Where Do Catholics Find Their Religious Rules if Not from the Bible?

Catholics have a robust tradition of religious belief and practice that extends beyond the Bible. This article explores how Catholics find their religious rules and teachings, beyond what is written in the sacred scriptures.

The Role of Sacred Oral Tradition

The sacred oral tradition is a fundamental component of the Catholic faith, alongside the Bible. This tradition serves as a supplementary source from which religious doctrines and rules are derived. According to 2 Thessalonians 2:14, it is essential to hold on to the traditions learned through oral teachings.

Protestant vs. Catholic Beliefs

The Catholic Church does not operate in a vacuum; it has distinct doctrines that differentiate it from Protestant beliefs. Protestantism, characterized by its slogan "Sola Scriptura" (Scripture alone), often rejects certain Catholic teachings. However, many of these beliefs are actually rooted in the Bible, and others are derived from sacred tradition.

Where Do Extrabiblical Beliefs Come from?

Catholics believe that divine revelation not only comes from the Bible but from additional sources such as sacred tradition. Sacred tradition refers to the teachings and practices that have been passed down through the Church from its inception. The Church Councils, such as the Council of Jerusalem (mentioned in Acts), play a crucial role in formulating and reinforcing these teachings.

Key Differences with Protestant Beliefs

Some key areas of differentiation between Catholic and Protestant beliefs include:

Eucharist: The real presence of the Eucharist is a cornerstone of Catholic faith, rooted in numerous scriptural references. Imagery in Worship: While Protestants often argue that images in worship are akin to idol worship, Catholics draw their understanding from biblical examples, such as the images and relics of the Old Testament. Saints and Relics: Catholics revere saints and relics, seeing them as guides and intercessors to God, in contrast to the Protestant emphasis on direct communion with God alone. No Divorce: The Church teaches that marriage is a sacrament, and remarriage is generally not permitted, adhering to Jesus' teachings as recorded in the Bible. Killing of Innocents: The Church maintains strong stances on the sanctity of life, including opposition to abortion and euthanasia, which are often debated in secular and religious contexts.

Trusting the Church's Guidance

In the wake of Martin Luther's reforms, many Protestant sects have departed from the teachings of the Catholic Church. While some Protestant denominations may claim to have their roots in specific scriptural interpretations, the Catholic Church argues that its teachings are rooted in a broader tradition that includes the Bible, sacred tradition, and Church Councils.

Conclusion

The Catholic Church's beliefs and practices are deeply rooted in both the Bible and sacred tradition. While some Protestant denominations may argue that certain Catholic practices are not biblically supported, a closer examination reveals that many of these beliefs are indeed present in the Bible, and others are derived from a long-standing and well-established tradition.

For those interested in understanding the full scope of Catholic beliefs, it is essential to explore both scriptural and traditional sources. The Church trusts in the guidance of the Holy Spirit to preserve and transmit its teachings accurately through the ages.