And what happens when numerous opinions are expressed? When if the community is torn into dissension? What secures the future of the community that keeps it from splitting into numerous factions?
Jesus prayed that we would be all one. Not numerous factions that all had their own opinion on the "Gospel once given"...
Practically speaking, the fact that leadership exists and was inititiated by the Christ, we can presume that He had a good reason.
And the gospel once given (by Paul, Peter, Matthew, John, etc.) is resident most assuredly in the scriptures. Even an Apostle once appointed ... can change his tune (witness Judas) ... so appointment really doesn’t assure veracity of the message.
I heartedly disagree. How would YOU know 2000 years later that John, Peter, Paul, etc. were actual valid writings and not fraud or that the Gnostic Gospels were real?
Regards
Practically speaking, the fact that leadership exists and was inititiated by the Christ, we can presume that He had a good reason.
I believe in the validity of Chrisitan leadership.
I simply don't believe that we can count on such leadership to be infallible, ... as evidenced by Judas ... and not a few Catholic priests/popes and Protestant ministers.
The scriptures, on the other hand, are infallible ... and provide all that is necessary for the salvation of our souls.
And the gospel once given (by Paul, Peter, Matthew, John, etc.) is resident most assuredly in the scriptures. Even an Apostle once appointed ... can change his tune (witness Judas) ... so appointment really doesn’t assure veracity of the message.
I heartedly disagree. How would YOU know 2000 years later that John, Peter, Paul, etc. were actual valid writings and not fraud or that the Gnostic Gospels were real?
It is the consensus of the Church that the writings on the Old and New Testaments are ordained of God as scripture. It is one of the things that we all agree upon.
I believe in everything that we all agree on.