Excellent observation, Gamecock! Ben, this entire thread is a good read. It highlights a number of places where Rome wandered off the path of the Book they claim to have given the world.
“In your post you are practicing systematic theology!”
Not really. Here is the difference:
In scripture we read, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”
Systematic theology tries to explain what time it is, where is the kingdom of God, and turns “repent and believe” into “forensic justification”.
I don’t care if someone ever believes, accepts, or can define “forensic justification”. I just want them to know Jesus, and repent and believe the gospel.
If a Catholic says, “I know I am a sinner deserving death, but God in his grace has offered me life. I believe his promise and trust him to fulfill it!” - then he is my brother in Christ, regardless of Lent or believing in transubstantiation.
Why? “...because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. 11For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” 12 For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. 13For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
There is no requirement to score 80% or higher on a theology exam. The only restriction is the Jesus we call on must be the REAL Jesus, and not, for example, the brother of Satan per Mormon theology.
Which book? The Book that Luther invented or the Vulgate?