Is the Catholic Eucharist Necessary for Salvation? Does the Wine & Bread Literally Change into the Blood & Body of Christ?

 

IS CATHOLIC EUCHARIST 

NECESSARY FOR SALVATION?

DOES THE WINE AND BREAD LITERALLY TRANSFORM TO THE BLOOD AND FLESH OF JESUS?

The Catholic Blog - Helping people find answers to the most common questions about Catholicism with answers from the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the Bible. (www.catholic.blog )

“Is Catholic Eucharist Necessary for Salvation?” - Important Passages of The Catechism of the Catholic Church to Consider:

• “Our Savior instituted the Eucharistic sacrifice of his Body and Blood.  This he did in order to perpetuate the sacrifice of the cross throughout the ages until he should come again” (CCC 1323)
• “The Eucharist is ‘the source and summit of the Christian life.’” (CCC 1324)
• “The other sacraments, and indeed all ecclesiastical ministries and works of the apostolate, are bound up with the Eucharist and are oriented toward it.” (CCC 1324)
• “in the Blessed Eucharist is contained the whole spiritual good of the Church, namely Christ himself, our Pasch.” (CCC 1324) [NOTE: ‘Pasch’ means Passover or Easter]
• “The Eucharist is the efficacious sign and sublime cause of that communion in the divine life and that unity of the People of God by which the Church is kept in being.” (CCC 1325)
• “Holy Sacrifice because it makes present the one sacrifice of Christ the Savior and includes the Church’s offering.” (CCC 1330)
• “Holy Communion because by this sacrifice we unite ourselves to Christ.” (CCC 1331)
• “Holy Mass (Missa) because the liturgy in which the mystery of salvation is accomplished concludes with the sending forth (missio) of the faithful.” (CCC 1332)
• “At the heart of the Eucharistic celebration are the bread and wine that, by the words of Christ and the invocation of the Holy Spirit, become Christ’s Body and Blood.” (CCC 1333)
• “The bread and wine are brought to the altar; they will be offered by the priest in the name of Christ in the Eucharistic sacrifice in which they will become his body and blood” (CCC 1350)
• “The Church alone offers this pure oblation to the Creator” (CCC 1350)
• “no one may take part in it unless he believes that what we teach is true, has received baptism for the forgiveness of sins and new birth, and lives in keeping with what Christ taught.” (CCC 1355)
• “bread and wine which, by the power of the Holy Spirit and by the words of Christ, have become the body and blood of Christ.  Christ is thus really and mysteriously made present.” (CCC 1357)
• “It is by conversion of the bread and wine into Christ’s body and blood that Christ becomes present in this sacrament” (CCC 1375)
• “the making present and the sacramental offering of his unique sacrifice” (CCC 1362)
• “Because it is the memorial of Christ’s Passover, the Eucharist is also a sacrifice… in the Eucharist Christ gives us the very body which he gave up for us on the cross, the very blood which he ‘poured our for man for the forgiveness of sins.’” (CCC 1365)
• “The Eucharist is thus a sacrifice because it re-presents (makes present) the sacrifice of the cross, because it is its memorial and because it applies its fruit” (CCC 1366)
• “its salutary power be applied to the forgiveness of sins we daily commit” (CCC 1366)
• “Christ’s sacrifice present on the altar makes it possible for all generations of Christians to be united with his offering” (CCC 1368)’
• “The Church continues to reproduce this sacrifice” (CCC 1372)
• “the whole Christ is truly, really, and substantially contained” (CCC 1374)
• “it has always been the conviction of the Church of God…that by the consecration of the bread and wine there takes place a change of the whole substance of the bread into the substance of the body of Christ our Lord and of the whole substance of the wine into the substance of his blood.  This change the holy Catholic Church has fittingly and properly called transubstantiation” (CCC 1376)

“Is Catholic Eucharist Necessary for Salvation?” - Important Scriptures to Consider:

• John 6:35 “Jesus said to them, 'I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.’” (ESV)
• John 6:40 "For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.” (ESV)
• John 6:47–51 “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. [48] I am the bread of life. [49] Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. [50] This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die. [51] I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. And the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.” (ESV)
• John 6:56 “Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him.” (ESV)
• John 6:68–69 “Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, [69] and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.” (ESV)
• John 15:4 “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.” (ESV)
• 1 John 4:13 “By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit.” (ESV)
• 1 Corinthians 11:25–29 “In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” [26] For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. [27] Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord. [28] Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. [29] For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself.” (ESV)
• John 19:30 “When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” (ESV)
• Matthew 28:20 "I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (ESV)
• 2 Corinthians 13:5 “Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!” (ESV)

“Is Catholic Eucharist Necessary for Salvation?” - Important Questions to Consider:

