Let’s review some of the tenets of Catholicism. Catholics are taught that salvation is available only through the Catholic church but the Bible, which was written before their were any established churches, says otherwise. When the Bible mentions church it is referring to the body of believers in Jesus Christ. Salvation is in Christ, not in a church. Catholic doctrine requires continual performance of good works which is just the opposite of what the Bible says.
John 1:12 – But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name.
Ephesians 2:8-9 – For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.
Catholicism teaches it’s the only true church of God and it has the power and authority to forgive sins. The church makes this boast because they claim the Apostle Peter as their first Pope. According to the Catholic church Peter established the church under the authority and direction of Jesus Christ. The Catholic church bases their whole authority on Matthew 16:18. Unfortunately, Catholicism has taken this verse out of context and misinterpreted it. The rock Jesus was referring to was not Peter but the fact that Jesus was himself the Christ, the eternal Rock, the Son of the living God, and those who believe in Him would be His church on this earth. This invalidates the claims of the Catholic church.
Matthew 16:16 – Simon Peter answered (Jesus) and said to him, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Matthew 16:18 – (Jesus speaking) – And I also say that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.
Mark 2:7 – Why does this Man speak blasphemies like this? Who can forgive sins but God alone?
1 Corinthians 10:4 – And all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them, and that rock was Christ.
The Catholic church views the Pope as Christ’s substitute here on earth who alone can interpret God’s Word, which would make him a prophet. The Bible is clear there will always be false prophets but we have the indwelt Holy Spirit to teach us the things of God. The Pope has assumed a position reserved for the Holy Spirit of God. In their pride Popes welcome the praise of men who kneel before them, kiss their hand and call them Holy Father, a title reserved for God alone. Catholic doctrine says Popes are infallible in matters of doctrine, faith and morals but the Bible declares that all men are sinners. The Catholic church says the Pope and ordained members of the priesthood can forgive sins but the Bible is clear only God can forgive sins and He will not give His glory to another.
Revelation 15:4 – Who shall not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy. For all nations shall come and worship before You, for Your judgments have been manifested.
Isaiah 42:8 – I am the Lord, that is My name; and My glory I will not give to another.
Romans 3:10 – As it is written: There is none righteous, no, not one.
Romans 3:23 – For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
Witnessing for Christ