A Catholic who is extremely well-read on Scripture is often a powerful weapon for the Church. I grew up in Southern Baptist churches doing a program called Awana where we memorized tons of Bible verses, which was immensely helpful. I want to start something similar for Catholic kids one day.
What a great job . Clearly coming from looking for the truth. Moved by the spirit of God. What an experience to share. Thanks for educating us Catholics, this a deficiency we have and to think we have all this to our disposal, if we were just wanted to learn from and lean on our church!
Isn't there something called Kawana??? I remember going, but it was so long ago I may be mixing memories of it with other wkend Bible Studies. --I'm Catholic(raising our son Catholic, but attend Grace Assembly, too; my husband plays Bass there & the Pastor is practically family).--I'm Catholic(went to Catholic primary School), BUT around 9yrs old my mom encouraged us to accept all invites to join friends going to their Christian denominations(Bible study& all; while still regularly taking Mass). --I was often excited going to sleepover Saturday nights & asking if we'd be going to their Church in the morning(some didn't seem to go regularly, but happy to go)! --Most Christian denominations are the same; we're just using various different methods to teach/guide ppl & help them develop their own personal relationship with Christ🤷
@@sharonodom6575 the denominations aren’t the same. It’s a sin to partake of communion at a Protestant church if you’re a Catholic, because their beliefs on the Eucharist is a manifest heresy. Now that’s not to say Protestants are necessarily fully culpable, but Catholics are because we know better. We should also be careful of allowing our kids to get swayed by any denomination, as they’re deviations from the true faith. That said I would definitely attend a Protestant service, and do from time to time for various reasons, but I avoid communion and most corporal prayer (we can’t be sure they won’t pray something that runs counter to Catholic teaching and we don’t want to attach ourselves to it if they do). We must worship Christ in Spirit and in Truth, and the Catholic Church is the only true Church, so we can’t say the others are the same or give them any validity. They’re brothers in Christ in many cases but they’re still invalid because they are not in communion with the authorities God established (the Pope and Bishops).
Could I ask how Awana was run broadly? I am new born catholic, and I absolutely agree the best way to truly reach out to fellow Protestant friend is to approach them from their framework/premises of sola scriptura as it is difficult to expect them to enter our framework and teach them that way. Do you have any tips to remembering bible verses, asking for myself?
@@wendywang1770 it was similar to the Boy Scouts. They had uniforms and badges you could earn, and it was coed so girls and boys could both join. There were badges you could earn for completing Boy Scout-like tasks, but by and large they were earned for memorizing Scripture. You could get so many stripes on your sleeve by memorizing a high number of verses. The best way to memorize verses was to break them down and memorize them one piece at a time, as well as try to write them out from memory until you could do it flawlessly.
I was a former protestant pastor who preached the Gospel of John chapter six along with the church fathers while teaching on Holy Communion. Church members who were former Catholics confronted me that I sounded Catholic. Within nine months, I left my position and was received into Full Communion with the Roman Catholic Church.✝️⚪🍷💕
@@brucewmclaughlin9072 To put it simply, he has the FULLNESS of the faith, capped by the incomparable Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist. The most personal relationship with Christ that exists on earth. Pray tell: how is that a bad thing?
Welcome Home, Bryan. I was Baptist the first 34 years of my life and converted to Catholic. Best spiritual decision I have ever made. Truth and Scripture always will point to the Catholic Church, the Church of the Living God.
I'm a new Catholic of less than two years. But the more I learn and practice the faith, the more it's truth seems obvious to me. What seemed complicated from the outside is actually so simple l.
Jesus gives ONLY Peter the KEYS to Heaven thus he is the main authority! (CCC 881) (Mathew 16:19) Jesus also gives Apostles church authority NOT a Book! (CCC 881) (Mathew 18:17-20, 28:19-20) (Luke 10:16) (1522 A.D.) Martin Luther: “Christ wrote NOT His teaching and gave no command to write it.” Weimarer Ausgabe (WA) (W.A., 10, pp. 625-28) Not everything Jesus did is in the Bible! (John 21:25) (2 Thessalonians 2:15) “Teach” what he heard from Paul (2 Timothy 2:2) “Scripture is profitable for reproof.” “Profitable” (KJV) “Ophelimos” (Koine Greek) means USEFUL not SUFFICIENT! (2 Timothy 3:16) (Strong’s Concordance 5624)
I’m a Protestant but I’ve been listening to Catholics speak of the true church and I have to say I want to know more. I enjoying listening to both Catholics and Protestant guides us to Christ. And we have many things alike but also difference but I know to be wise and listen to both. I know we are all brother and sisters of Christ and ask that you pray for me. Thank you for sharing this video will definitely read on it!
I recommend you buy the book the 4th cup by Doctor Scott Hahn.. it’s an easy read and will not take you long to read it. It goes very very deep on the Eucharist and finding it in scripture from Old Testament to New Testament and ties the Passover feast to the last supper. I have made it part of my morning prayer and I reflect on it it’s very deep book and it connected so many dots for me that I never knew before. It’s a wonderful book and highly recommend it. It really has deepened my faith. I will pray for you may find truth! God Bless you!
I was a fallen away Catholic for 26 years and attended non-denominational churches. After coming across Catholic apologetics, I came back to the Catholic Church about 15 years ago. ❤
Deuteronomy Ch 5 v 8 8 “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. 9 You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, 10 but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.
@@DanHutchings-xx7ugHave you ever heard : While a weak Catholic could become a Protestant, but, on the other hand, a STRONG Protestant could become a Catholic.
When I met a person I hadnt seen for 25 years they were surprised that I had converted to the Catholic Faith. They asked me what inspired me to do that. I replied "You guys told me to read the Sacred Scriptures so I did".
Glad you read the scriptures as they contain God's written word to us . So to accept the roman Catholic church as being true , you would have to accept several concepts in the roman Catholic church that are not in scripture?
@@brucewmclaughlin9072Do you mean your interpretation of scripture? The whole Protestant service is based on a pagan service! Protestants disagree with each other and criticize each other just look on social media. You probably need the Holy Spirit to help you understand the truth.
