Why Protestant Doctrine Is Unbiblical

Summary

In a radio conversation, Andre, a conservative Evangelical, discusses his concerns about Catholicism's man-made doctrines with Tim Staples, a former Assembly of God youth pastor. Andre questions the biblical basis for Catholic teachings compared to his Protestant beliefs. Staples counters by asserting that nondenominational Protestantism lacks biblical foundation, citing biblical verses that contradict the doctrine of 'justification by faith alone.' He emphasizes the Church's role as Jesus' authority, referencing Matthew 18:15-18 and Acts 15, to argue that Catholicism aligns more closely with the Bible's teachings.

Takeaways

• 🤔 Andre, a conservative Evangelical, calls in to discuss his concerns about Catholicism's biblical basis compared to his current beliefs.
• 📚 Andre appreciates the Catholic Church's stances on issues like abortion and family but sees a disconnect with what he finds in the Bible.
• 🔍 The caller, a former Assembly of God youth pastor, and the respondent, raised Evangelical and later Pentecostal, discuss the biblical justification for Catholic doctrines.
• ❌ The respondent argues that nondenominational Protestantism lacks biblical foundation, pointing out that justification by faith alone was not taught by Christians for 1,500 years.
• 📖 The conversation highlights biblical verses such as James 2:24, Matthew 12:36-37, and Romans 2:6-7 to counter the idea of salvation by faith alone.
• 🤝 The respondent emphasizes that Jesus established the Church as His authority, as seen in Matthew 18:15-18, to resolve disputes and maintain teachings.
• 🏛️ The script references Acts 15, where the early Church held a council to address and settle a heresy, demonstrating the Church's role in interpreting and declaring doctrine.
• 📚 The respondent asserts that Catholicism is the original Church founded by Jesus in 33 AD, as confirmed by historical sources like the Encyclopedia Britannica.
• 🚫 The discussion points out that some Protestant reformers, like Martin Luther and John Calvin, introduced doctrines that contradicted biblical teachings.
• 🔄 The conversation suggests that while some Protestant sects have moved away from justification by faith alone, many still hold to this unbiblical doctrine.

Q & A

What is Andre's religious background mentioned in the script?

Andre is described as a conservative Evangelical and a non-denominational Christian, having been influenced by Catholic training during his high school and college years.

What is the main concern Andre expresses regarding Catholicism?

Andre's concern is the disconnect he perceives between Church-made doctrines and what he finds in the Bible, suggesting that Catholicism includes many man-made doctrines that depart from Scripture.

What is the biblical basis for the doctrine of 'justification by faith alone' as discussed in the script?

The doctrine of 'justification by faith alone' is critiqued as having no foundation in Sacred Scripture. The script references James 2:24 and other biblical passages to argue that faith alone is not sufficient for justification, and that good works are also necessary.

How does the script suggest that the Catholic Church views its authority in relation to the Bible?

The script implies that the Catholic Church sees itself as the authority established by Jesus, not just the Bible. It points to Matthew 18:15-18 and Acts 15 as evidence of the Church's role in interpreting and applying Scripture.

What historical figure's doctrine is critiqued in the script as being unbiblical?

The script critiques Martin Luther's doctrine of 'justification by faith alone' as being unbiblical and contrary to the teachings of the early Christian Church.

What does the script suggest about the origins of Protestantism?

The script suggests that Protestantism, particularly nondenominational Protestantism, has no foundation in Sacred Scripture and originated from Martin Luther's teachings, which are portrayed as contradicting the Bible.

What does the script argue about the role of the Church in Christian belief?

The script argues that the Church, as established by Jesus, is the authority that speaks for Him, and that it is more important than individual Bible interpretation, as seen in the way the early Church handled disputes.

What biblical passage does the script use to argue against the idea of 'justification by faith alone'?

The script uses James 2:24, which states, 'You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone,' to argue against the idea of 'justification by faith alone.'

How does the script characterize the relationship between faith and works in Christian salvation?

