[Mrs. Don-o]

"However, when they [the early Fathers]contradict the scriptures and their clear meaning, that is when we must consider their statements false."

I understand your postion. However the "clear meaning" of Scripture is often a matter of dispute. Then the question is: how do you determine the meaning of Scripture?

The usual rule of thumb is:

• (1) "Let Scripture interpret Scripture": let later or clearer Scriptures shed light on earlier or more obscure verses.
• (2) Since Scripture itself says, "The Church is the pillar and foundation of the Truth," (1 Timothy 3:15), find out how the Church interpreted Scripture, referencing for instance:

  (a) early Fathers of the Church (the Fathers don't aways agree, so we look for a "consensus of the Fathers," meaning, most of 'em);
  (b) how the early Church worshipped (e.g. ancient hymnody and Liturgy), "Lex orandi, lex credendi";
  (c) official documents of Councils and Synods...

  Way, way down he list would be:

  (x) the meaning most congenial to modern writers (last 500 years?) in critical discontinuity with the ancient Church
  (y) the meaning most congenial to 21st century American re-inventers of Church (e.g. Gay Church Interprets Scripture!) and
  (z) the meaning most congenial to me.

  Makes sense?

[what's up]

However the "clear meaning" of Scripture is often a matter of dispute

Often. However, a doctrine such as the sinfulness of created man is a fairly easy one to ascertain throughout scripture.

If you let Scripture interpret Scripture on that point there should be very little confusion.