I pray that one day soon, East and West will be reunited once again. Not only is unity what our Lord desired, but we have so much to teach and share with one another. The Eastern Catholic Churches -- some of which were Orthodox and rejoined Rome -- have so greatly enriched the West and vice versa. I would love to be able to say the same about the rest of the Orthodox Churches throughout the world. Lastly, things are getting worse around the world, with ever increasing confusion due to the influence of modernism and the persecutions by multiple enemies of the faith. We need each other more than ever. What's the old saying? 🤔 "Feuding brothers reconcile when a maniac is breaking down the door." God Bless you and yours. 🙏
As a staunch catholic I commend you for explaining the catholic faith so beautifully and humbly. Thank you very much. May the Holy Spirit of God lead you to the fullness of the truth. Merlyn
Ye must be born again to enter heaven. Anyone who adds anything to or removes anything from Gods word will have their name blotted out of the book of life. You can’t earn salvation. Mary is not our intercessor Jesus alone is. You’re being told lies. Purgatory doesn’t exist, praying to Mary or saints is idolatry as is bowing before her statue, priests can’t forgive sins, the list goes on and on of the false doctrines that violate Gods word. I’ve even heard a Catholic claim you must be buried in a Catholic cemetery or else you can’t go to heaven. You can’t earn salvation. You’re incapable of being a good person none of can be. Jesus alone was sinless. It’s a bold face lie that Mary was sinless. Read the Bible. Your church claims they wrote the Bible yet they don’t follow it. That’s going to send billions to hell. Salvation comes by faith in Jesus alone and believing traditions contrary to His word are and they will lead to eternal death
No , no , no come out of that church , it's truly Satan''s church , Islam his religion wrong teachings , sexual immorality , come out and God will bless you
Quote the bible (book, chapter and verse) and debunk these: (NO sarcasm please) FACTS: Christ NEVER taught that Peter is a pope. Christ NEVER taught that Mary will go to heaven. Christ NEVER taught that Mary is a mediator/intercessor. Christ NEVER taught that Mary never sinned. Christ NEVER taught that Mary remained virgin. Christ NEVER Taught that a mere man is head of His church. Christ NEVER taught about a church named Catholic. Christ NEVER taught that we can pray to the dead. Christ NEVER taught that the dead can hear our prayers. Christ NEVER taught that anyone can change the day of worship. Christ NEVER taught to confess to a "priest" Christ NEVER Taught a priest can forgive your sins. Christ NEVER taught salvation is through a church. Christ NEVER taught to pray to, or with beads!!! Christ NEVER started a church named Catholic!!! >>>> Question where can I find in scripture? Indulgences? Penance? Black Pope? The Church's records tell us there were potentially three Black popes in Catholic history: Pope Victor I, who headed the church from 189-199, Pope Miltiades (311-314), and Pope Gelasius I, who was pope from 492-496 Confession booth? Purgatory? Baby baptism? December 25th Easter? Monstrance? Unmarried priest? Priest drinking wine ? Wizard hat? Mitre Kissing of statues? Burning incense to statues? Sprinkle “ so called Holy Water “ on statues and people? The use of Coptic shell decoration on baby baptism bowl? Praying to the dead? Please attach scripture of any Hebrew keeping SUNDAY as a holy day? You think this is fun right you think I have nothing better to do with my life???? You think Satan cares about you? I know he hates me…. He can use his servants as vipers Christ has given the solution….HIS WORD ! This is not personal. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> CHRISTIAN The Greek word Χριστιανός (Christianos), meaning "follower of Christ", comes from Χριστός (Christos), meaning "anointed one", FOLLOWERS of the TEACHINGS of Christ!!! Written 2000 years ago! NOT my interpretation!!!
This is one of the most important videos from an experienced former Calvanist pastor who gives all his experience of what really the Protestants' scripture alone mindset is. It really helps Catholics to prepare in advance of any encounter with any of them. Thank you, Dr. John Bergsma, for this useful video. I'm looking forward to more. You and Dr Scott Hahn are doing a wonderful job at the University. GOD BLESS
Thank you Dr Bergsma! I work at a Christian pregnancy medical clinic where half the staff are Protestant and the other Catholic. I had to sign a mission statement that said the Bible is the authority of our Christian beliefs which I believe is “sola scriptura”. So now I have some information to share with my director who is Protestant.
@@user-yn1hw4me5rprotestant’s are NOT Christian. And tell your director that the bible a Catholic book condemns so called sola scriptura. In Timothy its says the pillar and foundation of truth is the Church and that Church is the holy Catholic Church because it’s the ONLY CHURCH
Luther created a whole host of man made traditions , and the numerous Protestant churches continue to build on that . Former Protestant who converted at 65 and came home to the Catholic Church .I praise my Lord Jesus for calling me home .
I came into the church at this year’s Easter Vigil. I’m 64 and left my office manager job of 21+ years at my Protestant church. I’ve learned so much from the wonderful ex-prot Catholic scholars.
Martin Luther created a malignant set of human traditions and sided with the jews who killed the Lord Jesus Christ just to fight the Catholic church of the Lord! Protestantism is identical to the jews hate to the Lord
Long time practicing Catholic here. Here is what I learned from non Cathlic Christians ...develop a personal relationship with Christ and read scripture. Catholic should do this while centering their faith on the Eucharist as the the "source and summit" of our faith.
No good that the non Catholic Christians ‘read’ scripture and didn’t get it to come home to the Catholic Church. Don’t let Catholics read scripture that way.!
@@astudent9905 this makes more sense to me. I don’t wish to encourage Catholics to leave their faith, as I did, if it is answering a need and this is the type of service you can appreciate. But…big BUT…most Catholics do not read the scriptures and blindly accept all of Rome’s mandates, relying on that to get them into heaven via purgatory. It simply doesn’t work that way, and the blind devotion to, for example, Mary and the Saints, which is falling into idolatry quite frankly is dangerous. My worry, as so many I know are Catholic (including family) is arrival at judgement to hear, “depart from Me. I never knew you.” Catholicism is absolutely a faith that demands additional works, which is completely opposite of the saving by grace. When you sell a Jesus, and his sacrifice on the cross, which was complete for all time, you are saying you can attain heaven, without the death and resurrection of our Messiah. God bless
@@dallasbrat81 Huh? You mean a Pro-Life Rally? The Catholic Church has never wavered in its position against the murder of the unborn. The Monday after the Supreme Court decision allowing abortion, we Catholic students had an information desk set up in the Student Union at tge University of Massachusetts in Amherst.
Excellent walk through. Very helpful. I was raised Assemblies of God, attended many Protestant churches, just this year was confirmed was Catholic at 53 years old. Praise God!
