Reasoning with Mormons out of the scriptures (Acts 17:2) (Home)
Table of Contents:
Introduction 3. Adam
6. The Priesthood 9. The Gospel
12. Eternal Life
1. His Image 4. God
7. Apostasy
10. Baptism Summary
2. Creation 5. Trinity
8. Prophets
11. Marriage
Scripture Reference
7. Apostasy
Some depart from the apostolic faith (LDS | Bible | Catholic | Early Church Writings)
Reason with a Mormon by asking - Why does the LDS church teach of a Great Apostasy where the Church is completely destroyed when the Bible reveals that SOME will fall away from the faith of the apostles?
LDS Gospel Principles Chapter 16 "More and more error crept into Church doctrine, and soon the destruction of the Church was complete. The period of time when the true Church no longer existed on earth is called the Great Apostasy. ... The prophet Isaiah had foreseen this condition, prophesying, "The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant" (Isaiah 24:5)."
1Tim.4 ([1] Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;)
Mormonism is an example of the apostasy described in the Bible, the Bible reveals "in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils” (1Tim.4:1; 2Thes.2:3; Rev.2:18-23). Mormons have departed from the the faith that was taught by the apostles of Christ, the faith that taught "one God" and which was once delivered unto the saints (Mark.12:29,32). The LDS church has not stood fast, and held the traditions taught by the apostles either by oral or by written (2Thes.2:15). The man Joseph Smith has deceived the members of the LDS church and they have fallen away just like the Bible prophesied (2Thes.2:3). We can know if the LDS Church is true or false Christianity by comparing its teachings with the written and oral traditions of the apostles (Acts.17:1; 2Thes.2:15).
The apostles knew of the apostasy before the second coming of Christ and they taught other faithful men to "stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle" (2Thes.2:15; 2Tim.2:2). The church of the living God is the pillar and bulwark of the truth and it faithfully guards the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints (1Tim.3:15; Jude.1:3). The Lord has "set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, . . . and it shall stand for ever" (Dan.2:44). The apostolic Church continues in the things which they have learned and have been assured of, knowing whom they learned it (2Tim.3:14). The apostle Paul tells us to avoid those who cause division and offences contrary to the doctrine which we have learned (Rom 16:17).
Stand fast, and hold the traditions (LDS | Bible | Catholic | Early Church Writings)
Reason with a Mormon by asking - Why does the LDS church teach that the LDS church has restored the Lord's church when the LDS church has changed doctrine established by the Lord's and his apostles?
Gospel Principles Chapter 17 "The Savior promised to restore his Church in the latter days. He said, "I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people, even a marvellous work and a wonder" (Isaiah 29:14)."
2Thes.2 ([3] Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; [15] Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.)
The apostles committed to their doctrine to faithful men who in turn taught other faithful men (2Tim.2:2). The Church of the living of God is the pillar and bulwark of the truth and it faithfully guards the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints (1Tim.3:15; Jude.1:3). The apostolic Church continues in the things which they have learned and have been assured of, knowing whom they learned it (2Tim.3:14). God built his church on the rock of Peter (Matt.16:18). Authority did not need to be restored because authority continued with the apostle’s successors (Tit.1:4-9). The office of the twelve apostles did not need to be restored because the twelve apostles were special witness who had the requirement of being a witness Jesus’ life and resurrection (Acts.1:8-26; Acts.10:39-41; John.15:16-27). Revelation did not need to be restored because there are many prophets in the church (1Cor.14:26-37; 1Cor.12). The gospel did not need to be restored, the apostles safeguarded the faith by transmitting "the faith which was once delivered unto the saints" "to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others" (Jude 1:3,17; 2Tim 2:2).
The Savior did not promise to restore his Church before His second coming. For Israel there was a famine for hearing the words of the Lord, they transgressed the laws, they changed the ordinance, they broke the everlasting covenant; and they killed their prophets (Amos.8:2-12; Isa.24:5). God gave Israel a spirit of slumber, and eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear (Rom.11). The restoration of Israel described in the Old Testament began with the prophet John the Baptist (Isa.24:5; Rom.11). The restitution of all things mentioned in Acts.3:21 occurs after the second coming (Rev.21:1-5).
Some depart from the apostolic faith .
Gospel Principles Chapter 16 "One by one, the Apostles were killed. Because of the persecution, surviving Apostles could not meet to choose and ordain men to replace those who were dead. Eventually, local priesthood leaders were the only ones who had authority to direct the scattered branches of the Church. The perfect organization of the Church no longer existed, and confusion resulted. More and more error crept into Church doctrine, and soon the destruction of the Church was complete. The period of time when the true Church no longer existed on earth is called the Great Apostasy. ... The Roman emperor adopted this false Christianity as the state religion. This church was very different from the church Jesus organized. Members of this church believed that God was a being without form or substance. ... They did not know that we are his children. They did not understand the purpose of life. Many of the ordinances were changed because the priesthood and revelation were no longer on the earth. ... There were no Apostles or other priesthood leaders with power from God, and there were no spiritual gifts. The prophet Isaiah had foreseen this condition, prophesying, "The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant" (Isaiah 24:5). It was the Church of Jesus Christ no longer; it was a church of men. "
Gospel Principles Chapter 16 "2 Peter 2:1; Matthew 24:9-12; John 16:1-3; Amos 8:11; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 (Apostasy predicted) ... Daniel 2:44-45; Matthew 24:14; Micah 4:1; Isaiah 2:2-4 (Restoration predicted) "
Gospel Principles Chapter 16 "We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth" (Articles of Faith 1:6). ... Through the persecution and martyrdom of Church leaders and the general wickedness of the people, the Church of Jesus Christ was taken from the earth. Today the Church of Jesus Christ has been restored and is called The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. All of the offices and functions of the Church in the days of Jesus are present in the Church today."
