledgment and praise - of the holiness of God and of his mercy toward sinful man.

2. CCC 1456, "Confession to a priest is an essential part of the sacrament of Penance: "All mortal sins of which penitents after a diligent self-examination are conscious must be recounted by them in confession, even if they are most secret and have been committed against the last two precepts of the Decalogue; for these sins sometimes wound the soul more grievously and are more dangerous than those which are committed openly."

 

What does the BIBLE teach?

In the Old Testament, the High priest was responsible for entering in to the Most Holy of Holies once a year on the day of atonement to make atonement for the sins of the people.  There was a huge curtain between the Holy of Holy of Holies and the Most Holy of Holy of Holies.  The Most Holy of Holies was where the ark of the covenant was located.  The High Priest was only allowed to enter into the Most Holy of Holies once a year on the day of atonement to make atonement for the sins of the people.  When Jesus died on the cross, the 60 foot tall, 30 foot wide, and 3 inch thick curtain that separated the Most Holy of Holies from the Holy of Holies was torn in two from top to bottom giving us free access to God through Jesus Christ.    After this, there was no more need for a mediator.  That's why scripture says.

 

"5 For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus,"  1 Tim 2:5-6

 

Jesus is our ultimate High Priest.  

 

The Bible also says...

"9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 Peter 2:9

 

Please read ALL of the following passages in Hebrews 4 vs 14 through Hebrews 10 vs 18.  This passage is about Jesus being our High Priest and there being no need for another priest to stand before us making sacrifices and offerings.  Jesus did this once and for all for the sins of man.  Click link below to learn more.

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+4%3A14-10%3A18&version=NKJV

 

9.  IS MARY OUR CO-REDEMPTRESS? 

QUESTION?  Does Mary (Jesus mother) play a part in our salvation?  

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The Catholic church teaches (1) Mary participates in redemption with Jesus Christ, (2) grace is granted by Jesus only through the intercession of Mary, and (3) all prayers from the faithful must flow through Mary, who brings them to the attention of her Son.  The Vatican II Council and the New Catholic Catechism reaffirmed that Mary is the sinless Mother of God, that she ascended bodily to Glory (i.e., the Assumption of Mary) and was crowned as the Queen of Heaven, that she can hear and answer prayer.  The Roman Catholic Church teaches that Mary "did not lay aside her saving office but by her manifold intercession continues to bring us the gifts of eternal salvation.  She is Advocate…and Mediatrix” (969)

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One of numerous references. 

CCC 969, "This motherhood of Mary in the order of grace continues uninterruptedly from the consent which she loyally gave at the Annunciation and which she sustained without wavering beneath the cross, until the eternal fulfillment of all the elect. Taken up to heaven she did not lay aside this saving office but by her manifold intercession continues to bring us the gifts of eternal salvation. . . . Therefore the Blessed Virgin is invoked in the Church under the titles of Advocate, Helper, Benefactress, and Mediatrix."

 

What does scripture say?

 

"12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12

 

Please note:  Remember the wedding celebration.  Mary had to go to Jesus for him to get more wine.  Mary has no ability to perform miracles.  

 

10.  PERPETUAL VIRGINITY OF MARY

QUESTION- Is Mary a perpetual virgin?

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FACT: Roman Catholics are taught the virgin Mary never had sex after Jesus was born and that Jesus had no brothers and sisters.

 

What does the Bible say?

• Matthew 13:55-56 "Is not this the carpenter's son? Is not His mother called Mary, and His brothers, James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? 56 "And His sisters, are they not all with us? Where then did this man get all these things?" 

• Mark 6:3 "Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, and brother of James, and Joses, and Judas, and Simon? Are not His sisters here with us?" And they took offense at Him. 4 And Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor except in his home town and among his own relatives and in his own household."

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Also, Mary was not SINLESS.  The Bible says.

"For all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory"  Romans 3:23

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Mary declared her need for a savior in Luke 1:46-47

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"46 And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord,  47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior." Luke 1:46-47

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11.  HONORING OF MARY?

QUESTION?  Should we give Mary special adoration?

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The Catholic Church teaches that she was crowned as QUEEN OF HEAVEN and that we should call her "HOLY QUEEN" it also says that she is a Mediatrix and that she continues to bring us the gifts of eternal salvation.

References

1. CCC 969, "Therefore the Blessed Virgin is invoked in the Church under the titles of Advocate, Helper, Benefactress, and Mediatrix.'"