The script characterizes the relationship as one where faith is essential but not sufficient on its own for salvation; good works are also necessary, as supported by various biblical passages.

What does the script suggest about the historical continuity of the Catholic Church?

The script suggests that the Catholic Church has a historical continuity dating back to 33 AD, established by Jesus, and that it functioned as the authoritative interpreter of Scripture for 1,500 years before the Reformation.

Outlines

00:00

🔊 Radio Discussion on Catholicism vs. Evangelical Beliefs

The first paragraph introduces a radio conversation between Andre, a conservative Evangelical, and Tim Staples, a former Assembly of God youth pastor who converted to Catholicism. Andre expresses his appreciation for the Catholic Church's stance on issues like abortion and family but questions the biblical basis for Catholic doctrines, feeling a disconnect between Church-made doctrine and the Bible. Tim acknowledges Andre's respect and begins to address his concerns by asserting that nondenominational Protestantism lacks biblical foundation, citing Martin Luther's doctrine of justification by faith alone as unbiblical and historically unprecedented. Tim points to biblical verses that emphasize the importance of works alongside faith, suggesting that the Catholic Church's teachings are more aligned with the Bible than commonly perceived by Protestants.

05:03

📚 Biblical Authority and the Role of the Church

In the second paragraph, Tim continues to elaborate on the authority of the Catholic Church by contrasting it with the Protestant emphasis on the Bible alone. He argues that Jesus established the Church as the authoritative body to interpret and teach His teachings, citing Matthew 18:15-18 as evidence. Tim suggests that the Bible does not replace the Church's role but rather complements it. He also refers to the historical practice of Church councils, such as the one described in Acts 15, where the early Church gathered to resolve doctrinal disputes. Tim concludes by emphasizing the historical continuity and authority of the Catholic Church, which he claims has been the true interpreter of Scripture for 1,500 years before the Reformation introduced doctrines that deviated from the biblical teachings.

Keywords

💡Catholic Church

The Catholic Church is one of the largest Christian denominations, tracing its origins to the teachings of Jesus Christ and the apostles. In the video, the appreciation for the Catholic Church is expressed for its stance on various moral issues such as abortion and the sanctity of the family. The discussion highlights the Church's role in upholding traditional values and its long-standing influence on societal norms.

💡Evangelical

Evangelical refers to a diverse group of Protestant Christians who emphasize the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, the authority of the Bible, and the necessity of evangelism. In the script, Andre identifies as a conservative Evangelical, indicating his belief system that contrasts with Catholicism, particularly regarding the interpretation of Scripture and the role of Church tradition.

💡Biblical basis

The biblical basis refers to the reliance on the teachings and texts of the Bible as the foundation for religious beliefs and practices. Andre's concern is the perceived disconnect between the doctrines of Catholicism and what he finds in the Bible, suggesting a tension between Church-made doctrine and biblical teachings.

💡Church-made doctrine

Church-made doctrine in this context refers to the teachings and practices that have been established by the Catholic Church over time, which are not explicitly found in the Bible. The term is used to express skepticism about the authority and origins of certain Catholic teachings, as opposed to those that are directly derived from Scripture.

💡Justification by faith alone

Justification by faith alone is a central doctrine of Protestantism, particularly associated with Martin Luther, which asserts that individuals are made right with God through faith in Jesus Christ, without the need for good works. The video script challenges this doctrine, citing biblical verses that suggest a connection between faith, works, and salvation.

💡Sacred Scripture

Sacred Scripture, in Christian theology, refers to the Bible, which is considered divinely inspired and authoritative. The term is used in the script to emphasize the importance of biblical teachings in determining religious beliefs and to critique doctrines that are perceived as not having a basis in the Bible.

💡Assembly of God

The Assembly of God is a Pentecostal denomination within Protestant Christianity, known for its emphasis on the gifts of the Holy Spirit, such as speaking in tongues and divine healing. The script mentions Tim Staples' background as an Assembly of God youth pastor, highlighting his personal journey from a Pentecostal to a Catholic perspective.

