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Petronius,

I'll be off the forum for at least the next two weeks, so I may not be able to get back to you right away when you respond. In my discussion with you, it's my impression that you are a person of good hope. That means people will look to you for advice and guidance on things related to faith. The point underlying my post was that the moral law applies to Christians, and we must be clear in teaching this. There is no assurance of salvation for those who break the commandments. To intentionally and willfully break the Commandments is to put ones salvation in jeopardy, and make a presumption upon the mercy of Christ.

I hope your weekend is an enjoyable one.

-IQ

IQ -

Man! I was just about to sit down and respond to you (finally!) I apologize for the delay. I've spent a good bit of time in research and have found some things that you will find interesting. Needless to say it is a complex issue. There are certainly portions of Scripture that seem to confirm your position (in addition to the historic position of the Church). There are also portions of Scripture that seem to confirm the position of those holding to "eternal security". It's almost a predestination/freewill type issue, with scriptures solidly in each camp - and no "logical" synthesis seemingly possible.

It's also not specifically a Catholic vrs Protestant issue. There are a large number of non-Catholic/Orthodox Christians who believe salvation can be lost (Methodists, Anglicans etc.)

***There is no assurance of salvation for those who break the commandments.***

"Eternal security" rightly understood should not be seen as a prideful license to sin. To do so would horrify the Protestant fathers. Eternal security is the expression of a heart that realizes that it can do no good in and of itself and can not even keep itself in the right way without the Divine and controlling hand of the Almighty.

I too am about to head out of town (long delayed vacation with the kiddos!) and will be back around the 10th. Let's try to hook back up and continue this discussion. At that point I will share with you some of the things I have found.

Hope you have a safe and pleasant trip!