[jo kus]

Modern Catholic soteriology really bears little resemblance to the Arminianism of the reformation which seems to have affirmed that salvation is by grace through faith and not of works. IMO the Catholic Church is mired in self righteousness and works based salvation to the point that it would seem that the work of Christ accounted for naught.

Perhaps you can begin to understand why some Catholics are bothered by you, because you repeat the same untruths over and over again, even after I personally corrected you on several ocassions. But I suppose you and your pastor know more about Catholicism then the Catechism of the Catholic Church. It is not our differences of opinion that bother Catholics here. What bothers me and many others, I think, is your refusal to even KNOW what we properly believe, even after told many times. I suppose it endangers the straw man and demolishes the necessity of a Protestant Reformation in the first place...

Comments? Please, don't take this in a negative way. I would love to discuss with you our respective views. But after we are done, at least know what we believe - even if you continue to disagree with it. The straw man you call Catholicism must be burnt at the stake...It doesn't exist. What would you say if I came here and started calling Protestants woman-beaters? Even after proven wrong, I continued to say it? Wouldn't you get slightly annoyed?

Regards

[P-Marlowe]

jo kus, those statements that you highlighted are my own conclusions regarding Catholic soteriology and theology. I have not stated them as facts. Frankly I would have to agree with Harley that pinning Catholic Theology down is like nailing jello to a tree. When you quote one Catholic Theologian there are always four or five who will loudly proclaim that what that Theologian says does not properly represent the views of Catholic Theology.

In that sense Catholic Theology is as much a muddled mess as Protestant Theology. I think the only difference is that Catholics bow to Rome as the final authority and Protestants bow to scripture (or at least they are supposed to).

IMO scripture must reign supreme. Scripture, unlike the whims of Popes and Preachers, is unchanging and if we adhere to scripture as the final arbiter of our doctrine and practices, and then call upon the Holy Spirit to teach us all things, then I believe we are safe. If, on the other hand, we put our trust in the arm of flesh we will eventually and inevitably drift off into unsound doctrines and unsound practices.

BTW, IMO The protestant reformation was not only necessary but was long overdue. But then that is my opinion. I'm sure you differ.