A friend was shocked when she read my earlier post On the road to Rome?. Coming from a CofS background, she had accepted the ecumenical teaching now prevalent in that denomination. Since there may be many others like her, I feel I ought to give some explanation for why I do not consider Roman Catholicism to be a true Christian faith. For a start, Roman Catholicism is not about faith - it is a religion of works, such as penances, praying the rosary and regular attendance at Mass. This is in direct contradiction to the Bible, which states that 'by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God' (Ephesians 2:8 KJV). The Bible also clearly states that Christ is the head of the church, not the Pope, as it says in Colossians 1:18 'And he (Christ) is the head of the body, the church'.
Roman Catholicism places priests between God and man whereas the Bible tells us that 'there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Jesus Christ' (1 Timothy 2:5). Scripture also tells us that 'there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved' (Acts 4:12 NIV) however there are those in the RC church who would elevate Mary to the position of co-redeemer with Christ. Pope Benedict XVI is, at the moment, refusing to agree to this request, although some would say that this might change.
The Council of Trent, which is still in force, anathematised (cursed) any who believed that salvation was through faith alone, in Christ alone. Instead justification was declared to be offered upon the basis of faith and good works. It also upheld the use of icons in worship, which is in direct contradiction to the second commandment, upheld the doctrine of purgatory (which has no scriptural justification whatsoever) and the practice of praying to the saints, which contradicts Jesus' teaching on how to pray, namely to the Father.
If you are still not convinced, have a look at this article from a former Roman Catholic, now Baptist pastor. Many people in these days have forgotten what the reformation was about, however there are some who would still remind us and Ken Silva of Apprising Ministries is one of them. James White of Alpha and Omega Ministries is another. I thank God for them.
PS. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate that Roman Catholicism is not, in my opinion, a Christian faith. It is not for me to say whether individual Roman Catholics are Christian or not - only God ultimately knows what is in someone's heart.
