annalex wrote:
“That the Church is the rule of faith above all others is indeed taught in the Scripture. See Mt 18:17-18.”
Ahhh, the one indispensable verse of the Bible ... again. Really, what need is there of all the other verses?
And he also wrote:
“Nothing comparable is said of the scripture.”
Scripture, schmipture.
And he also wrote:
“(Yes, I am familiar where it teaches that the man of God completes his priestly formation by studying the scripture, which is divinely inspired and useful for reproof...).”
Priestly formation ... truly scriptural terminology ... but, then again, Scripture, schmipture, who cares? Priestly formation ... it just rolls off the tongue so, so ... well. It sounds just like Jesus ... well, not, but then again what did He know, he was never the bishop of Rome ... poor sod.
And he also wrote:
“The holy Scripture is useful. But the Church, not only the scripture written by the Church, binds with a heavenly bond.”
Yup, the Bible has its uses, but the CHURCH, now that is where it’s at. The church knows all. The church knows better than God ... Caiaphas, call your office. How dare God? We’ll tell the Word of God what it really says.
You know, annalex, this path has been trod before. It didn’t work very well then. What makes you think that ... ?
Never mind. It is pointless.
Our belief is that the Holy Scripture is inerrant. That means that a single verse, taken in context is sufficient to form the basis of a dogma. Mt. 18:17-18 is a quote in context; the concept of the unique rule making role of the Church is supported by quite a few other verses, and no similar role is given the Scripture. If you have any scriptural argument to make, make it.
[25]... Christ also loved the church, and delivered himself up for it: [26] That he might sanctify it, cleansing it by the laver of water in the word of life: [27] That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle, or any; such thing; but that it should be holy, and without blemish (Eph 5)Take heed to yourselves, and to the whole flock, wherein the Holy Ghost hath placed you bishops, to rule the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood (Acts 20:28)
Scripture, schmipture, who cares?
I am Catholic so I care.