Gospel Principles Chapter 16 "Some Features That Identify the Church of Jesus Christ -- Revelation When Jesus established his Church, he personally instructed and directed its leaders. He, in turn, received his instructions from his Father in Heaven. Thus the Church of Jesus Christ was directed by God and not by men (see Hebrews 1:1-2). Jesus taught his followers that revelation was the "rock" upon which he would build his Church (see Matthew 16:16-18). .... Authority from God The ordinances and principles of the gospel cannot be administered and taught without the priesthood. The Father gave this authority to Jesus Christ (see Hebrews 5:4-6), who in turn ordained his Apostles and gave them the power and authority of the priesthood (see Luke 9:1-2; Mark 3:14). After he ascended into heaven, the pattern of appointment and ordination was continued. Others were ordained to the priesthood by those who had already received that authority. Jesus made it known through the Holy Ghost that he approved of those ordinations (see Acts 1:24). ... The Church Organization The Apostles were commanded to go into all the world and preach. They could not stay in any one city to supervise new converts. Therefore, local priesthood leaders were called and ordained, and the Apostles presided over them. ... Jesus had set a pattern for twelve Apostles to govern the Church. It seemed clear that the organization was to continue as he had established it. First Principles and Ordinances ... they received two ordinances: baptism by immersion and the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. ... Everyone needed these saving ordinances of baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost. Ordinances Performed for the Dead Living members of his Church then performed ordinances in behalf of the dead (see 1 Corinthians 15:29). ... Spiritual Gifts Many of his disciples performed miracles, prophesied, or beheld visions through the power of the Holy Ghost."
Gospel Principles Chapter 17 "After the Savior ascended into heaven, men changed the ordinances and doctrines that he and his Apostles had established. The true Church was no longer on the earth. Men organized different churches that claimed to be true but taught conflicting doctrines. There was much confusion and contention over religion. The Lord had foreseen these conditions, saying there would be "a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord. . . . They shall . . . seek the word of the Lord, and shall not find it" (Amos 8:11-12)."
LDS Gospel Principles Chapter 17 "In the spring of 1820. . . . Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph Smith. The Savior told him not to join any church because the true Church was not on the earth. He also said that the teachings of present churches were "an abomination in his sight""
Gospel Principles Chapter 20 "The prophet Mormon said that it is mockery before God to baptize little children because they are not capable of sinning. ... We Make Covenants When We Are Baptized ... faith and repentance are steps that prepare us for baptism. ... baptism is not required of little children; baptism is required of all who repent"
Book of Mormon Moroni 8 "Infant baptism is an evil abomination—Little children are alive in Christ because of the atonement— [11]And their little children need no repentance, neither baptism. Behold, baptism is unto repentance to the fulfilling the commandments unto the remission of sins."
Gospel Principles Chapter 20 "We Must Be Baptized before We Can Receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost ... Baptism by immersion by a person having the proper authority is the only acceptable way of being baptized."
Gospel Principles Chapter 21 "Cornelius did not receive the gift of the Holy Ghost until after he was baptized. ... People who have been baptized and confirmed are given the gift of the Holy Ghost through the laying on of hands by the elders of the Church."
Stand fast, and hold the traditions .
LDS Gospel Principles Chapter 16 "A Restoration Foretold - - God had foreseen the Apostasy and prepared for the gospel to be restored. The Apostle Peter spoke of this to the Jews: "He shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began" (Acts 3:20-21). John the Revelator had also foreseen the time when the gospel would be restored. He said, "I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people" (Revelation 14:6). ... Read Daniel 2:44-45. What did Daniel see? Explain that the Church is the "stone" mentioned in this scripture."
Gospel Principles Chapter 17 "The Savior promised to restore his Church in the latter days. He said, "I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people, even a marvellous work and a wonder" (Isaiah 29:14). For many years people lived in spiritual darkness. About 1700 years after Christ, people were becoming more and more interested in knowing the truth about God and religion. Some of them could see that the gospel Jesus taught was no longer on the earth. Some recognized that there was no revelation and no true authority and that the church that Christ organized did not exist on the earth. The time had arrived for the Church of Jesus Christ to be restored to the earth."