Deuteronomy Ch 5 v 8 8 “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. 9 You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, 10 but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.
@@berean1703Stop already! Do you have anything else to say? You don't understand what Catholics believe and it is obvious you don't want to. It's very uncharitable.
@@sproutfire8878 Since when is truth defined as trolling? If you read the bible you will see Christ's church would prevail the gates of hell, why would you think the Deconstruction movement would impact it?
@@sammygomes7381 your right, Christ's church will prevail the gates of hell. Brother, what type of Christian are you? Who founded your denomination and in what year?
It has been two years since I was brought into the Catholic Church! The proverbial scales began to fall off my eyes with Matthew 16:18, the entirety of John 6, John 20:21-23, and Acts 2: where Mattathias is appointed to replace Judas. This is the first time that I’ve seen these other verses in a Catholic apologetic perspective and I must say it was fascinating how I had missed the implications of these verses as well during my time as a Protestant. This is a phenomenal video and I hope to share it with loved ones.
No , no , no come out of that church , it's truly Satan''s church , Islam his religion wrong teachings , sexual immorality , come out and God will bless you
St Paul Center does have an incredible amount of excellent content. Unfortunately, it is a subscription service. They did offer a free trial during Lent which Miah be of interest to you next year.
I read the NT cover to cover age 50 and converted from Episcopalian to Catholic. “Henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.” Yes beloved BVM, Catholics do 💖
Deuteronomy Ch 5 v 8 8 “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. 9 You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, 10 but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.
@@berean1703do you carry photos of your loved ones in your wallet? If so, do you love the photo, or do you love your loved one and the photo helps you remember how much you love them?
@@berean1703 Another uneducated protestant! Catholics honor NOT worship images & statues! “Honour all men.” (1 Peter 2:17) (Luke 24:4-5) (CCC 2084-86, 2677) (CCC 2132) “The honor paid to sacred images is a ‘respectful veneration’, NOT the Adoration due to God alone.” Saints BOW to crowns, alter & throne (Revelation 4:10, 8:3) Joshua BOWS to the Ark (Joshua 7:6-8) Jesus’ feet Kissed (Luke 7:38), 17 Dead Jews Honored (Hebrews 11), (379 A.D.) St. Basil: “Apostles I honour and kiss their images NOT forbidden in all churches.” (Letters 360) Moses makes graven images of cherubims (Exodus 25:18) & a serpent (Numbers 21:8-9), temple had images of animals, cherubims, trees, flowers (1 Kings 6:29, 7:25, 36), people BOW to David (1 Kings 1:31), Jacob (Genesis 27:29), Saint Paul (Acts 16:25-31), angels (Genesis 18:1-4, 22), the Ark, Mercy Seat, cherubims (Joshua 7:6-8), throne (Revelation 7:11), temple (Psalms 5:7), Jerusalem (Daniel 6:10), fire (2 Chronicles 7:1-4), David calls Saul “Lord.” & “Bowed.” to him (1 Samuel 24:8) (CCC 477)
No , no , no come out of that church , it's truly Satan''s church , Islam his religion wrong teachings , sexual immorality , come out and God will bless you
I was a Protestant then one day I asked Christ to reveal himself to me in the scriptures. Several times over the course of months I read one heart crushing thing in the scriptures after another proving the way I was taught was wrong. These scriptures coincided with Catholic doctrines. Some I had read many times in the past but they never stood out or I never completely understood until after I prayed that. I never expected that prayer to lead me to the Catholic Church. It wasn’t even in my mind, but Christ revealed Catholicism to me.
Thank you but you would be better preaching to your protestant friends. I'm sick and tired of their half truths and their arrogant air. We know the truth.
@@SHOJIPMTIU Oh, I'm sure they're perusing these comments looking for a shortsighted, out-of-context Bible verse to post. Welcome to the fold, WildHunt! I'm glad that you found your way home.
No , no , no come out of that church , it's truly Satan''s church , Islam his religion wrong teachings , sexual immorality , come out and God will bless you
Thank you Dr Bergma. Former baptised Catholic, former Baptist, now Catholic... The Virgin Mary, Mother of God-in-the flesh, Jesus Christ, and the Eucharist brought me back from a spiritually sterile environment to " The Church ", DEO GRATIA...
@@tonygomes6306 Mary did not die a virgin. Mary was not sinless. Mary had other children. Mary is not an intercessor. Mary is not a co-redeemer. You’re being taught lies. These violate Gods commands against not altering any part of His word. Think about this; what man is holy enough to alter what God has commanded? You’re being told those lies; they’re called traditions. The gate to heaven is narrow.
@@jeffgerst3619 Nothing like a Protest-ant who believes he is the expert on Catholic theology. - especially when he purposely ignores the Early Church Fathers (ECF)
@@VictoryOvrDepression I was raised Catholic, served as an alter boy and web to Catholic school. I speak from experience. Believing anything other than the fact Jesus is our savior and redeemer and intercessor is a lie. Mary’s as nor sinless the Bible is clear that all have sinned. If you aren’t born again you aren’t saved. I would think people would appreciate the fact I’m trying to show them from Gods word that they’re being told lies. You can’t go to heaven by being baptized, attending mass, taking communion or going to confession. Those are works and if they could save jesus wouldn’t have need to die for our sins. Roman’s 10:9-12 is very clear what’s required to be saved and the Catholic Church isn’t teaching it. You must believe solely in Jesus not Mary or Saints. Purgatory doesn’t exist. Mary was t sinless and she wasn’t a perpetual virgin. Now you know the truth so it’s on you to find out who’s lying. Traditions replace Gods word and revelation 22 has a very serious warning for those who do that. Considering these teachings one has to ask what man thinks he’s qualified to change something God has commanded. I am qualified because I’m speaking what God has commissioned me to share
Fellow convert to Catholicism here. When I was growing up Protestant, I hardly ever heard any preaching from the whole book of Acts. I get it now-that’s all about the early Church, which was Catholic. I don’t think any pastors were intentionally omitting it; they just didn’t vibe with it.
