So having clergy that take oaths of poverty and that do not have the responsibility for supporting an extended family might lead to a more sound theology and good teaching? Sounds like you are knee deep in the Tiber.
Congrats. That there may have been a world record leap.
Obviously we need to get you some reading lessons to go with those new glasses. The Scriptures of the NT does not identify a profession such as "clergy". Elders were simply "greybeards" of families who were gifted to teach the message of grace. All had other jobs. Even Paul, the apostle, made tents for a living as necessary.
Rome has morphed this simple system into a monstrosity of epic proprotions...and failed. The sacerdotalists have wrongly made it into a profession and don't live in poverty, even though they claim to. I have seen the monasteries where they manufacture fudge, sell books, and enjoy a wonderful country life (Oregon, near McMinville). The protestors corrected some of this cult-like error, but not all. But, definitely no worry...no danger in me even putting a toe in the Tiber.
Obviously we need to get you some reading lessons to go with those new glasses. The Scriptures of the NT does not identify a profession such as "clergy". Elders were simply "greybeards" of families who were gifted to teach the message of grace. All had other jobs. Even Paul, the apostle, made tents for a living as necessary.
Rome has morphed this simple system into a monstrosity of epic proprotions...and failed. The sacerdotalists have wrongly made it into a profession and don't live in poverty, even though they claim to. I have seen the monasteries where they manufacture fudge, sell books, and enjoy a wonderful country life (Oregon, near McMinville). The protestors corrected some of this cult-like error, but not all. But, definitely no worry...no danger in me even putting a toe in the Tiber.