Plain sense interpretations of scripture taken out of context don't convince me. These passages don't add up to the conclusion you make at the end.
The problem here is one of interpretation. I also believe that even for the Faithful "our finite minds cannot successfully accomplish the task, and that we will often get it wrong". This is because I don't think there is more than one true interpretation. Truth is objective and eternal.
When disputes arise, there needs to be an authority that settles the dispute. Over time a group dedicated and specifically educated and with the help of the Holy Spirit has the teaching authority to settle disputes. This provides the best method by which fallible humans can discern infallible teachings. The Apostle Peter did not believe scripture was for private interpretation. True teachers are the Apostles and those who have followed in the Apostolic succession.
If I decide to reject the teaching authority of two thousand years to go with my own interpretations then that would be me making my own truth.
Agreed. But that is not true of Protestantism, as a whole.............though for sure, some individuals do that.
I think this debate between Catholicism and Protestantism is off topic, but if there is ever a thread where it applies, I would enjoy discussing it with you.
I do see where you're coming from in terms of doctrine and authority, but where I have problems is your equating 'making up your own truth' with the absence of a church body interpreting Scripture on my behalf.
But to tell the truth, as Protestant churches getter farther and farther afield in throwing out all theology for the sake of popularity and ease, I am drawn more closely to the strength of Catholicism to buck the trends of pop culture and adhere to the truth of Scripture.