• Why does Jesus compare the manna in the desert with himself as “the bread of life” in John 6:35?  What does He mean by never hunger and never thirst?  Does He mean the Eucharist elements will satisfy a literal hunger and thirst?  Or is He describing spiritual salvation, peace, and life through belief and trust in Jesus as the Son of God?
• What does Jesus describe in John 6:40 & John 6:47 as bringing eternal life?
• Why does someone literally eat and drink something?  What is the purpose of food and drink?  Why is trust important in the process of eating?  What does the eater believe about the food?
• Does John 6:56 mean Jesus’ literal flesh and blood?  Why does He reference the word “abide”?
• What does John 15:4 mean by “abide”? What does that look like in a plant?  What does that look like in the Christian life?
• Why does Peter tie Jesus’ words to “eternal life” in John 6:68-69?
• What does it mean to be “in Christ”? What unites us to Christ?  When are we united to Christ?
• What does it mean for Christ to be “in us”? When does that happen?
• What does 1 John 4:13 say is the evidence of union with Christ?  How does this counter the Catholic concept that union with God can only happen through the Eucharist (CCC 1331)?
• Here are some more helpful Bible passages on our union with Christ: 2 Corinthians 5:17, 12:2, 13:5; John 15:4, 5, 7; 1 Corinthians 15:22; Galatians 2:20, 3:28; Ephesians 1:4, 2:10, 3:17; Philippians 3:9; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; 1 John 4:13; Colossians 1:27; Romans 8:10
• When tasting the Eucharist, does the texture or taste change with the substance?  If the wine and the bread is literally transforming into the blood and flesh of Christ, then why does the texture and taste remain as wine and bread?
• Why is the Eucharist limited to the Catholic Church alone for those in good standing?  Is that what the Bible teaches in 1 Corinthians 11:17-34?
• Does 1 Corinthians 11:17-34 describe the elements actually transforming in substance?  Does it describe Jesus actually being present with them during that remembrance?
• Does it describe the Church bringing judgment or the Lord bringing judgment?  Does it describe individual discernment and accountability or the Church exercising oversight on who is allowed to take communion?
• Why does 1 Corinthians 11:25–29 say eat and drink the “bread and cup” but then switch to “guilty concerning the body and blood” and then back to “bread and cup” again?  
• Is it more about “proclamation” and “remembrance” (1 Cor 11) as the purpose or an “efficacious” and “present..sacramental offering” (CCC)? Why the stark contrast in terms?
• Does the Bible say Jesus’ sacrifice needs to be reproduced repeatedly? What did Jesus mean on the cross when He said “it is finished” (John 19:30)? 
• What does Jesus mean when He says “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20) and that “Jesus Christ is in you” (2 Cor 13:5)?  Is that only when the Eucharist is offered?  Or is He always present with believers through His Spirit?

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What the Bible Says About Christ Alone as the Cause of Our Salvation - Helpful and Important Scriptures (Part 2)

 HELPFUL AND IMPORTANT SCRIPTURES (Part 2)

The Catholic Blog - Helping people find answers to the most common questions about Catholicism with answers from the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the Bible. (www.catholic.blog)

What are the “Five Solas”

The “five solas” describe a summary of some of the major concerns and focuses of those who sought reform in the church in the 1500s during the “Protestant Reformation.”  “Sola” means alone and was used to define the essential elements of the Christian faith.  The “reformers” of the day saw many things being added to the pure teachings of the Bible.  Their corrective focus was found in their theological convictions about

 1) Scripture 2) Faith 3) Grace  4) Christ  5) God’s Glory 

when understanding God’s plans for salvation in the Gospel.

CHRIST ALONE

The Who (Cause) of Our Salvation

God reveals Himself sufficiently to us through His Son Jesus.  God provides salvation and forgiveness through Jesus alone, not through human priests or spiritual leaders.  We do not rely on a church, priests, or sacraments to know God not to experience the joy of His salvation.  Jesus is our perfect high priest who is the only way to His Father in Heaven.  Salvation is only found in the name of Jesus and no other human name or church name is necessary for forgiveness.

• John 1:14 “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (ESV)
• John 1:17–18 “For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. [18] No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father's side, he has made him known.”
• John 14:6 “Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (ESV)
• Acts 4:12 “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (ESV)
• Romans 10:9–10 “because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. [10] For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.” (ESV)
• Romans 10:13–15 “For ‘everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’ [14] How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? [15] And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” (ESV)
• 2 John 9 "Everyone who goes on ahead and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God. Whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son.” (ESV)
• Revelation 19:16 “On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords” (ESV)
• Hebrews 4:14 “Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.” (ESV)
• Galatians 3:13 "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us”
• 1 Timothy 2:5 "For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus” (ESV)
• Revelation 5:9–10 “And they sang a new song, saying, ‘Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, [10] and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.” (ESV)
• Colossians 1:18 “And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent.” (ESV)

See Also:

www.catholic.blog/scripture-alone

www.catholic.blog/faith-alone

www.catholic.blog/grace-alone

www.catholic.blog/gods-glory-alone

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Is Catholic Confirmation Necessary to Go to Heaven? To Receive the Holy Spirit?