No , no , no come out of that church , it's truly Satan''s church , Islam his religion wrong teachings , sexual immorality , come out and God will bless you
Reading of the New Testament will reveal that the Catholic Church does not have its origin in the teachings of Jesus or His apostles. In the New Testament, there is no mention of the papacy, worship/adoration of Mary (or the immaculate conception of Mary, the perpetual virginity of Mary, the assumption of Mary, or Mary as co-redemptrix and mediatrix), petitioning saints in heaven for their prayers, apostolic succession, the ordinances of the church functioning as sacraments, infant baptism, confession of sin to a priest, purgatory, indulgences, or the equal authority of church tradition and Scripture. We are not saved by sacraments; we are saved by faith. As one can see the origin of the Catholic Church is not in the teachings of Jesus and His apostles.
@@sammygomes7381 Every Church father and every Christian for 1500 years disagrees with you. Jesus created a Church. You refuse to be in it because of your pride.
@@lukejohnson1274 Who is every church father and are you speaking of the Christian church or Catholic church. Christians don't disagree with the statements, but I can understand where Catholics might. Jesus did create a church as stated above it does not include any mention of the papacy, worship/adoration of Mary (or the immaculate conception of Mary, the perpetual virginity of Mary, the assumption of Mary, or Mary as co-redemptrix and mediatrix), petitioning saints in heaven for their prayers, apostolic succession, the ordinances of the church functioning as sacraments, infant baptism, confession of sin to a priest, purgatory, indulgences, or the equal authority of church tradition and Scripture. We are not saved by sacraments; we are saved by faith. As one can see the origin of the Catholic Church is not in the teachings of Jesus and His apostles. If you would like to be more specific of what church fathers or which statement is incorrect, I would be happy to explore it with you.
Brilliant! Thank you Dr. Bergsma. I will replay this video, study and commit these verses to memory, and prepare to share these arguments and talking points when I converse with my Protestant friends.
Also also when the crowd left Jesus after he told them unless you eat my flesh and drink my blood he asked the apostles how about you Jesus never changed his stance on this issue he would rather be abandoned by all than change the truth his body and blood
On the Eucharist in John 6, the part that was convincing to me was when people walked out. Jesus didn’t stop them and tell them he was just being figurative. He actually doubles down.
What about for those who stayed he says “You have the words of eternal life?” Not the flesh and blood. It seems, he who consumes Jesus, THE WORD of God should receive eternal life. The bread is a representation of the body, THE WORD becomes flesh. If we consume the flesh we are consuming his WORD. Therefore it is his WORD who saves us. Therefore to show up for mass and eat bread and drink wine does nothing, but to come together in communion or fellowship, remembering the historical moment and consuming the word of God together, you will have eternal salvation.
@@rickydavis7391 The amount of backbreaking exegesis in this comment is painful to read. You got all of that from “You have the words of eternal life”? Seriously? Praying for you.
@@HellenicPapist i got all that from the scriptures. Not just that singular scripture. I pray that you read the word like it is what sustains you eternally.
Repent! The eternal destination of your soul depends upon it! God has sent a great delusion upon you! The RCC has changed the 10 commandments+ read Deuteronomy 5 am the. Read the 10 RC commandments in the RC catechism.
So helpful! Thank you. (As a new Catholic- former Lutheran - I feel ok about my biblical knowledge after listening to the Bible in a Year twice, but I know it's a never-ending well of inspiration and knowledge!)
Wow, it's like I've written this comment! (Also raised in a Lutheran tradition - although in my part, the theology wasn't really focused on - and have been listening Bible in a Year for two years now, although this year is the only time where I have consistently listened every day, reading along most of the time - sometimes thrown off in that I read in one language while Fr. Mike is of course reading in English, and my Bible is mostly geared towards Lutherans, so the Deuterocanonical books and chapters are in their own section, rather than being a part of the main text, very confusing for those verses in Daniel).
Probably the biggest difference I notice in the transition from Protestant to Catholic is the shedding of Pride. This expositor embodies this principle perfectly.
Deuteronomy Ch 5 v 8 8 “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. 9 You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, 10 but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.
@@berean1703Worship the Lord, Jesus Christ. Pray is to ask. Those in heaven are “like the angels,” and are more alive than we are, since the Lord is “not God of the dead, but of the living” (Luke 20:36-38)
@@mussman717word You don't care about the truth and you loyalties lie in the wrong place. Otherwise, you wouldn't be telling me to keep quiet! What are you afraid of? Are you afraid to examine and test your indoctrination? Paul said in 2 Corinthians 13 v5 Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?-unless indeed you are disqualified.
Idolatry and satanism have been dwelling within the catholic church since centuries ago. If anything is a man-made tradition, it's the system in catholicism. The Papacy itself is idolatry. Because Jesus said, "And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven". Yet you call catholic priests "Father" and you call the Pope "Holy Father". What's more ironic is the Popes were/are initiated members of the Freemasonry a.k.a satanism. The Freemasons built the obelisk standing in front of the Vatican church as a blatant symbol of Lucifer's 🍆. The Popes perform Lucifer's symbols frequently yet almost no one pays attention. And people wonder why the Vatican helped the Nazis during WWII. Because those Popes, Hitler and Stalin were in the same religion, the Freemasonry/satanism. Idolatry and satanism sitting at the heart of catholicism.
Jesus was crucified in AD 30/31, and the apostles didn't receive the outpouring of the Holy Spirit until the day of Pentecost, after Jesus had ascended to heaven. The Catholic Church did not exist then, so you cannot say that the Holy Spirit dwelt in the Catholic Church. At that time it was the Apostolic Church, the church of the Apostles. The Apostles were true Christians because they were eye witnesses of Jesus and His teachings. True Christians today are those who study God's word and are led by God's Spirit into real truth, not the supposed truth of the Catechism. It is true that God's truth cannot be overthrown, but it is not in the Catholic Church. If you want to know which teachings of the Catholic Church are false, I can tell you. Even the church fathers cannot be trusted if their beliefs do not square with the Bible.
