Basics Questions on Roman Catholicism
What does the word Catholic mean?
The term ‘Catholic’ is derived from the Greek word ‘katholikos,’ which means ‘universal.’ Within the context of Christianity, it signifies the concept of the universal church, representing all members of Christ’s body across the globe.
How big is the Roman Catholic church?
The Roman Catholic Church is the largest Christian denomination worldwide. According to the Vatican, it has over 1.2 billion adherents who participate in weekly Mass services, making it a major religious institution with a significant global presence.
When did the Roman Catholic Church begin?
The origins of the Roman Catholic Church are often linked to the early 4th century AD, particularly to the reign of the Roman Emperor Constantine.
After his conversion to Christianity, Constantine played a pivotal role in its transformation. In 313 AD, he issued the Edict of Milan, granting Christianity legal status and ending its persecution within the Roman Empire. This event marked a turning point for the Christian faith, transitioning from a persecuted sect to an officially recognized religion.
However, the establishment of the Roman Catholic Church as a distinct entity evolved over time, influenced by various theological, political, and cultural developments in the centuries that followed.
From where does the Catholic Church get its authority?
The source of authority in any religious organization is foundational, as it underpins the entire belief system.
In Roman Catholicism, authority is derived from three primary sources: the Bible, Tradition (passed down through generations), and the Magisterium (the teaching authority of the Church, including the Pope and bishops).
The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains this tripartite source of authority:
“. . .the Church, to whom the transmission and interpretation of Revelation is entrusted, ‘does not derive her certainty about all revealed truths from the holy Scriptures alone. Both Scripture and Tradition must be accepted and honored with equal sentiments of devotion and reverence.”
(Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 82.)
Furthermore, the Catechism states:
“It is clear therefore that, in the supremely wise arrangement of God, sacred Tradition, Sacred Scripture, and the Magisterium of the Church are so connected and associated that one of them cannot stand without the others. Working together, each in its own way, under the action of the one Holy Spirit, they all contribute effectively to the salvation of souls.”
(1994 Catechism of the Catholic Church – Pg. 29, #95)
This fundamental difference has led to an erosion of truth within the Roman Church, since anything can now be considered “authoritative” if the Church so decides. Due to this, numerous non-biblical traditions and doctrines have been welcomed by the Church, including Mass, Penance, Veneration of Mary, Purgatory, Indulgences, the Priesthood, the Confessional, the Rosary, and the inclusion of idols.
The Protestants on the other hand hold to the belief that the Bible is the sole authority for all believers.
The crux of the matter lies in deciding which authority to trust for our eternal destiny. Protestants believe that the Bible, as God’s sure, perfect, and final word, contains everything necessary for salvation and living a Christian life.
This belief is supported by passages like 2 Timothy 3:15-17, which states:
2 Timothy 3:15-17 (NKJV)
and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
While the Catholic Church acknowledges the Bible as a sacred text, it does not view it as the sole final authority on truth. The Bible, (as understood by Protestants), is seen as an authoritative, influential, and divinely inspired book, claiming to be the source of all truth.