 IS CATHOLIC CONFIRMATION NECESSARY FOR SALVATION? DOES CATHOLIC CONFIRMATION CONFER THE HOLY SPIRIT?

The Catholic Blog - Helping people find answers to the most common questions about Catholicism with answers from the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the Bible. (www.catholic.blog )

“Is Catholic Confirmation Necessary for Salvation?” - Important Passages of The Catechism of the Catholic Church to Consider:

• “the sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace” (CCC 1285)
• “the apostles, in fulfillment of Christ’s will, imparted to the newly baptized by the laying on of hands the gift of the Spirit that completes the grace of Baptism” (CCC 1288)
• “The imposition of hands is rightly recognized by the Catholic tradition as the origin of the sacrament of Confirmation, which in a certain way perpetuates the grace of Pentecost in the Church.” (CCC 1288)
• “The term confirmation suggests that this sacrament both confirms baptism and strengthens baptismal grace” (CCC 1289)
• “the effect of the sacrament of Confirmation is the special outpouring of the Holy Spirit at once granted to the apostles on the day of Pentecost” (CCC 1302)
• “Confirmation brings an increase and deepening of the baptismal grace” (CCC 1303)
• “Confirmation … roots us more deeply in the divine filiation which makes us cry, ‘Abba! Father!” (CCC 1303)
• “Confirmation … unites us more firmly to Christ” (CCC 1303)
• “Confirmation … increases the gifts of the Holy Spirit” (CCC 1303)
• “Baptism which it completes” (CCC 1304)
• “without Confirmation and Eucharist, Baptism is certainly valid and efficacious, but Christian initiation remains incomplete” (CCC 1306)
• “One should receive the sacrament of Penance in order to be cleansed for the gift of the Holy Spirit” (CCC 1310)
• “in danger of death children should be confirmed even if they have not yet attained the age of discretion” (CCC 1307)
• “If a Christian is in danger of death, any priest can give him Confirmation.  Indeed the Church desires that none of her children, even the youngest, should depart this world without having been perfected by the Holy Spirit with the gift of Christ’s fullness.” (CCC 1314)
• “Confirmation perfects Baptismal grace; it is the sacrament which gives the Holy Spirit” (CCC 1316)

“Is Catholic Confirmation Necessary for Salvation?” - Important Scriptures to Consider:

• 1 Corinthians 12:13 “For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.” (ESV)
• 2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” (ESV)
• Acts 8:14–17 “Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, [15] who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, [16] for he had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. [17] Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit.” (ESV)
• Acts 8:18–24 “Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, [19] saying, ‘Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.’ [20] But Peter said to him, ‘May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! [21] You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. [22] Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. [23] For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity.' [24] And Simon answered, ‘Pray for me to the Lord, that nothing of what you have said may come upon me.’” (ESV)
• Acts 19:4–6 “And Paul said, 'John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, Jesus.” [5] On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. [6] And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying.’” (ESV)
• Ephesians 1:13–14 “In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, [14] who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.” (ESV)
• Romans 8:9 “You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him.” (ESV)
• Romans 8:38–39 “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, [39] nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (ESV)
• John 3:5–8 “Jesus answered, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. [6] That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. [7] Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ [8] The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.’” (ESV)
• 1 Corinthians 6:19 “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God?” (ESV)

“Is Catholic Confirmation Necessary for Salvation?” - Important Questions to Consider:

• If someone does not go through their confirmation, is their baptism incomplete?
• If someone does not go through confirmation, do they ever receive the Holy Spirit?
• In Acts 8:14-17 we read a description where the people of Samaria had heard and received the word of God and been baptized in the name of Jesus.  The Holy Spirit doesn’t come until Peter and John arrive and lay hands on the believers.  In this one unique situation, the Holy Spirit didn’t arrive until the apostles did.  Why do you think that was so?  
• Read Acts 8:18-24 to see what happens next.  Could it be that in this one unique situation the Lord held back His Spirit to protect the people from the error of Simon the Magician?  That the presence of the apostles was to protect the unity of the early church in explaining more fully the power of God’s Spirit?  How is the “intent of the heart” connected with saving faith in Jesus?
• In Acts 19:1-7 at Ephesus we read of people who had not yet received the Holy Spirit.  We Apollos and those dozen men in Ephesus following the baptism of John or a saving belief in the name of Jesus?  What happened when they finally believed in Jesus (Acts 19:5-6)?
• When does someone receive the Holy Spirit according to the Bible? (1 Cor 12:13 & Eph 1:13-14)
• Is it possible to be a Christian and not have the Holy Spirit already? (Romans 8:9)
• Without confirmation are we less entitled to call God our Father?
• Without confirmation are we less united to Christ? What does Romans 8:38–39 say?
• Without confirmation do Christians have the Holy Spirit? Do they have less gifts of the Holy Spirit?
• Are Christians incomplete without Catholic Confirmation?
• Why would children or adults in danger of death be rushed into Confirmation?
• What does it mean to be “perfected by the Holy Spirit with the gift of Christ’s fullness”?
• Where does the Bible describe God’s grace as needing to be “perfected”?

