[HarleyD]

Personally I find jude's statement a little strange coming from a Protestant. Catholics base their interpretation upon what comes from the Church as the Church interprets it. Protestants review the different councils and creeds, compare it with the scriptures and then see if they agree with it or not based upon how God speaks to their hearts. The Protestant view puts more responsibility upon the believer to study the word and show themselves approved.

We all harbor prejudices but frankly that is not an excuse. Saying you agree with what is written in councils and creeds can be dangerous and, frankly, very Catholic in nature. How does one know a council didn't harbor prejudices and that you are supporting those prejudices?

I would simply point to those in the early church who were being swayed by the Jews who said it was wrong to eat unclean animals. Even though Paul was young in the church and certainly not a raking member he found it necessary to stand up to such people as Peter, James and John by going back to the scriptures and reason. It set them on the right course.

To hide behind councils and creeds is not the intent of Protestantism. Councils and creeds only serve as guidelines which, if found untrue, should be tossed. The only thing we know is true is God's word. Protestantism correctly recognize everyone is a priest before God accountable for their OWN actions.

[annalex]

those in the early church who were being swayed by the Jews who said it was wrong to eat unclean animals. Even though Paul was young in the church and certainly not a raking member he found it necessary to stand up to such people as Peter, James and John by going back to the scriptures and reason. It set them on the right course.

I think you got your scripture wrong. It was St. Peter who received the vision about unclean animals, and convinced the Jerusalem council (Acts 10-15).

You probably meant the episode about not eating with the Gentiles, related by St. Paul in Galatians 2.