As stated previously,
The problem is, at least based upon conversations I've had with my Protestant friends, is that they do not comprehend that there is one Church and that is that (cf 1 cor 3:1-5, 1 cor 12:12ff, Eph 5:27, etc.). Jesus Christ is the head of that Church and is the bridegroom of that Church (cf Eph 5:23). He installed Peter as his "prime minister," to deal with the temporal issues relating to that Church (Matt 16:19, cf Isa 22:20-23). Additionally, they do not comprehend the concept of Apostolic succession (cf Acts 1:15ff, and many other examples of episcopal ordinations).
Until that realization happens, they will always try to get the Church to 'admit' She is just another denomination...I truly believe that in most cases, it's not a matter of evilness, I just believe it to be a matter of honestly not understanding.
I "understand" all those things you mentioned. And being a student of history I am not convinced of the RCC's claims regarding them. It's not always a matter of not understanding, but it also happens that there are many of us on the Christian (Protestant) side who simply do not accept those claims you mention.
Agreed.
If recognition of Apostolic succession is important to you and strengthens your faith, great. But to others of us, it's just not relevant.
Uhh, no. Bethelgrad is correct. It is not a matter of understanding. It is a matter of informed, intelligent, Biblically based, disagreement. Only members of the Roman church believe that the Roman church is the Catholic church, and that the doctrins of Rome are correct.
Until that realization happens, Roman church members will continue their condescending "they just don't understand" attitude.