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What the Bible Says About the Bible - Helpful and Important Scriptures (Part 1)

 HELPFUL AND IMPORTANT SCRIPTURES - Part 1

The Catholic Blog - Helping people find answers to the most common questions about Catholicism with answers from the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the Bible. (www.catholic.blog )

What are the “Five Solas”

The “five solas” describe a summary of some of the major concerns and focuses of those who sought reform in the church in the 1500s during the “Protestant Reformation.”  “Sola” means alone and was used to define the essential elements of the Christian faith.  The “reformers” of the day saw many things being added to the pure teachings of the Bible.  Their corrective focus was found in their theological convictions about

 1) Scripture 2) Faith 3) Grace  4) Christ  5) God’s Glory 

when understanding God’s plans for salvation in the Gospel. 

SCRIPTURE ALONE

The Bible alone is our greatest authority.

The What (Authoritative Communication) of Our Salvation

Scripture over Tradition and the Magisterium.

This does not mean that truth is not found elsewhere.  It means that all we learn about God, His Creation, and His plan for life and eternity should be interpreted in view of the Scriptures.  The Bible is sufficient for our theological understanding.

The Bible Is from God

• 2 Peter 1:19–21 “And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, [20] knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. [21] For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” (ESV)
• “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17
• “the Scriptures…bear witness about me” - Jesus in John 5:39-40 (ESV)
• "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." James 1:17
• Deuteronomy 18:20 “But the prophet who presumes to speak a word in my name that I have not commanded him to speak, or who speaks in the name of other gods, that same prophet shall die.’” (ESV)

The Bible Is Sufficient for Salvation

• 2 Peter 1:3 “His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence” (ESV)
• 2 Timothy 3:10-17 “the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” 
• James 1:21  “receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls”
• Ephesians 6:17  “take…the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God”
• Psalm 119:105 “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
• Mark 12:24 “Jesus said to them, ‘Is this not the reason you are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God?’"
• "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success." Joshua 1:7-8
• Jude 3 “Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.” (ESV)
• John 20:30–31 “Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; [31] but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” (ESV)

Do Not Add or Take Away from the Bible’s Teaching & Authority

• Deuteronomy 4:2 “You shall not add to the word that I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments of the LORD your God that I command you.” (ESV)
• Deuteronomy 12:32 “Everything that I command you, you shall be careful to do. You shall not add to it or take from it.” (ESV)
• Ecclesiastes 3:14 "I perceived that whatever God does endures forever; nothing can be added to it, nor anything taken from it. God has done it, so that people fear before him.” (ESV)
• Proverbs 30:5–6 “Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. [6] Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you and you be found a liar.” (ESV)
• 2 John 9 “Everyone who goes on ahead and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God. Whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son.” (ESV)
• 1 Corinthians 4:6–7 “I have applied all these things to myself and Apollos for your benefit, brothers, that you may learn by us not to go beyond what is written, that none of you may be puffed up in favor of one against another. [7] For who sees anything different in you? What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?” (ESV)
• 2 Timothy 2:15 “rightly handling the word of truth” (ESV)
• Galatians 1:6–9 “I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—[7] not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. [8] But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. [9] As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.” (ESV)
• Revelation 22:18–19 “I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book, [19] and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book.” (ESV)

Relevant Warnings - Do Not Turn Away from the Bible

• 2 Timothy 4:3–4 “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, [4] and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.” (ESV)
• 2 Peter 2:1 “But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies”
• Jude 4 “For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God”
• Matthew 23:4 “They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on people's shoulders"

See also:

www.catholic.blog/christ-alone

www.catholic.blog/faith-alone

www.catholic.blog/grace-alone

www.catholic.blog/gods-glory-alone

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Free Books for Catholics: www.catholic.blog/books 

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Frequently Asked Catholic Questions: www.catholic.blog  

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Top 30 Videos for Catholics on YouTube

 

Here are some of the best videos for Catholics on YouTube! 