RELICS / Healing through touching an item: The woman bleeder healed by ONLY touching His garment: Matthew 9: 20 - 22 Luke 8: 40 - 44 KJV 9: 20 - 22 Matt 14 Mark 5: 24- 34 Douay-Rheims 1899
Thank you Sir. An amazing presentation especially for me a revert trying to convert my fellow protestants to The ONE, HOLY, APOSTOLIC CHURCH. May God be praised, known and loved ❤❤❤
Quote the bible (book, chapter and verse) and debunk these: (NO sarcasm please) FACTS: Christ NEVER taught that Peter is a pope. Christ NEVER taught that Mary will go to heaven. Christ NEVER taught that Mary is a mediator/intercessor. Christ NEVER taught that Mary never sinned. Christ NEVER taught that Mary remained virgin. Christ NEVER Taught that a mere man is head of His church. Christ NEVER taught about a church named Catholic. Christ NEVER taught that we can pray to the dead. Christ NEVER taught that the dead can hear our prayers. Christ NEVER taught that anyone can change the day of worship. Christ NEVER taught to confess to a "priest" Christ NEVER Taught a priest can forgive your sins. Christ NEVER taught salvation is through a church. Christ NEVER taught to pray to, or with beads!!! Christ NEVER started a church named Catholic!!! >>>> Question where can I find in scripture? Indulgences? Penance? Black Pope? The Church's records tell us there were potentially three Black popes in Catholic history: Pope Victor I, who headed the church from 189-199, Pope Miltiades (311-314), and Pope Gelasius I, who was pope from 492-496 Confession booth? Purgatory? Baby baptism? December 25th Easter? Monstrance? Unmarried priest? Priest drinking wine ? Wizard hat? Mitre Kissing of statues? Burning incense to statues? Sprinkle “ so called Holy Water “ on statues and people? The use of Coptic shell decoration on baby baptism bowl? Praying to the dead? Please attach scripture of any Hebrew keeping SUNDAY as a holy day? You think this is fun right you think I have nothing better to do with my life???? You think Satan cares about you? I know he hates me…. He can use his servants as vipers Christ has given the solution….HIS WORD !
I always pray that I become a successful Catholic Social Media Influencer to spread the teachings and Revelations of the Catholic Church and the entire Christendom. I hope and pray the Devotion to the Eucharist and the Holy Souls in Purgatory helps me. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us Chaste Heart of St. Joseph, pray for us All Saints and Angels, pray for us
@@jdub3999 And so is just having a relationship with the Father easy and not filled with half truths and lies of some church doctrine that is blinding it's followers.
It's not a particular verse, but when people claim that Scripture is the sole authority I point out the council of Jerusalem in the book of Acts and point out that it's a clear example of the authority of the church that is talked about in scripture and not possessed by scripture.
Completely illogical argument as it simply proves that Scripture is sufficient to govern the church. Nowhere does it say that authority moved to Rome! By your reading the Church was governed from Jerusalem not Rome.
@@peterchapman6282and guess where Peter went and died.... ROME! And guess who succeeded him in Rome as the new Peter... LINUS THE FIRST! Guess which church the others were to be in communion with.... ROME! St. Ignatius of Antioch and St. Irenaus of Lyon. Both in the 1st and 2nd centuries!
May our God continue to fill you with more wisdom and truth to bring God's Kingdom to everyone.Your videos are strengthening our catholic Faith and opening the minds to see the true church.Praise the Lord.Amen.
A tremendous resource for me. My husband and I begin RCIA this August but until then, I count St. Paul Center as an intrinsic blessing in clarifying and understanding the Word and Will of God. These 7 verses are provocative and confrontational in the best way. Thank you and thank God for You!
No , no , no come out of that church , it's truly Satan''s church , Islam his religion wrong teachings , sexual immorality , come out and God will bless you
@@StPaulCenter Hi! As someone from a Soviet culture (now an immigrant in the USA) I believe that the resurrection was staged by the Romans, as explained in a popular book where I'm from - "The Gospel of Afranius"; like many others, I read it in childhood and never thought about this question again - until coming to the USA and noticing a stark contrast in the discussion of this question. What's wrong with that explanation? Also, I believe matter is eternal - it can only move and change but not appear from nowhere - seems like common sense to me, but apparently not here in the US, what's wrong with that?
Quote the bible (book, chapter and verse) and debunk these: (NO sarcasm please) FACTS: Christ NEVER taught that Peter is a pope. Christ NEVER taught that Mary will go to heaven. Christ NEVER taught that Mary is a mediator/intercessor. Christ NEVER taught that Mary never sinned. Christ NEVER taught that Mary remained virgin. Christ NEVER Taught that a mere man is head of His church. Christ NEVER taught about a church named Catholic. Christ NEVER taught that we can pray to the dead. Christ NEVER taught that the dead can hear our prayers. Christ NEVER taught that anyone can change the day of worship. Christ NEVER taught to confess to a "priest" Christ NEVER Taught a priest can forgive your sins. Christ NEVER taught salvation is through a church. Christ NEVER taught to pray to, or with beads!!! Christ NEVER started a church named Catholic!!! >>>> Question where can I find in scripture? Indulgences? Penance? Black Pope? The Church's records tell us there were potentially three Black popes in Catholic history: Pope Victor I, who headed the church from 189-199, Pope Miltiades (311-314), and Pope Gelasius I, who was pope from 492-496 Confession booth? Purgatory? Baby baptism? December 25th Easter? Monstrance? Unmarried priest? Priest drinking wine ? Wizard hat? Mitre Kissing of statues? Burning incense to statues? Sprinkle “ so called Holy Water “ on statues and people? The use of Coptic shell decoration on baby baptism bowl? Praying to the dead? Please attach scripture of any Hebrew keeping SUNDAY as a holy day? You think this is fun right you think I have nothing better to do with my life???? You think Satan cares about you? I know he hates me…. He can use his servants as vipers Christ has given the solution….HIS WORD ! This is not personal. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> CHRISTIAN The Greek word Χριστιανός (Christianos), meaning "follower of Christ", comes from Χριστός (Christos), meaning "anointed one", FOLLOWERS of the TEACHINGS of Christ!!! Written 2000 years ago! NOT my interpretation!!! >>>
Quote the bible (book, chapter and verse) and debunk these: (NO sarcasm please) FACTS: Christ NEVER taught that Peter is a pope. Christ NEVER taught that Mary will go to heaven. Christ NEVER taught that Mary is a mediator/intercessor. Christ NEVER taught that Mary never sinned. Christ NEVER taught that Mary remained virgin. Christ NEVER Taught that a mere man is head of His church. Christ NEVER taught about a church named Catholic. Christ NEVER taught that we can pray to the dead. Christ NEVER taught that the dead can hear our prayers. Christ NEVER taught that anyone can change the day of worship. Christ NEVER taught to confess to a "priest" Christ NEVER Taught a priest can forgive your sins. Christ NEVER taught salvation is through a church. Christ NEVER taught to pray to, or with beads!!! Christ NEVER started a church named Catholic!!! >>>> Question where can I find in scripture? Indulgences? Penance? Black Pope? The Church's records tell us there were potentially three Black popes in Catholic history: Pope Victor I, who headed the church from 189-199, Pope Miltiades (311-314), and Pope Gelasius I, who was pope from 492-496 Confession booth? Purgatory? Baby baptism? December 25th Easter? Monstrance? Unmarried priest? Priest drinking wine ? Wizard hat? Mitre Kissing of statues? Burning incense to statues? Sprinkle “ so called Holy Water “ on statues and people? The use of Coptic shell decoration on baby baptism bowl? Praying to the dead? Please attach scripture of any Hebrew keeping SUNDAY as a holy day? You think this is fun right you think I have nothing better to do with my life???? You think Satan cares about you? I know he hates me…. He can use his servants as vipers Christ has given the solution….HIS WORD ! This is not personal. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> CHRISTIAN The Greek word Χριστιανός (Christianos), meaning "follower of Christ", comes from Χριστός (Christos), meaning "anointed one", FOLLOWERS of the TEACHINGS of Christ!!! Written 2000 years ago! NOT my interpretation!!!
