My data is my Catholic education. Which has been in the same continuous tradition going back 2000 years - i.e., this is an institution, a community of belief, the Church.
Christianity was founded as a community.
I understand what Mr. Bush said perfectly well, in the argument between that tradition and the “literalist” arguments of the last few centuries and today.
“My data is my Catholic education. Which has been in the same continuous tradition going back 2000 years - i.e., this is an institution, a community of belief, the Church.
Christianity was founded as a community.”
buwaya,
Off the subject of Bush somewhat:
That Catholic tradition is indeed long and continuous for the most part - which is commendable!
I have always been fascinated in that the MSM has consistently given the Catholic church the univeral term “the church”, just as you did in your post.
Certainly the Catholic church is a ‘community of belief’ as you say.
Acts chapters 2 and 4 and others speak clearly about a community of faith and belief.
Jesus said, “...upon this rock I will build my church”. He also said, “I am the way and the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father except through me.”
Scripture also says, “And do not call anyone on earth ‘father’, for you have one father and he is in heaven.” Read Matthew 23 - it does not only apply to Pharisees....
With this being said and Matt 23, please explain the value and hierarchy of a “God on Earth” - the Pope? And how the specific Catholic church became known as ‘the church’ as an exclusive?
“The church” as described in scripture, is Christs church exclusively and was established by him alone. It was never and never will be an institution or hierarchical mega corporation where sins are confessed to a man and forgiven by mere men. Jesus alone, is our mediator as scripture says.
And I’m sure I’m about to get flagged as a bad boy.