2. CCC 969, "Taken up to heaven she did not lay aside this saving office but by her manifold intercession continues to bring us the gifts of eternal salvation . . . "

3. CCC 966, " . . . You [Mary] conceived the living God and, by your prayers, will deliver our souls from death."

 

What does the Bible say?

"For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus"  1 Timothy 2:5

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"Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."  Acts 4:12

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The only time "HOLY QUEEN" is mentioned in the Bible it's negative.  See Jeremiah 7:17–19; 44:16–27

 

What else does scripture say.  

 

"I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images." -Isaiah 42:8

 

How does Jesus acknowledge reverence to his mother...

"46 While He was still talking to the multitudes, behold, His mother and brothers stood outside, seeking to speak with Him. 47 Then one said to Him, “Look, Your mother and Your brothers are standing outside, seeking to speak with You.” 48 But He answered and said to the one who told Him, “Who is My mother and who are My brothers?” 49 And He stretched out His hand toward His disciples and said, “Here are My mother and My brothers! 50 For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother.”  Matthew 12:46-50

 

The only high reference Jesus gives to someone is John the Baptist.   Jesus called John The Baptist the greatest born among women.

 

“Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he."  Matthew 11:11

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12.  THE ROSARY

QUESTION?  Should we pray the rosary?

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The Catholic Church teach the necessity of praying the rosary and in some doctrines teach 15 promises of praying the rosary.

FACT: Catholics pray repetitive words with Rosary Beads that were first invented in 1090 AD, by "Peter the Hermit" and made popular by St. Dominic in 1208 AD. Catholics believe that Mary appeared to St. Dominic in 1208 AD, at the church of Prouille and revealed the Rosary Beads to him. From this time, Catholics prayed 15 sets of 10 consecutive "hail Marys" in a row (150 times), in the Rosary. However, in 2003 AD, Pope John Paul added a new set of Mysteries, so now it is 20 sets of 10 "Hail Marys", (200 times in the Rosary, in total.) Catholics will vainly appeal to Psalm 136 that alternates the same phrase 26 times with 26 different blessings God gives us. It is not 26 in a row as with the rosary! This is also a song, not a prayer. Revelation 4:8 has "angels singing" not "men praying".

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Historical note: Roman Catholics borrowed the idea of praying with beads from the pagan religions who were already using them hundreds of years before: In 456 AD, Hindus are thought to have introduced the concept of praying with beads to the world. The earliest reference to a rosary (boberkhas) is in their "Jain Canon" (456 AD) These boberkhas had various numbers of beads 6,9,12,18,36 (any sub-multiple of 108) Islam (610 AD) uses a rosary of 99 beads, one for each of the names of God. Buddhists have 108 prayer beads on the string. The Rosary is of pagan origin and no Christian prior to 1000 AD used beads to pray.

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What does bible say?

"When ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking” Matthew 6:7

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Catholics will often quote this scripture. "While Jesus was saying these things, one of the women in the crowd raised her voice and said to Him, "Blessed is the womb that bore You and the breasts at which You nursed."  But they fail to read the next line.  "But He said, "On the contrary, blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it."" Luke 11:27-28

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It's also important to note that we DO NOT under any circumstance pray to or even give homage to anyone or anything else.  Scripture says.   "For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus." 1 Timothy 2:5

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FACT: Historical note: Roman Catholics borrowed the idea of praying with beads from the pagan religions who were already using them hundreds of years before: In 456 AD, Hindus are thought to have introduced the concept of praying with beads to the world. The earliest reference to a rosary (boberkhas) is in their "Jain Canon" (456 AD) These boberkhas had various numbers of beads 6,9,12,18,36 (any sub-multiple of 108) Islam (610 AD) uses a rosary of 99 beads, one for each of the names of God. Buddhists have 108 prayer beads on the string. The Rosary is of pagan origin and no Christian prior to 1000 AD used beads to pray.

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13.  PURGATORY?

QUESTION- Is there a place between heaven and earth called Purgatory?  

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The Catholic church teaches Purgatory is a place or con593 Purgatory- but not officially canonized until 1439 at council of Florencedition of temporal punishment for those who, departing this life in God's grace, are not entirely free from venial faults, or have not fully paid the satisfaction due to their transgressions.  Basically, Catholic theology teaches Purgatory is a place that a Christian’s soul goes to after death to be cleansed of the sins that had not been fully satisfied during life.  Purgatory was introduced in 593 AD, - but not officially canonized until 1439 at council of Florence

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Is this doctrine of Purgatory in agreement with the Bible?  What does the Bible say?

