[kinsman redeemer]

Here's one that my family experienced (when I was young, a devoted RCC, and not yet saved) --

11. The "Priest" said that I shouldn't read the Bible because it can only be properly interpreted by a "Priest."

My sister followed his directive (with some frustration) but "Thank God!" she eventually ignored his instruction, was able to learn the Truth, and came to Christ as an adult.

THAT "church" misled her, but now she is saved. Proving that God is merciful, full of grace, and ready to receive all those whose names are written in His Book of Life.

Proof of His judgement will become evident later to those who ignore His Word, His plan, and His Son.

[MayflowerMadam]

Interesting story. My dear friend’s husband was in whatever group it is to become a priest. He started in high school, and then on to a seminary-type place.

Then he started to read the Bible. Left the church, got married, raised a family, etc. (Still a lib lunatic, though.)

[fidelis]

Here's one that my family experienced (when I was young, a devoted RCC, and not yet saved) -- 11. The "Priest" said that I shouldn't read the Bible because it can only be properly interpreted by a "Priest."

I've heard that often and I don't doubt it's true in many people in the past. It's kind of taken on urban legend status like the stories of the mean nuns with the rulers-- many more people tell the story as a joke than actually experienced it. Neither one is something you'd find today, or in the last 60 or 70 years or so.

But, as a Catholic Bible teacher, I talk to a LOT of older Catholics about the Bible and just as many say they never experienced it. Today in the Catholic Church, there are so many good resources available for studying the Bible, there is no excuse.