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1. What is the Catechism of the Catholic Church? (The Catholic Blog #2) https://youtu.be/8jg1uBShHF4
2. How Do We Know God? (The Catholic Blog #3) https://youtu.be/DMu-6z9AIRo 
3. How Do We Know Truth? (The Catholic Blog #4) https://youtu.be/H_nLb8M_m5I 
4. Does Church Tradition Change?  Does God's Revelation Continue in Catholicism? (The Catholic Blog #5) https://youtu.be/pCs9bDpStM4
5. Who Can Teach Authoritatively? Can Only Catholic Priests, Bishops, & Popes Interpret the Bible? (The Catholic Blog #6) https://youtu.be/LW4mDVYKrWM 
6. What is a Valid Church? Is the Catholic Church the Only True Church?  (The Catholic Blog #7) https://youtu.be/3zGZMs-flPc 
7. What is Sin According to the Catholic Catechism? Do Different Sins Need Different Sacrifices? (The Catholic Blog #8) https://youtu.be/bYolzoQG83g
8. How can we be saved according to the Catholic Catechism?  Is salvation alone thru Catholicism? https://youtu.be/PJlqg9oPkjg (The Catholic Blog #9)
9. Do We Receive Grace and the Holy Spirit through the Catholic Sacraments? (The Catholic Blog #10) https://youtu.be/Du2T7EXwF0I 
10. Is Catholic Mass Necessary to Go to Heaven? Does Giving Money to Church Save Us? Catholic Blog #11 https://youtu.be/LREEjW5ioc4
11. Will I Go to Heaven If I Am Not Baptized in the Catholic Church? Babies? - The Catholic Blog #12  https://youtu.be/CWmdiGmoeUA 
12. Is Catholic Confirmation Necessary to Go to Heaven? To Receive the Holy Spirit? Catholic.Blog #13 https://youtu.be/KBFwAOhaTL8 
13. Is the Catholic Eucharist Necessary for Salvation? Does the Wine & Bread Literally Change into the Blood & Body of Christ? FAQ #14  https://youtu.be/h0aBRyCuVpE 
14. The Catholic Blog FAQ #15 - Does Our Eucharist Help the Dead? Help Us Connect to the Dead? https://youtu.be/RXciw9PnVNM 
15. Is Catholic Penance Necessary for Salvation and Forgiveness? FAQ #16 from Catholic.blog  https://youtu.be/eFTvG3_Mhbw 
16. The Catholic Blog FAQ #17 - Is Peter the First Pope? https://youtu.be/iwuAHnyZnCQ 
17. The Catholic Blog FAQ #18 - Did Peter have Authority Over All the Apostles? https://youtu.be/LZkMsxjcIxE 
18. The Catholic Blog FAQ #19 - Does Peter Call Himself a Pope or Bishop? https://youtu.be/HBAhQurwdQo 
19. Catholic.blog FAQ #20 - Was Peter Married? Is Priestly Celibacy Biblical? https://youtu.be/5XDpUgVVhPw 
20. The Catholic Blog FAQ #21 What Is Veneration? Is Mary Our Mother? Should Mary Be Venerated? https://youtu.be/xCeEFqGCyPI
21. The Catholic Blog FAQ #22 Was Mary Always Saved?  Did Mary Never Sin? https://youtu.be/ZG4rDLNshIM 
22. The Catholic Blog FAQ #23 - Is Mary the Cause of Salvation? Did Mary Save the Whole Human Race?  https://youtu.be/kCMP17Kh8Lk 
23. The Catholic Blog FAQ #24 Was Mary a Virgin Her Entire Life? Did Jesus Have Any Brothers?  https://youtu.be/ZxNt_iL1QxU 
24. The Catholic Blog FAQ #25  Is It True that Mary Never Died? Did Mary Ascend to Heaven? https://youtu.be/KocqlOtQe18 
25. The Catholic Blog FAQ #26 Are Images of Jesus, Mary, Saints, or Angels Helpful or Harmful? Do Relics &Rosaries have Power?  https://youtu.be/wbSvx9JMaAw 
26. Why Do Catholics Talk to the Dead? Is it OK to Pray to Mary, the Saints, & Angels? #27 Catholic.blog https://youtu.be/S_0acCThoF4 
27. Who Goes to Purgatory? Will I Go to Purgatory? Do Indulgences Help Us? - The Catholic Blog FAQ #28  https://youtu.be/4oKmWwnxr4o 
28. How Can Marriages Be Annulled? What Does the Bible Say about Catholic Divorce and Remarriage? FAQ#29 https://youtu.be/vXL3lYAj0pg 
29. Is the Catholic Catechism Corrupt? Or Trustworthy? ... See for Yourself! The Catholic Blog FAQ#30 https://youtu.be/nITsSzHS5p0 
30. Why is the Catholic Bible Different? Are the Extra Books Trustworthy? - The Catholic Blog FAQ #31 https://youtu.be/q36gjc41CmI 

Will I Go to Heaven If I Am Not Baptized in the Catholic Church? What About Babies Who Die Before Being Baptized?

 IS CATHOLIC BAPTISM NECESSARY FOR SALVATION??