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First, To say that we must atone for our sins by cleansing in Purgatory is to deny the sufficiency of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus (1 John 2:2). The idea that we have to suffer for our sins after death is contrary to everything the Bible says about salvation.

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Second, the Bible says..

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"27 And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment,"  Hebrews 9:27

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14.  MASS- A REPETITIVE SACRIFICE

QUESTION?  Does the Bible teach the need for a repetitive sacrifice of Christ?

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The Catholic Church teaches that through communion that Christ needs to be repeatedly sacrificed for the sins of the people.  They teach the work of expiation continues through the unbloody sacrifice of the Mass for all time. Hence, for Catholics, the greatest work of expiation is through the sacrifice of the Mass by which God is placated.

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What does the Bible say?

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 "11 And every priest (referring to old testament priest) stands ministering daily and offering repeatedly the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. 12 But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God, 13 from that time waiting till His enemies are made His footstool. 14 For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified. 15 But the Holy Spirit also witnesses to us; for after He had said before, 16 “This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, says the Lord: I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds I will write them,” 17 then He adds, “Their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.” 18 Now where there is remission of these, there is no longer an offering for sin. "  Hebrews 10:11-17

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15.  TRANSUBSTANTIATION

QUESTION?  Does the Bread and Wine become the actual body and blood of Christ? 

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The Catholic Church teaches that the bread and wine actually becomes the body and blood of Christ.  

The Council of Trent summarizes the Catholic faith by declaring: "Because Christ our Redeemer said that it was truly his body that he was offering under the species of bread, it has always been the conviction of the Church of God, and this holy Council now declares again, that by the consecration of the bread and wine there takes place a change of the whole substance of the bread into the substance of the body of Christ our Lord and of the whole substance of the wine into the substance of his blood. This change the holy Catholic Church has fittingly and properly called transubstantiation (CCC, 1376).

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What does the Bible say...

First, the idea of this violates Levitical law.   

"For as for the life of all flesh, its blood is identified with its life. Therefore I said to the sons of Israel, You are not to eat the blood of any flesh, for the life of all flesh is its blood; whoever eats it shall be cut off," (Lev. 17:14).

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Second, the Lord's supper was instituted before the crucifixion.  how can this be since Jesus instituted the Supper before He was crucified?  Are we to conclude that at the Last Supper, when they were all at the table, that when Jesus broke the bread, it actually became His sacrificial body--even though the sacrifice had not yet happened?  Likewise are we to conclude that when Jesus gave the wine, that it became His actual sacrificial blood - even though the sacrifice had not yet happened?  That would make no sense at all.

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Third, any time Jesus did a miracle, there was evidence that the miracle actually took place.  For example; when Jesus turned Water to wine, it actually became wine.  When Jesus healed the sick, they actually got healed.  If a miracle actually takes place, then the bread and wine would actually become the body and blood of Christ.   

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Forth, Jesus used many figures of speech.  He said, I am the vine, you are the branches.  This didn't mean we are the literal branches.  

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Fifth, God didn't give any specific group the ability to handle the bread and wine.  

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What's important to know, is that the rules of communion for Catholics have changed repeatedly since becoming official doctrine in 1215 AD.  

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For additional information visit

https://carm.org/transubstantiation

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16.  MORTAL VS VENIAL SINS

QUESTION?  Is there a difference between mortal and venial sin?

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According to Roman Catholicism, a venial sin is a lesser sin that does not result in a complete separation from God and eternal damnation in Hell as an unrepented mortal sin would.  For example; a venial sin is telling a lie, where a mortal sin is murder.  Venial sins can be atoned for with acts of penance and good works.

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What does the Bible say?

The only true MORTAL sin is rejection of God's free gift of salvation. 

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If there was a difference between mortal or venial, the apostle Paul would have been in major trouble.   His background was persecuting and eliminating Christians before he became a believer.   Paul writes ...

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"12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry, 13 although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 14 And the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant, with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 15 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. 16 However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all long suffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life. 17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen."  1 Tim 1:12-17

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The Bible does not state that some sins are worthy of eternal death whereas others are not. All sins are mortal sins in that even one sin makes the offender worthy of eternal separation from God.