💡Salvation

Salvation, in Christian belief, refers to the deliverance from sin and its consequences, typically through the grace of God and the redemption offered by Jesus Christ. The script discusses different views on how salvation is achieved, whether through faith alone or in conjunction with good works.

💡Works

In the context of the video, 'works' refers to the actions and deeds performed by individuals, which are discussed as a component of justification and salvation. The script cites biblical passages to argue that good works are essential for salvation, contrary to the doctrine of justification by faith alone.

💡Authority of the Church

The authority of the Church is the concept that the Catholic Church, as established by Jesus Christ, has the divine mandate to teach, govern, and sanctify its members. The script argues that Jesus intended the Church to be the authoritative interpreter of Scripture and the guardian of Christian doctrine.

💡Tradition

Tradition, in this context, refers to the beliefs, practices, and customs that are passed down within the Catholic Church, some of which are not explicitly found in the Bible. The term is used to discuss the relationship between Church tradition and Scripture, and the potential for tension between the two.

Highlights

Andre expresses appreciation for the Catholic Church's stance on issues like abortion and the family.

Andre identifies as a conservative Evangelical and discusses his journey from Catholicism to Protestantism.

The conversation addresses the disconnect between Church-made doctrine and the Bible in Catholicism.

Tim Staples, a former Assembly of God youth pastor, shares his conversion story to Catholicism.

Tim argues that nondenominational Protestantism has no foundation in Sacred Scripture.

The doctrine of justification by faith alone is critiqued as unbiblical and historically inaccurate.

Scriptural references are provided to counter the idea of justification by faith alone.

The importance of works in salvation is emphasized with references from Matthew and Romans.

The role of the Church as the authority established by Jesus is discussed.

The historical continuity of the Catholic Church since 33 AD is mentioned.

The Church's role in resolving doctrinal disputes, as seen in Acts 15, is highlighted.

The contrast between the Bible and the Church as sources of authority in Christianity is explored.

The influence of Martin Luther's teachings on the Protestant Reformation is critiqued.

The idea that the Bible alone is sufficient for Christian faith is challenged.

The conversation touches on the concept of sola scriptura and its implications for Protestantism.

The historical development of Protestantism and its divergence from early Christian teachings is discussed.

The importance of the Church's role in interpreting Scripture and maintaining doctrinal purity is emphasized.

Transcripts

We--now, be careful Andre--we go to Andre, who is traveling on highway 55

heading towards St. Louis. He's listening on 94.7 FM. Andre, drive carefully; you are

on with Tim Staples. Hey guys, thanks so much for taking the call, and let me

first begin by saying how much I appreciate the Catholic Church. I have

the benefit of about six years of Catholic training though high school and college

myself, and you guys stand for so many great positions, for example the ones

that you just mentioned: abortion, the family, and a lot of great things. I guess--

I appreciate that, Andre. I'm sorry? I appreciate that, thank you Andre. You bet.

Well, I am currently a conservative Evangelical, probably the best way you can

put me, and one of those motley non-denominationals, as you

described before. You got it. And--yep, and I guess my issue relates to the biblical

basis for Catholicism versus, I guess, my current belief system, and I see a

disconnect there. Right. Primarily, you know, as it relates to Church-made

doctrine versus what I can find in the Bible. And I just want to know,

you know, how is it that...you know, cause I understand, I think the

apologist online actually was...not a Pentecostal, but some sort of

Protestant. Yeah, I was Assembly of God. I was an Assembly of God youth pastor, in

fact, before I converted. Oh, okay then, well there you go, you're both, then.