Thought I’d listen to just “some” teaching while I was doing some chores. I’m glad I came across this video. Thank you for explaning and strengthening my Catholic faith.
Hahaha I was doing the dishes and cleaning and listening to this. Now the dishes aren't done. Back to loading the dishwasher and refilling the sink with hot water. God bless!
O Lord Jesus Christ, open the eyes of my heart that I may hear your word, and understand and do your will, for I am a sojourner upon the earth. Hide not your commandments from me, but open my eyes, that I may perceive the wonders of your Law. Speak unto me the hidden and secret things of your wisdom. On you do I set my hope, O my God, that you shall enlighten my mind and understanding with the light of your knowledge; not only to cherish those things which are written, but to do them; That in reading of the lives and sayings of the Saints I may not sin, but that such may serve for my restoration, enlightenment and sanctification, for the salvation of my soul, and the inheritance of life everlasting. For you are the enlightenment of those who lie in darkness, and from you comes every good deed and every gift. Amen. _Prayer of St John Chrysostom_ (To pray before reading the Bible).
God bless Dr. John Bergsma. I wish critics of Catholicism were all as candid as he is. What a wonderful mind! And he tells it all with such a sense of humor... It's impossible not to like and respect him.
Dr. Bergsma came to our church to speak couple years ago and i was so impressed with his teaching style and humor that i bought and read, twice now, his book on the Dead Sea scrolls and connection of findings to the gospel and many other points that were so wonderfully apparent. Would love to see more of these types of videos from him. Such a great way to reinforce and learn the bible, our Tradition and history.
John Bergsma : "You are your own arbiter of the truth" Protestant : "That is the principle of the protestantism" Former protestant here. I also realized that I was arbiter of the truth. From 🇨🇵
The concept of" protest ant" is to protest false beliefs and the roman Catholic church , Orthodox, and most denominations have false beliefs. Scripture is what we are to look to for truth concerning our beliefs .
@Lya3588. Me, too! You, too! Him, too! Everybody, too! Every individual is his or her own arbiter of truth…and cannot rightly escape being so. It is part of the human condition. You and you alone have control of your will. So, in terms of your actions and beliefs, only you have control. You can decide to trust the Catholics…or the Methodists…or the Three-Seed-in-the-Spirit Fire-Baptized Pentecostals, but in the end it is you and only you who decides. It’s like disparaging a world-class historian, who-having confidence in his own judgment concerning the data-writes a narrative not entirely in keeping with the received consensus. Oh, no! Not that! Don’t be your own arbiter, Mr. Historian, sir. Write what has always been written! Then, nobody will call you arrogant! There’s nothing wrong with using your own mind…unless, of course, you’re trapped in a cult of some sort. There’s nothing “humble” about giving your thinking over to somebody else. It’s really nothing but pure foolishness.
@@brucewmclaughlin9072 Catholics will tell you to look at the early church to understand how to practice and interpret. They say this when people rely on the scripture. What’s interesting about that, the scripture IS the earliest evidence of how the church believed and practiced. What they really mean to say is after the divine writings they added things that they thought were just as important, but which occurred later. They also focused on “unity” which meant excommunicate anybody who disagrees with the people in the church with power.
@davido3026 HAHAHA... For me, the more I read the Bible the more Protestant I become - the more I realize Catholic teachings and traditions are in contradiction to the Bible! 😄😄😄... SERIOUSLY! For example, Jesus is repeatedly sacrificed in every Catholic Mass when in the Bible it states that He only sacrificed Himself ONCE for all sins - look it up in the book of Hebrews!
@@dantran1089 It's important, when having a real discussion, to not give straw man arguments to prove one's point. Catholics do not, in fact, believe that Jesus is repeatedly sacrificed at each Mass. This is a commonly repeated misconception and one that is easily refuted if one does their research. Catholics believe in ONE sacrifice. We also understand that God works outside of time and space and therefore, we are present at the actual sacrifice of Jesus. We are sharing in this ONE sacrifice. Every single "contradiction" that is seen by our Protestant brothers and sisters doesn't exist. Some easy research at Catholic Answers will give you the actual Catholic belief. When having an honest dialogue, it is very important to present your opponent's position correctly othewise you risk breaking the Commandment of bearing false witness.
@@tennille143 REALLY?! Not even one contradiction exists?! I see many but for the sake of time I just want to mention two below: 1) Is kneeling/bowling and praying before the statues of Mary or having parades venerating and praising the statues of Mary in contradiction to Scriptures at all? 2) Is blessing of same-sex couples in contradiction to the scriptures at all? I am holding my breath for your response.
Mary is also the Queen of Heaven because her Son is the King of Heaven. Like every other Jewish King, his mother is the Queen Monarch ruling (and interceding) alongside him.
Dr. John, this is great! I teach CCD and I have approached teaching apologetics in much the same way you are doing here. Really appreciate your efforts helping us to better understand the Sacred Scriptures. 😀
Start listening to Dr. Scott Hahn, Fr. Ripperger, Fr. Bill Casey, and Tim Staples just to get a start and your eyes will be open. We still love you protestants but you have a lot to learn from us. God bless you.