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"For there is no difference; 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed,"  Romans 3:22-25

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17.  ATONEMENT FOR GOOD WORKS

QUESTION? Can you do enough good works to get to heaven?

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According to Catholic theology certain sins can be atoned for with acts of penance and good works.  Grace is lost through mortal sin; it is preserved and increased through prayer and works done under the influence of 
God, and by means of the sacraments duly received.

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What does the Bible say..

"5 not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life."  Titus 3:5-7

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The Bible tells a powerful story of a man on the cross next to Jesus.  We don't know much about him.  However, we do know anyone who hung on a cross was the worst of sinners.  What did Jesus tell him?  Let's read the dialogue.

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"Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom. 43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”  Luke 23:42-43

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This man had no chance of doing "Good Works".  His "WORKS" were strapped to the cross.   His salvation was a result of his faith.  He couldn't do good works, yet Jesus told him "Today you will be with me in paradise."

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18.  INDULGENCES

QUESTION?  Can you apply penance and good works for those who are dead in order to help remove the sin of the dead.

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The Catholic church teaches that an indulgence is received by good works and penances and can be applied to the sins of the living and the dead (1471-79).  The Catholic church condemns under anathema (damns) those who say they are useless or who maintain that the Church has not the power to confer them.

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What does the Bible say?

There are only two places that one will end up in after death: either in heaven with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:21-23; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18) or in hell in torment (Luke 16:23-24; Revelation. 20:10-15). The Bible does not say that after death comes "further purification"; it says,

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"It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment" (Hebrews 9:28).

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Nowhere in scripture are indulgences mentioned.  Actually, any concept of PAYING for ones sins is in complete opposition to all of scripture.   

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Scripture says..

"8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.  Ephesians 2:8-9

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19.  ROLE OF POPE

QUESTION?  Do we need a pope?  Did the Bible tell us anything about a leader over the church?

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The Roman Catholic Church teaches that the Pope, "by reason of his office as Vicar of Christ, (which means in place of Christ) and as pastor of the entire church has full, supreme and universal power over the whole church, a power which he can always exercise unhindered" (882).  He exercises infallibility when "he proclaims by a definitive act a doctrine pertaining to faith or morals" (891)

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What does the Bible say?

First, on two different occasions Jesus said..."I hate the practice of the Nicolatians"  Revelation 2:6, 2:15

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Nicolatians comes from 2 Greek words.  NIKO and LAOS- NIKO means "conquering or suppression of" and LAOS means "the people".  It's the idea of any power other than himself "Over" the church.   It's rare that Jesus says he hates something, but this is something he actually hates.  

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The Bible also says...

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"He has put all things under Christ's feet and made Him, thus exalted, head of the Church"  (Eph 1: 22,23).

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"I am the Lord: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images."  Isaiah 42:8

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"12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."  Acts 4:12

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As we have also stated, the Bible also states, 

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"there is one mediator between God and man, that man Christ Jesus"  1 timothy 2:5

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Listen to Peter's words.  

"the elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ."

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Notice how Peter calls himself an elder.  With the others.  Not above the others.  

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Listen to what Jesus tells the disciples about Lordship over the church.  

"24 Now there was also a dispute among them, as to which of them should be considered the greatest. 25 And He said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those who exercise authority over them are called ‘benefactors.’ 26 But not so among you; on the contrary, he who is greatest among you, let him be as the younger, and he who governs as he who serves. 27 For who is greater, he who sits at the table, or he who serves? Is it not he who sits at the table? Yet I am among you as the One who serves."  Luke 22:24-27

 

Jesus is very clearly telling them about how there should not be Lordship over the church.  We learn elsewhere that the church is governed by a group of ELDERS.  

 

20.  SALVATION BY ANY NAME OTHER THAN JESUS

QUESTION?  Is there salvation outside of Jesus?  Does your religion save you?

 

The Catholic Church teaches that Salvation is through the Roman Catholic Church.

References

References...

CCC 846, "How are we to understand this affirmation, often repeated by the Church Fathers? Re-formulated positively, it means that all salvation comes from Christ the Head through the Church which is his Body: Basing itself on Scripture and Tradition, the Council teaches that the Church, a pilgrim now on earth, is necessary for salvation: the one Christ is the mediator and the way of salvation; he is present to us in his body which is the Church. He himself explicitly asserted the necessity of faith and Baptism, and thereby affirmed at the same time the necessity of the Church which men enter through Baptism as through a door. Hence they could not be saved who, knowing that the Catholic Church was founded as necessary by God through Christ, would refuse either to enter it or to remain in it."

