[Mrs. Don-o]

If you ignore or bypass what the Bible teaches about the authority of the Church, and especially if you don't even read Hebrew and Greek --- it's hopeless. There's nothing more I can say.

So, let me ask first: Do you accept what the Bible says about the Church being "the pillar and foundation of the Truth"? (If you do not, then I have another question: "Do you believe the Bible?")

If you do believe the Bible, then your frame of reference should be the "pillar and foundation of the Truth." the Church; not your own inclinations and not your fellow FReepers. For guidance on difficult matters having to do with Divine Revelation, read what the Ecumenical Councils taught (starting with Nicaea in 325 AD.)

It's very beautiful and very meaningful, but not something you can arrive at without the God-authorized teaching authority of the Church.

[jkl1122]

The church is to be the defender of Truth, not the originator of Truth.

[Ottofire]

I would suggest for those with budding faith to find the Gospel and read, and absorb. Jesus did not directly speak of the Trinity, but did tell us to baptize in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19) in the Great Commission. It is indeed a mystery, something which might be beyond our understanding until we are all called home. But Nicene Creed explains what we DO know about the whole thing.

Jesus and His Word are the cornerstone of the Church, and what He says in the Gospel is enough to bring us to God. And communion with the Body of Christ is not just a help, but essential to growth in the faith. The brothers and sisters in a church can guide you and support you in ways that you might not realize.