"I love the arguement that the Catholic Church is the authority on interpreting the Bible because the Catholic Church's interpretation says so. Circular logic."
I suppose such an argument would be circular, if the Catholic Church in fact made that argument. However, it doesn't. The Church, as a living body, derives's its authority directly from Christ. The Church preceded the New Testament books, its members wrote the scripture under inspiration. I believe the scriptures are scripture on the Church's authority. No cirularity there.
However, if you believe in sola scriptura, do you have a noncircular proof of it, that doesn't first presume the scriptures authority?
A private reply would be fine, not looking for a theological debate on FR.
A non-circular proof of Sola Scriptura...
That's easy: faith that the New Testament was inspired by the Holy Spirit. The Catholic Church no more created the New Testament Canon than Newton created the basic principles of physics.
To be included in the Bible, each book had to pass two standards. First, it had to have a history of continuous and widespread approval amongst Christians. Second, it was expected to demonstrate that it had either been written by an apostle or specifically approved by the apostles.
The Muratorian Canon (approximately AD 170) only differs on 4 books. This shows widespread ealy support for the established canon.
The church may bear witness to the canon, but the church did not create the canon. I follow an Apostolic Church. A church founded by the Apostles. The words of the Apostles, inspired by the Holy Spirit, are sufficient for my salvation. I am saved by grace, through faith, for works.
I do not believe I require the Catholic Church or any of its traditions for salvation. If you can, name one teaching or tradition of the Catholic Church (not contained in the Bible) that I require for salvation.
Once you have the Bible as inspired by the Holy Spirit, the rest is easy. But we'll disagree, so I won't continue.
I really do have an open mind about the Catholic Church. However, other than the keys given to Peter, I have yet to see an intersting or believable arguement to support the Catholic Church's claims.