The Catholic Blog - Helping people find answers to the most common questions about Catholicism with answers from the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the Bible. (www.catholic.blog )

“Is Catholic baptism necessary for salvation?” - Important Passages of The Catechism of the Catholic Church to Consider:

• “Those who belong to Christ through faith and Baptism must confess their baptismal faith before men” (CCC 14)
• “All who have been justified by faith in Baptism are incorporated into Christ.” (CCC 818)
• “Baptism, the gate by which we enter into the Church.” (CCC 950)
• “Baptism is necessary for salvation for those who have not yet been reborn” (CCC 980)
• “communicating forgiveness of sins in Baptism” (CCC 981)
• “The grace of the Holy Spirit has the power to justify us, that is, to cleanse us from our sins and to communicate to us ‘ the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ’ and through Baptism” (CCC 1987)
• “Justification is conferred in Baptism, the sacrament of faith” (CCC 1992)
• “Baptism is the first and chief sacrament of forgiveness of sins because it unites us with Christ” (CCC 977)
• “The faithful are born anew by Baptism” (CCC 1212)
• “Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit” (CCC 1213)
• “Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God” (CCC 1213)
• “Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word” (CCC 1213)
• “This sacrament is also called the ‘washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit’ for it signifies and actually brings about the birth of water and the Spirit without which no one ‘can enter the Kingdom of God’” (CCC 1215)
• “exorcisms are pronounced over the candidate” (CCC 1237)
• “the baptismal water is consecrated by a prayer” (CCC 1238)
• “Baptism…signifies and actually brings about death to sin and entry into the life of the Most Holy Trinity through configuration to the Paschal mystery of Christ” (CCC 1239)
• “Baptism is performed in the most expressive way by triple immersion in the baptismal water.  However from ancient times it has also been able to be conferred by pouring the water over the candidate’s head” (CCC 1239)
• “The newly baptized is now, in the only Son, a child of God, entitled to say the prayer of the children of God: ‘Our Father’” (CCC 1243)
• “Baptism is the source of that new life in Christ from which the entire Christian life springs forth” (CCC 1254)
• “The Lord himself affirms that Baptism is necessary for salvation” (CCC 1257)
• “Baptism is necessary for salvation for those whom the Gospel has been proclaimed and who had the possibility of asking for this sacrament” (CCC 1257)
• “God has bound salvation to the sacrament of Baptism, but he himself is not bound by his sacraments” (CCC 1257)
• “For catechumens who die before their Baptism, their explicit desire to receive it, together with repentance for their sins, and charity, assures them the salvation that they were not able to receive through the sacrament” (CCC 1259)
• “By baptism all sins are forgiven” (CCC 1263)
• “Justified by faith in Baptism” (CCC 1271)
• “Baptism seals the Christian with the indelible spiritual mark (character) of his belonging to Christ.” (CCC 1272)

ARE INFANTS SAVED BY BAPTISM?

• “Born with a fallen human nature and tainted by original sin, children have need of the new birth in Baptism to be freed from the power of darkness and brought into the realm of the freedom of the Children of God” (CCC 1250)
• “The Church and the parents would deny a child the priceless grace of becoming a child of God were they not to confer Baptism shortly after birth” (CCC 1250)
• “As regards children who have died with Baptism, the Church can only entrust them to the mercy of God, as she does in her funeral rites for them. …allow us to hope that there is a way of salvation for children who have died without Baptism” (CCC 1261)
• “with respect to children who have died without Baptism, the liturgy of the Church invites us to trust in God’s mercy and to pray for their salvation” (CCC 1283)

WHY IS EVERY CATHOLIC EXORCISED AT BAPTISM?

• “When the Church asks publicly and authoritatively in the name of Jesus Christ that a person or object be protected against the power of the Evil One and withdrawn from his dominion, it is called exorcism” (CCC 1673)
• “Jesus performed exorcisms and from him the Church has received the power and office of exorcizing.  In a simple form, exorcism is performed at the celebration of Baptism.” (CCC 1673)
• “The solemn exorcism, called a ‘major exorcism,’ can be performed only by a priest and with the permission of the bishop.  The priest must proceed with prudence, strictly observing the rules established by the Church.” (1673)
• “Exorcism is directed at the expulsion of demons or to the liberation from demonic possession through he spiritual authority which Jesus entrusted to his Church.” (1673)

“Is Catholic baptism necessary for salvation?” - Important Scriptures to Consider:

