Maryjean,
You wrote:
“I take exception with your statement about Catholics having a “unique opportunity” to seek and obtain forgiveness for their indescretions. My Bible (and the Catholic Bible) say that ALL have sinned and ALL come short of the glory of God, and that Christ died for ALL. ALL have the same opportunity to seek and obtain forgiveness for our “indescretions.” “
Okay, does your Bible contain John 20:19-23? That’s confession. If you’re not participating in it, then you’re not having a “unique opportunity” to seek and obtain forgiveness for your sins.
Vlad — in that passage of Scripture, Jesus is speaking to His **disciples**, not only to Peter or His other Apostles.
I am a disciple of Jesus, and therefore (according to the passage you’ve referenced) have been given the authority to offer forgiveness in Jesus’ name.
For what it’s worth, I appreciate the clarity that this discussion has provided — Roman Catholics believe that salvation is not found in Christ alone, but in their particular denomination. And those who aren’t members of their denomination are not able to experience the fullness of Christ. Indeed, they may not even be forgiven and saved if they only trust in Jesus, and are not members of the wayward Roman Catholic Church. I appreciate how such heresy has been so clearly stated by certain Roman Catholic FReepers in this discussion. May this discussion lead people away from Rome and instead toward unadulterated faith in Jesus, our Savior.