Excellent!
The Marks of the Church:
The Sacraments
The Word of God, rightly divided and preached to the people of God.
- Martin Luther
Any of these marks cover Visible (versus irrational, invisible church of the gazillion sects of Protestants, all disagreeing about everything)?
I was having trouble finding the part that justifies screwing little boys and covering it up, and then there it was #15.
I like the 15 just as much as I like the four!
Too bad that ALL churches cannot brag about these marks or faith!
Sola Scriptura
Scripture Alone, knowledge of salvation comes from the Bible alone; it teaches all that is necessary for salvation and holy living. Scripture is the final authority on all matters of doctrine and practice. This is contrasted with the Roman Catholic view of Papal or Magisterial infallibility. This doctrine is violated when any authority is placed alongside or over the Scriptures.
Sola Fide
Faith Alone, salvation is through faith alone. Faith is the only instrument through which the benefits of Christ’s atonement are applied. This is contrasted with the Roman Catholic view of faith and good works. This doctrine is violated when any other instrument becomes necessary for salvation.
Sola Gratia
Grace Alone, salvation is by grace alone. Salvation is entirely gracious. Sinners are saved without any merit in themselves. This is contrasted with the Roman Catholic view of cooperation and merit. This doctrine is violated when anything is added to or taken away from the unmerited favor of salvation.
Solus Christus
Christ Alone, salvation is in Christ alone. Christ is the exclusive author and mediator of salvation. This is contrasted with the Roman Catholic view of the intercession of saints and mediation of priests. This doctrine is violated when any man or institution is made necessary for salvation.
Soli Deo Gloria
To God Alone Be the Glory, salvation is to the glory of God alone. Salvation, from beginning to end is exclusively the work of God. Therefore, the credit and glory belong to God alone. This is contrasted with the Roman Catholic view that God and man cooperate in salvation, thus giving credit or glory to both God and man. This doctrine is violated when any merit, value, effort, credit or glory is ascribed to any other but God.
BTTT for this older thread.
But whose version? There is Roman Catholic and then there are the Orthodox who will tell you they are the original and true Catholic church? Sheesh, it never ends.
Meanwhile, I often think of Ghandi’s statements that he really liked Jesus but it was His followers that he had issues with. I would say the same of the Catholic Church. There is great beauty in the rituals and meaning of the Catholic Church. I love their traditions, and even their continuity (since I don’t give much credence to the rebels who want to have gay marriage, etc. okayed). However, wowee, when I think of all the Catholics I know and how they live their lives on a DAILY basis...it’s very scary. Of course, are they REALLY Catholic?