• Titus 3:5 “he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit” (ESV)
• John 3:5 “Jesus answered, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.’” (ESV)
• Ezekiel 36:25–27 “I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. [26] And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. [27] And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.” (ESV)
• Romans 6:3–4 “Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? [4] We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.” (ESV)
• 1 John 2:29 “If you know that he is righteous, you may be sure that everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him.” (ESV)
• 1 John 3:9 “No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God's seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning, because he has been born of God.” (ESV)
• 1 John 4:7 “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.” (ESV)
• 1 John 5:1 "Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father loves whoever has been born of him." (ESV)
• 1 John 5:4 “For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.” (ESV)
• 1 Corinthians 1:14 "I thank God that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Gaius”
• 1 Corinthians 1:17 “For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with words of eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.”
• 1 Corinthians 15:1–8 “Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, [2] and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you—unless you believed in vain. [3] For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, [4] that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, [5] and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. [6] Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. [7] Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. [8] Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.” (ESV)
• 2 Samuel 12:21-23 "His servants asked him, "Why are you acting this way? While the child was alive, you fasted and wept, but now that the child is dead, you get up and eat!" 22 He answered, "While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept. I thought, 'Who knows? The LORD may be gracious to me and let the child live.' 23 But now that he is dead, why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me.”
• Ecclesiastes 6:3-5 “I say that a stillborn child is better off than he." (ESV)
• Deuteronomy 1:39 “And as for your little ones, who you said would become a prey, and your children, who today have no knowledge of good or evil, they shall go in there. And to them I will give it, and they shall possess it.” (ESV)
• Titus 2:11–12 “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, [12] training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age” (ESV)
• Zechariah 3:2 “And the LORD said to Satan, “The LORD rebuke you, O Satan! The LORD who has chosen Jerusalem rebuke you! Is not this a brand plucked from the fire?” (ESV)
• Jude 9–10 “But when the archangel Michael, contending with the devil, was disputing about the body of Moses, he did not presume to pronounce a blasphemous judgment, but said, “The Lord rebuke you.” [10] But these people blaspheme all that they do not understand, and they are destroyed by all that they, like unreasoning animals, understand instinctively.” (ESV)
• More scriptures on the death of babies and children: www.trustworthyword.com/what-does-the-bible-say-about-the-death-of-babies-children 
• More scriptures on baptism: www.trustworthyword.com/what-does-the-bible-say-about-baptism 
• An Ante-Nicene (early church fathers’) historical approaches to spiritual warfare and exorcism: www.trustworthyword.com/sw-church-history  (NOTE: very different from the much later (1614) Catholic Church’s Rituale Romanum approach to the demonic)

“Is Catholic baptism necessary for salvation?” - Important Questions to Consider:

• Why is Baptism such a big deal for Catholic doctrine?  What does it mean that Baptism isn’t completed without penance, catechism, and the Eucharist?  Is that seen in the Bible?
• Is the “born of water” a reference to baptism in John 3:5? Or a reference to Ezekiel 36:25-27?
• Do the passages in 1 John speak about being born again by baptism? Or through belief? Love? Personal and relational knowledge of God? Evidenced by a changed life? In faith?
• Does Romans 6:3–4 describe being baptized into a church?
• Why is the process of getting baptized &going through Catechism in the Catholic Church so lengthy compared to the instantaneous belief and baptisms seen in Acts 2:41, 8:36, 9:18, 16:33, 18:8, 19:5?
• Is the consecration (blessing) of baptismal water in the Bible?
• Where is triple immersion in the Bible? Where is pouring over/infusion in the Bible?
• Where does the Bible advocate for praying for someone’s salvation after they already died?
• If baptism is necessary for salvation, why would Paul say he was thankful that he only baptized two people at Corinth (1 Corinthians 1:14)?
• If baptism is necessary for salvation, why would Paul say “Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel” (1 Corinthians 1:17)?
• Why Paul outlines the gospel in 1 Cor 15:1-8 why does he not mention baptism?  What is his focus?
• What do these passages imply about the salvation of babies & children who die? 2 Samuel 12:21-23, Deuteronomy 1:39, Job 3:11-17, Ecclesiastes 6:3-5, & Jeremiah 19:4.
• Are baptismal exorcisms (casting out of Satan/demons) in the Bible?  Why is exorcism performed as part of every Catholic Baptism?
• When exorcisms happen in the Bible what rules exist?  Or is it a simple command in the authority and name of Jesus?
• Why does the Roman Catholic Church has such extensive rules and procedures for exorcism as encapsulated in Rituale Romanum?

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You can download the free eBook "A Biblical Study of The Catechism of the Catholic Church" at www.catholic.blog or purchase a Kindle, paperback, or hardback version at Amazon (www.amazon.com/gp/product/B098L1MRLK).6 Tough Passages on Baptism to Consider

The below passages are tough to understand and seem, on their own, to advocate for baptismal regeneration (that baptism saves).  If we look more closely at them individual, we can see them more clearly and how they can be reconciled with the many Scriptures that explain that salvation comes through faith alone as a free gift of God’s loving grace.

1) Does Acts 2:38 teach that baptism is necessary for salvation?

Acts 2:38, “And Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”

• Could the best translation for “for” in this context be either “because of” or “in regard to” and not “in order to get”?
• Another important note is how some of the verbs and pronouns are different: some are singular and some are plural.  Could this mean that “when you take into account the change in person and plurality, essentially what you have is ‘You (plural) repent for the forgiveness of your (plural) sins, and let each one (singular) of you be baptized (singular).’ Or, to put it in a more distinct way: ‘You all repent for the forgiveness of all of your sins, and let each one of you be baptized.’” (for more see: www.gotquestions.org/baptism-Acts-2-38.html )

2) Does Mark 16:16 teach that baptism is necessary for salvation?

