oLofob wrote:
“Luther did keep much of the Catholic Faith in his new sect, but added many doctrines unknown to the Church up until that time.”
Sect? I think not. Try not to be purposely inflammatory.
Added many doctrines unknown to the Church? Really? Name ‘em.
Luther tore apart the Christian world? So, the Reformation era popes and their “advisors” have no responsibility here? Everything is the fault of the kids? Tell me that you really believe that. The corruption of the whole papal structure was both deep and widespread. And it have never fully dealt with its own corruption.
John 17. You think Luther did know and deeply understand it? You think it is not known and prayerfully pondered in Lutheran circles today?
So, I will agree with you this far: Where we agree on doctrine I praise God. I only wish the pope and his advisors had ... (the list is long) It begins with acknowledging the normative authority of the Holy Scriptures, which was most certainly the attitude of the trustworthy Church fathers.
not trying to be inflammatory, i apologize. name them? sola scriptura, sola fide, consubstantiation? ( not sure i spelled that right )
i do blame the popes and their advisors as well, i believe they excommunicated Luther if my memory serves me right. the Church was corrupt and needed a Reformation, just not a doctrinal revolution!
BTW - the Church has always taught the normative authority of the Scriptures, what it doesn’t believe in is private interpretation.
BTW - my wife is Lutheran and when i join her for services, sometimes if i closed my eyes, i would think i am at a Catholic Mass ( i have to remember not to cross myself, but i still lower my head when the name of Jesus is mentioned, so i am sure i am outed in the pews!! )