 

What does the Bible say?

""12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."  Acts 4:12

 

Jesus said.

"6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."  John 14:6

 

This suggest no mediators, no priest, no religious institutions, etc. 

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21.  ROMAN CATHOLICISM COMPLETELY REMOVED THE SECOND COMMANDMENT 

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THE CATHOLIC COMMANDMENTS ARE THE FOLLOWING....

1. I am the Lord your God: You shall not have strange Gods before me.
2. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.
3. Remember to keep holy the Lord’s Day.
4. Honor your father and mother.
5. You shall not kill.
6. You shall not commit adultery.
7. You shall not steal.
8. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
9. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife.
10. You shall not covet your neighbor’s goods.

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Let's look at scripture where these are located.  Look closely at what's missing.

Exodus 20:2-17 

vs2 I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.
vs3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
vs4 Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.
vs5 Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me;
vs6 And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.
vs7 Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.
vs8 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.
vs9 Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work:
vs10 But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates:
vs11 For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
vs12 Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.
vs13 Thou shalt not kill.
vs14 Thou shalt not commit adultery.
vs15 Thou shalt not steal.
vs16 Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.
vs17 Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's. 

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"THOU SHALL NOT MAKE UNTO THEE ANY GRAVEN IMAGE " was totally removed.

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Notice how "THOU SHALT NOT MAKE UNTO THEE ANY GRAVEN IMAGE, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is int eh water under the earth."   was totally removed.   Why, because the Catholic church is decked with graven images.   They go so far as to encourage the worship of these images. 

 

 

22. .  IDOL WORSHIP

FACT: Catholics regularly bow down to idols, icons and images of Jesus, Mary and the apostles, kissing the feet of the statues and praying to them.  There are millions if not billions of statues in homes, churches, schools, etc.   Processionals are held in May to honor Mary where millions of people worldwide bow to statues of Mary while many kiss her feet.  Many Catholics have participated in  Maundy Thursday services where congregants walk down the isle to kiss the feet of a statue of Jesus.  The priest wipe the feet after each kiss.   This is not only idolatry, but a violation of the first commandment.  

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​Catholic References

1. CCC 1162, "The beauty of the images moves me to contemplation, as a meadow delights the eyes and subtly infuses the soul with the glory of God." Similarly, the contemplation of sacred icons, united with meditation on the Word of God and the singing of liturgical hymns, enters into the harmony of the signs of celebration so that the mystery celebrated is imprinted in the heart's memory and is then expressed in the new life of the faithful."

2. CCC 2132, "The Christian veneration of images is not contrary to the first commandment which proscribes idols. Indeed, "the honor rendered to an image passes to its prototype," and "whoever venerates an image venerates the person portrayed in it." The honor paid to sacred images is a "respectful veneration," not the adoration due to God alone

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First let's look at the definition of WORSHIP

-the feeling or expression of reverence and adoration for a deity

-show reverence and adoration for (a deity); honor with religious rites

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Worshipping Mary is a violation of the first commandment.  "you shall have no other gods before me"

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What is the second commandment? 

"You shall make no idols: "This commandment is found in Exodus 20:4-5

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The Pope deleted the 2nd of the 10 commandments so they could use statues & images in worship. They split the 10th commandment on coveting into two commandments so they could still have 10 in number. Don't believe this? Look at the list of 10 commandments published by the Roman Catholic church!​ 

 

So question?   Does the 2nd commandment approve of bowing down and kissing idols?

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Answer: 

​What does The Bible Say

1. Ex. 20:4-5, "You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness of what is in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the water under the earth. 5 “You shall not worship them or serve them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children, on the third and the fourth generations of those who hate Me."

2. Lev. 26:1 ‘You shall not make for yourselves idols, nor shall you set up for yourselves an image or a sacred pillar, nor shall you place a figured stone in your land to bow down to it; for I am the LORD your God."

3. Deut. 4:15-18, " 15 “So watch yourselves carefully, since you did not see any form on the day the LORD spoke to you at Horeb from the midst of the fire, 16 so that you do not act corruptly and make a graven image for yourselves in the form of any figure, the likeness of male or female, 17 the likeness of any animal that is on the earth, the likeness of any winged bird that flies in the sky, 18 the likeness of anything that creeps on the ground, the likeness of any fish that is in the water below the earth."

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