And I was raised to Southern Baptist, so I was raised an Evangelical

and became a Pentecostal. Okay, well great, because I've got a motley

background myself, Lutheran and Pentecostal and all that; but,

you know, so my point is, obviously, you know, why should anyone who, I think, you

know, we're getting Biblical teaching right--and I'm a Chicago resident, you

know--go to or be persuaded by Catholicism that has, at least in my

personal views, so many man-made doctrines that it, again, in my view, departs

from what I can find in Scripture? Sure. Well, I'll tell you what, Andre, as one

who used to believe as you, I will tell you why I did. Number one: I find that

Protestantism that you just spoke of--like the nondenominational Protestantism--

itself has absolutely no foundation in Sacred Scripture. The idea, Andre--and as

a matter of history, this is where Protestantism came from: Martin Luther

taught a doctrine, justification by faith alone, that was never taught by a single

Christian for 1,500 years. In fact, it is, as explicitly as I can imagine,

contradicted by St. James in James 2:24. In fact, Andre, what I found is the only

place in the entire Bible where the words "faith alone" are found, the words

"not by" are right in front of them: "We see then that a man is justified by works

and not by faith alone." You have Matthew 12:36 and 37 where Jesus, speaking in the

context of the final judgement, says--in verse 37, I'll focus on--"by your words you

will be justified, by your words you will be condemned." Words are more than just

faith. That's something you say, something you do. In Romans 2:6 and

7, St. Paul says, "God will reward each man according to his works. To him who

continues in good works, his reward shall be glory, incorruption, and everlasting

life." There, St. Paul says everlasting life is a reward for good works. Now, is

faith involved? Absolutely, its insist-- it's constitutive of the salvific

act in the life of a believer; you have to be a believer to be sure. "We are

justified by faith," Romans 5:1 says, but the problem was, "faith ALONE" is nowhere

to be found. In Galatians 6:7, for example, St. Paul says, "Let no man be deceived:

God is not mocked. Whatsoever a man sows--" any farmer knows that's something you do,

sowing seeds-- "Whatsoever a man sows, that shall he reap. If he continues

to sow to the flesh, he shall of the flesh reap death; if he continues to sow

to the spirit, he shall of the Spirit reap everlasting life. Let us therefore

not grow weary in well-doing, for we shall reap the reward--" What reward? What

reward? Everlasting life, "--if we faint not." Or if, as one translation says, "if we do

not lose heart." My brother, I could go down a litany of more verses here, but

here's the bottom line: what I found is, Martin Luther's justification by faith,

which became what he called the doctrine upon which the Church rises or falls,

that's his most important doctrine, was absolutely un-Biblical, absolutely false,

and this colored the Reformation, and has for the last 500 years. Now there are

some Protestant sects who have moved away from justification by faith alone,

and get it closer to correct; but the overwhelming majority of reformers in

John Calvin, who--you know, that's a whole 'nother hour we could talk about

John Calvin--you know, got us even further off track from what the Bible clearly

teaches. So Andre, I look at that, and then I look at what Jesus

clearly taught in the Bible is that He didn't give us a Bible, He gave us a

Church. Jesus said, for example in Matthew 18:15-18, He says, and this is

instructions that are perennial till the end of time, Andre, He says, "If your

brother shall offend against thee, go tell him his fault between you and him

alone. If he hears you, you've gained your brother." If he won't hear you, what do you

do? You don't get your Bible out and start arguing; He says, "Take one or two

with you, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be

established. If he will not even hear them, tell it to the church; and the one

who fails to hear the church shall be as a heathen and a publican." In other words,

Jesus established the Church to be His authority to speak for Him; that's

exactly what we see happen in the book of Acts--in Acts chapter 15 Andre, I'll

give you homework--when there was a heresy that threatened to tear a

fledgling church apart there in Antioch in the first century, what did they do?

Paul and Barnabas came in, tried to settle it; They couldn't settle it. What did they do?

They had a council, the Church declared on the matter, and the matter was settled.

That's the way the Church functioned, and my friend, as a matter of history, the

Encyclopedia Britannica, for example, will tell you, if you go to its entry on the

Catholic Church, you will find it's the Church started by Jesus in 33 AD. The

fact is, that's how the Church--one, holy Catholic, and apostolic--functioned for

1,500 years until some men came along and started teaching

traditions of men that contradicted the Word of God.