[annalex]

if we’re going to go beyond what’s written in Scripture and claim that it’s from the Apostles, how are we to tell if it’s not false teaching?

We look at the source and at the continuity of teaching with that of the Early Church, reflected both in the Holy Scripture and in the commentaries of the Fathers.

On the other hand, when a charlatan like Luther shows up 1500 years later and invents the theology he likes, then by that very fact we know that he cannot be right.

[bert]

Ha, now that is irrational balderdash support an indefensable position

[aMorePerfectUnion]

“We look at the source and at the continuity of teaching with that of the Early Church, reflected both in the Holy Scripture and in the commentaries of the Fathers.

And yet half of Rome’s teachings can’t be found before 100ad.

So there is no continuity.

[Luircin]

Oh look, the obsession with Luther rears its ugly head. I’m talking about Jesus and the Apostles. If Luther happens to agree with them, cool.

If Rome really is the ‘one true church’ then why do Roman teachings contradict the plain words of Scripture, which we both agreed is the teaching of the Apostles?

I would think that the Apostles meant what they said and said what they meant.

[ealgeone]

We look at the source and at the continuity of teaching with that of the Early Church, reflected both in the Holy Scripture and in the commentaries of the Fathers.

And if you do...and you're honest....you will have to admit there is no "unamimous" consent among the ECFs on those issues Rome holds so dear.

[boatbums]

On the other hand, when a charlatan like Luther shows up 1500 years later and invents the theology he likes, then by that very fact we know that he cannot be right.

What "theology" do you presume Luther invented? I'm an Evangelical Protestant - though I reject labels like those - and I can prove EVERY doctrine I hold in my Christian faith from Sacred Scripture. Can Roman Catholicism do that?

The Early Church Fathers you like to claim didn't always agree with each other in their commentaries and teachings, but they DID use Holy Scripture as their rule of faith and many disputed heresy by the more knowledgable application of Divinely-inspired Scripture.

How do you think those within the Christian faith communities determined what were the major tenets of Christianity? We have today the "more sure word of prophecy" because we have the Holy Spirit inspired and preserved revelation of those truths. Our assurance that they are true is based upon the Holy Spirit speaking through them to the hearts of those who listen for their shepherd and follow him. His truth is established in word and in power.

Jesus said, "My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them out of My hand." (John 10:27,28)