Thank you Dr. Bergsma. May God bless you more with evangelization like this. I definitely am getting more confident now and really growing in my catholic faith. Please give us more. We need more like this clear and easy to understand and biblically supported explanations.
Thank you for these teachings, even if I am a cradle Catholic I have not known these teachings before. You have opened and enlightened our minds on our beautiful and rich faith the Roman Catholic Church.
Thank you dr Bergsma. I red your short book Stunned by Scripture. Wonderful There is only one Church ,not 48,000 denominations . Christ did not have time to found 48,000. One true church !!!!!
Thank you for this video. These are definitely uncommon verses. Truly, honesty, personal integrity got you into the true Church of God. I hope John MacArthur is watching. Praise the Lord Almighty!
Living down South in a hot-bed of Evangelical, Pentecostal Protestantism, the response I have gotten to these responses to these verses has been, "Nope, you're wrong" and then they just go on with reading the Bible if during a Bible study or just switch the topic of conversation.
@@sammygomes7381 I don't know what you mean by that, but yes, I have lived among all kinds of Protestants for 54 years, and this topic is one where many react the same as those who walked away from Jesus. I grant it is a hard thing, for as St. Thomas Aquinas said, faith alone understands and believes though the senses are deceived.
It's interesting that in the Danish translation of 1. Timothy 3.15, the word rendered as "bulwark" in English is translated to "grundvold" in Danish, which means a solid, often stone foundation of a building. In other words, truth rest upon the Church.
As long as one understands that is Christ's church, not the Catholic church. Eph 2:20 tells us the foundation is built on ALL the apostles and prophets, with Christ the cornerstone, so the church is not built on Peter.
16:47 this verse was being preached by an Evangelical pastor when it hit me what it was actually saying…I became Catholic within a year after intense prayer and study! Praise Jesus!
Quote the bible (book, chapter and verse) and debunk these: (NO sarcasm please) FACTS: Christ NEVER taught that Peter is a pope. Christ NEVER taught that Mary will go to heaven. Christ NEVER taught that Mary is a mediator/intercessor. Christ NEVER taught that Mary never sinned. Christ NEVER taught that Mary remained virgin. Christ NEVER Taught that a mere man is head of His church. Christ NEVER taught about a church named Catholic. Christ NEVER taught that we can pray to the dead. Christ NEVER taught that the dead can hear our prayers. Christ NEVER taught that anyone can change the day of worship. Christ NEVER taught to confess to a "priest" Christ NEVER Taught a priest can forgive your sins. Christ NEVER taught salvation is through a church. Christ NEVER taught to pray to, or with beads!!! Christ NEVER started a church named Catholic!!! >>>> Question where can I find in scripture? Indulgences? Penance? Black Pope? The Church's records tell us there were potentially three Black popes in Catholic history: Pope Victor I, who headed the church from 189-199, Pope Miltiades (311-314), and Pope Gelasius I, who was pope from 492-496 Confession booth? Purgatory? Baby baptism? December 25th Easter? Monstrance? Unmarried priest? Priest drinking wine ? Wizard hat? Mitre Kissing of statues? Burning incense to statues? Sprinkle “ so called Holy Water “ on statues and people? The use of Coptic shell decoration on baby baptism bowl? Praying to the dead? Please attach scripture of any Hebrew keeping SUNDAY as a holy day? You think this is fun right you think I have nothing better to do with my life???? You think Satan cares about you? I know he hates me…. He can use his servants as vipers Christ has given the solution….HIS WORD ! This is not personal. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> CHRISTIAN The Greek word Χριστιανός (Christianos), meaning "follower of Christ", comes from Χριστός (Christos), meaning "anointed one", FOLLOWERS of the TEACHINGS of Christ!!! Written 2000 years ago! NOT my interpretation!!! >>>
I started with 0 biblical knowledge beyond the pop culture basics and spent a lot of time watching the top protestant and Catholic apologists debate the bible and it was clear at least to me that the Catholics had a far deeper, more historical and full understanding of it and all that went into it.
This is super! I just finished a live-stream conference from St.Paul Center with Doctors J. Bergsma & S. Hann (and a few more great speakers.) watching from Mexico. 200+ priests were there; I attended as a female layperson. 😊 I can’t wait to pass this video on to others. God Bless All at St.Pauls. ❤
CHRISTIAN The Greek word Χριστιανός (Christianos), meaning "follower of Christ", comes from Χριστός (Christos), meaning "anointed one", FOLLOWERS of the TEACHINGS of Christ!!! Written 2000 years ago! NOT my interpretation!!! >>> A Christian (/ˈkrɪstʃən, -tiən/) is a person who follows or adheres to Christianity, a monotheistic Abrahamic religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
Excellent as always, Dr Bergsma! I’m so thankful for your videos and recordings of your presentations. I can’t even begin to tell you how much I’ve learned and how many times my jaw has dropped with the lightbulb exploding over my head. Many prayers!
We CATHOLICs believe by faith what you said for 2,000 years We received the truth from The Apostles until now, by the oppositors have confused even the TRUE doctrine of Christ.
How about Malachi 1: 10-12: For from the Rising of the sun to its setting, my Name is great among nations, and in every place incense(only Catholics and Orthodox do it) is offered to my name, and a PURE OFFERING(the EUCHARIST) for my name is great among nations, says the Lord of Host.
Great comment about the source & summit of Christianity which Protestantism lacks which is why they have to believe in symbolic Eucharist, at least they are honest about that doctrine. Because of the lack of His Real True Presence, Satanists don’t steal their wafers for desecration at sacrilegious black masses for which validly consecrated Catholic or Orthodox hosts are stolen. Neither are there Protestant Eucharistic miracles, which, by definition, can’t happen!
Dr. Bergsma, there is an aspect of St Paul's writing to Timothy regarding the "pillar & bulwark" being The Church which never gets mentioned that I would like to get your take on. That is WHEN did he write this??? Obviously we can say that all Paul's epistles were written before 67 or 68AD. Most likely between the mid 50's to early 60's. That is in the range of just thirty years after the death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus. St John doesn't put anything to paper until sometime after 90 AD. So before many of the books of the NT are even written Paul is telling Christians that The Church is the pillar and bulwark of truth. Proving that The Bible comes out of The Church, NOT that The Church comes out of the Bible. Would greatly appreciate your thoughts and thank you for all of the tremendous work you are doing to educate Catholics like myself.
