4/16/08

Gospel of Benedict?

American Bible Society welcomes Pope Benedict XVI to America with special printing of Luke’s Gospel given to worshippers at special events: source
Tuesday, April 15, 2008

"NEW YORK (ANS) -- A special printing of the Gospel of Luke featuring the likeness of Pope Benedict XVI on the cover is being produced by the American Bible Society to mark the pontiff's first visit to the United States."

"Each person attending the Papal Mass at Yankee Stadium, as well as those attending several of the smaller gatherings in New York, will receive their own commemorative copy of the Bible portion."

"The release says the Roman Catholic church "is a vibrant part of the Bible Society......."

"The Rev. Dr. Paul Irwin, president of the American Bible Society, and Rev. Dr. Richard Jeske, director of ecumenical and interfaith relations, will meet with the Pope at a special meeting held with Christian leaders."
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re: Pope Benedict XVI on the cover of Luke's gospel....?

What's wrong with that picture?

Answer: The Catholic church teaches that the pope is the "vicar (substitute) of Christ on the earth", wielding universal power over the whole church. According to the 1994 Catechism of the Catholic Church, which states:

"For the Roman Pontiff, by reason of his office as Vicar of Christ, and as pastor of the entire Church has full, supreme, and universal power over the whole Church, a power which he can always exercise unhindered." Pg. 234, #882

"The Roman Pontiff... as supreme pastor and teacher of all the faithful..." Pg. 235, #891
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While the Catholic church elevates the pope to the position of "supreme pastor and teacher of all the faithful," God's Word reveals that someone else already fills that position:

"But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." John 14:26

"Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth..." John 16:13

excerpted from: "Understanding Roman Catholicism" (briefly examines 37 of the most important doctrines of the Roman Catholic Church, showing that none of them have any basis in scripture): vicar of Christ? ch. 6
(see full book: table of contents)

fyi
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Rev. 18:4

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