Mark 16:16 “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.”

• An important translation note: “There is some question as to whether these verses were originally part of the Gospel of Mark or whether they were added later by a scribe. As a result, it is best not to base a key doctrine on anything from Mark 16:9-20, such as snake handling, unless it is also supported by other passages of Scripture.”
• If this verse it to be included in Scripture, does it even describe the eternal status of those who “believe and have not been baptized”?  We cannot for certain the opposite is true.
• What is the evidence of condemnation in this verse?  Is it even connected to baptism? 
• Does the Bible ever say that if one is not baptized they are not saved?  What about the man on the cross next to Jesus who is never baptized, never goes to church, never takes Eucharist, and is never confirmed? 
• What is required for salvation? Belief.
• More at: www.gotquestions.org/baptism-Mark-16-16.html 

3) Does 1 Peter 3:21 teach that baptism is necessary for salvation?

1 Peter 3:21 “Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ” (ESV)

• When Peter connects baptism to salvation, what is the root cause of the salvation?  What does baptism represent?  What does an “appeal to God” mean?
• Why does the Peter refer to the mechanical act of baptism ("removal of dirt”)?  It he pointing out that it isn’t about the act itself, but about the inward appeal of belief and repentances?
• How did the waters of the flood “save” Noah and his family?  How are the ark and baptism connected here (1 Peter 3:20)?
• Was Noah saved by his wisdom, obedience, skill, and hard work to build the ark?  Or was he saved by his inwards trust and love of the Lord so that the God provided a rescue from the waters of judgment?  Who shut the door of the ark (Genesis 7:16)?
• Are we saved by our wisdom, obedience, and diligence to get baptized?  Or are we saved by our inward trust and love of the Lord in how He provided a rescue from the judgment of sin through His death and resurrection on the cross?
• See www.gotquestions.org/baptism-1Peter-3-21.html for more helpful thoughts.

4) Does John 3:5 teach that baptism is necessary for salvation?

John 3:5 “Jesus answered, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. (ESV)

• Why is the word “baptism” not explicitly used here but is used later in the chapter (John 3:22-30) at a different time and place?
• Why is water the symbol of cleansing throughout the Bible? (for examples see: Psalm 51:2,7; Ezekiel 36:25, John 13:10; 15:3; 1 Corinthians 6:11; Hebrews 10:22; Ephesians 5:26; Titus 3:5)
• How might this connect to the “living water” Jesus speaks to later in John? (John 4:10 & 7:37-39)
• How does this “water” cleanse us internally and eternally? (see Ezekiel 36:25-27 & Titus 3:5)
• Why is water used often to symbolize the Spirit’s work in us? (see Isaiah 44:3 & John 7:38-39)
• Was Nicodemus being rebuked for not understanding baptism or for not understanding these passages: Ezekiel 36:25-27 and Jeremiah 31:33.
• More insights here: www.gotquestions.org/baptism-John-3-5.html 

5) Does Acts 22:16 teach that baptism is necessary for salvation?

Acts 22:16 “And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name.’” (ESV)

• Did Paul believe before his baptism (Galatians 1:11-12)?  
• Did Paul receive the Holy Spirit before his baptism? (Acts 9:17-18)
• A helpful translation note: “The Greek aorist participle, epikalesamenos, translated "calling on His name" refers either to action that is simultaneous with or before that of the main verb, "be baptized." Here Paul’s calling on Christ’s name for salvation preceded his water baptism. The participle may be translated "having called on His name" which makes more sense, as it would clearly indicate the order of the events.”
• How does baptism externally portray the inward washing away of sin that happens at salvation? (1 Corinthians 6:11 and 1 Peter 3:21).
• When Paul shares his testimony of conversion with King Agrippa (Acts 26:12-18), why does He focus on meeting Jesus on the road to Damascus and not on his encounter with Ananias (Acts 9:10-17) and baptism?
• For further study, checkout: www.gotquestions.org/baptism-Acts-22-16.html 

6) Does Galatians 3:27 teach that baptism is necessary for salvation?

Galatians 3:27 "For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” (ESV)

• Why is Paul writing this letter to the Galatians according to Galatians 1:6-10?
• What does he mean that we are “not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Christ” (Galatians 2:16) and that “you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:26)?
• Is this passage even talking about baptism into water?  Or is it talking about union with Christ through the baptism of the Holy Spirit at the point of faith?  What does Romans 8:9 say is the principal difference between believers and non-believers?
• How is Jesus the one “who baptizes with the Holy Spirit” (John 1:33-34)?
• What does it mean to be “sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise” (Ephesians 1:13-14)?
• More info on this passage here: www.gotquestions.org/baptism-Galatians-3-27.html