Sorry what nonsense, the Bible didn’t come out of the Church it was inspired by the Holy Spirit and given to men primarily to the Apostles. It was a supernatural act of God, not composed by a cosy committee. The Church was not the author of any Scripture, it was the recipient.
@@peterchapman6282 And some entity had to safeguard those writings, they weren’t just cast to the four corners of the earth. And also remember this was a time when most people were illiterate and everything had to be written by hand. Of course the church came first.
Great information sur 🙌🏽🙏🏽!! In addition : The fact that those traditions were kept for 1400 years until the Reformation is enough confirmation for me !!
Hi hope you are well. The Jewish title is,”gebirâ” In 1 Kings 2:20, Solomon said to his Mother Bathsheba, seated on a throne at his right, "Make your request, Mother, for I will not refuse you". The position of the queen mother (gebirâ) was a privilege of the highest honour, and was the highest authority for a woman in Israel or Judah…God bless you and your family.
Loved this presentation!!!!! In my 40's I came to faith in God...walking a 20 year journey into the Catholic Church. In "meeting God" one Sunday morning, I began regular reading of the Bible. In my early Protestant years, I didn't know about the details of the divide - Catholic/Protestant. I just read the Bible. Eventually, hearing the "Faith v. Works" criticism of Catholics. I was caught off guard. I just dismissed the Protestant claims that our "works" didn't matter, that they didn't relate to our salvation. My thoughts...how could anyone steeped in NT scripture think that works were irrelevant??? We Catholics (yes, I am now Catholic) need to memorize these scriptures and imbibe your teaching to be able to explain the import of the scriptures to Protestants. So much more to say...but this is enough. :) Thank you for this teaching!
Whatever "protestant church" you were in that claimed "works" doesn't matter is wrong. This is called the OSAS(Once Saved Always Saved) theology, and it's a minority teaching. It's as much a heresy as anything else. Plenty of "protestant" churches teach the opposite of this. Faith without works is dead! All true Christians know this.
Dr. Bergsma, thankyou so very much for you videos. The are a great way to learn and deepen my faith. I am a convert since 1991. Still learning. Between you and Dr Hahn my faith is growing more knowledgeable. GK Chesterton was my first teacher. Please keep em coming.
@@paulericn.mouafo6610 Nice of you to accept adding to the scriptures by using the word Catholic ! The church is the body of Christ made up of believers in Christ, it is not an institution or a denomination . Jesus called His church " My Church " Matthew 16:18 and St. Ignatius used the term Catholic to describe the church . The church which is the body of Christ will never be destroyed .
@@davido3026 interesting the Catholic Church claims they were the first church yet the Bible is clear there were many churches hundreds of years before the Catholic Church was founded. The epistles weee all written to church’s. Of course this is just one deception the Catholic Church teaches. Mary is not an intercessor Jesus is. Mary wasn’t sinless only Jesus was. Jesus openly spoke against traditions. The Bible is clear that anyone who adds to or removes from Gods word their names will be blotted out of the book of life who is man that he can alter what God has commanded? Thats exactly what the Catholic Church is doing. I’d step my urge you to read the new testament and compare it to your Catholic doctrines.
@@jeffgerst3619: When you consider that the Latin word 'ecclesia' originally means a group of people, then you are correct. The Scriptures refer to several groups of people. But. All of those people were Catholics, and there was one Catholic Church.
As a 64 year old Cradle Catholic I had never heard of the concept of "Translational Bias" in the Bible until about ten years ago. Two members of The Coming Home Network staff were talking about it very casually and in a "matter of fact" type basis, as if it is no big deal and everybody knows it. I was outraged and couldn't believe that, for example Luke 1:26-28 they intentionally did not interrupt "full of grace" but instead switched it to "highly favored". But when Dr Bergsma discusses how they interrupt "Tradition" in such a deliberate and duplicitous manner he ought to do a video just on the topic of Translational Bias because he probably has other such cases.
100. It’s done to different degrees. Read a Bible from the JW’s who deny the Trinity and that Jesus IS God. All kinds of biased translations to fit their personal views
@@davidwireback8621 perhaps this will help I think you’re reasoning there is faulty from My view regarding the Annunciation: “In Luke 1:28, the word that the angel uses is kecharitomene. So it’s not literally “full of grace,” but its root word is the Greek verb “to give grace” (charitoo). The word is the past perfect tense, meaning that the action of giving grace has already occurred. It was not something that was about to happen to her but something that has already been accomplished. The word was also used as a title. The angel did not say, “Hail Mary, you are kecharitomene” but rather, “Hail kecharitomene.” Therefore the word is not simply an action but an identity.” - Catholic Answers
Awesome as usual Doctor Bergsma! I’m a COVID Catholic convert from the Sola Scriptura evangelical tradition and you and your book, “Stunned by Scripture,” helped me on my way. Your deep insight and dry sense of humor could only have come from… (pregnant pause) God. Agreed that many Catholics, although surrounded by Scripture, are biblically illiterate. I find that some don’t even believe the Bible, preferring instead a historical-critical and ultimately eisegetical approach. Worse yet, I find many Catholics, from layman to priest, oppose the simple, biblical repent-believe-be baptized presentation of the Gospel (the kerygma) as being too direct and, I assume, unsophisticated. I’ve contacted many well-known Catholic figures, including converts and reverts, about this problem, but usually get no response (Bishop Barron is the one exception). You are Vice President of Mission at the Saint Paul Center for Biblical Theology (twelve-word-long title, very biblical!), do you (plural) train your students how to present the Gospel to the unsaved? If so, how? If not, why not? Please let me know. God bless!
Well, first, remember that those people who are "well-known" Catholics get hundreds and thousands of emails expecting responses, so I wouldn't judge them to harshly for not responding to you about your pet important topic. Second, while I'm not sure what you mean about people "opposing" your simple presentation of the Gospel, remember that there is a whole process to becoming Catholic that is there for a reason. Third, maybe what you're looking for is what St. Paul Street Evangelization does.
I am a cradle Catholic and have always been passionate about my faith and no protestant could have never shift me that's the reason l am going all the way in my theological degree thank you Doctor for the encouragement God’s bless. 🙏
This is such a remarkable video. And that I would decide to watch today, when we just started the Bread of Life discourses during cycle B of the lectionary at Mass this morning. Wow! ❤ So good.