Gospel Principles Chapter 17 "New Revelation from God - In the spring of 1820, one of the most important events in the history of the world occurred. The time had come for the marvelous work and wonder of which the Lord had spoken. ... Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph Smith. ... Beginning with this event, there was again direct revelation from the heavens. The Lord had chosen a new prophet. Since that time the heavens have not been closed. Revelation continues to this day through each of his chosen prophets. Joseph was to be the one to help restore the true gospel of Jesus Christ." Authority from God Was Restored - In restoring the gospel, God again gave the priesthood to men. John the Baptist came in 1829 to ordain Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery to the Aaronic Priesthood (see D&C 13; 27:8). Then Peter, James, and John, the presidency of the Church in ancient times, came and gave Joseph and Oliver the Melchizedek Priesthood and the keys of the kingdom of God (see D&C 27:12-13). Later, additional keys of the priesthood were restored by heavenly messengers such as Moses, Elias, and Elijah (see D&C 110:11-16). Through the Restoration the priesthood was returned to the earth. Those who hold this priesthood today have the authority to perform ordinances such as baptism. They also have the authority to direct the Lord's kingdom on earth. "
Gospel Principles Chapter 17 "His Church is called The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ... The Lord has said that it is "the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth, with which I, the Lord, am well pleased" ... Joseph Smith was sustained as prophet and "first elder" of the Church (see D&C 20:2-4). Later the First Presidency was organized, and he was sustained as President. When the Church was first organized, only the framework was set up. The organization was completed during the next several years. ... The Church was organized with the same offices as were in the ancient Church. That organization included Apostles, prophets, seventies, evangelists (patriarchs), pastors (presiding officers), high priests, elders, bishops, priests, teachers, and deacons. These same offices are in his Church today (see Articles of Faith 1:6). ... A prophet, acting under the direction of the Lord, leads the Church. This prophet is also the President of the Church. He holds all the authority necessary to direct the Lord's work on earth (see D&C 107:65, 91). Two counselors assist the President. Twelve Apostles, who are special witnesses of Jesus Christ, teach the gospel in all parts of the world. ... A bishop and his two counselors preside over each ward."
Gospel Principles Chapter 17 "First Principles and Ordinances Were Restored - The first principles and ordinances of the gospel are faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism by immersion, and the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost (see Articles of Faith 1:4). Through the gift and power of God, Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon, which contains the plain and precious truths of the gospel. Many other revelations followed and have been recorded as scripture in the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price (see chapter 10, "Scriptures")."
Gospel Principles Chapter 17 "Other important truths that the Lord restored include the following: 1. Our Heavenly Father is a real person with a tangible, perfected body of flesh and bones. 2. We existed in premortal life as spirit children of God. 3. The priesthood is necessary to administer the ordinances of the gospel. 4. We will be punished for our own sins and not for Adam's transgression. 5. Children do not need to be baptized until they are accountable (eight years old). 6. There are three degrees of glory in the heavens, and people will be rewarded according to their actions on earth. 7. Family relationships can be eternal through the sealing power of the priesthood. 8. The temple endowment and sealings are available for both the living and the dead."
Gospel Principles Chapter 17 "The Church of Jesus Christ Will Never Be Destroyed - The Church will never again be taken from the earth. Its mission is to take the truth to every person. Thousands of years ago, the Lord said he would "set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, . . . and it shall stand for ever" (Daniel 2:44)."
Gospel Principles Chapter 41 "The Apostle John saw that the gospel would be restored by an angel (see Revelation 14:6-7). In fulfillment of this prophecy the angel Moroni and other heavenly visitors brought the gospel of Jesus Christ to Joseph Smith."
Bible verses from King James
Some depart from the apostolic faith .
2Thes.2 ([3] Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; [15] Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.)
1Tim.3 ([15] But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.)
Amos.8[2] And he said, Amos, what seest thou? And I said, A basket of summer fruit. Then said the LORD unto me, The end is come upon my people of Israel; I will not again pass by them any more. [11] Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD: [12] And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the LORD, and shall not find it.)
Isa.24 ([5] The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant.)
Rom.11([1] I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. [2] God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying, [3] Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life. [4] But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal. [5] Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. [6] And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work. [7] What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded [8] (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day. [9] And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumbling block, and a recompence unto them: [10] Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, and bow down their back alway. [25] For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. [26] And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: )
Matt.16 ([18] And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. [19] And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.)
Matt 16 Footnotes in the NAB "[18] You are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church: the Aramaic word kepa - meaning rock and transliterated into Greek as Kephas is the name by which Peter is called in the Pauline letters (1 Cor 1:12; 3:22; 9:5; 15:4; Gal 1:18; 2:9, 11, 14) except in Gal 2:7-8 ("Peter"). It is translated as Petros ("Peter") in John 1:42. The presumed original Aramaic of Jesus' statement would have been, in English, "You are the Rock (Kepa) and upon this rock (kepa) I will build my church." The Greek text probably means the same, for the difference in gender between the masculine noun petros, the disciple's new name, and the feminine noun petra (rock) may be due simply to the unsuitability of using a feminine noun as the proper name of a male. Although the two words were generally used with slightly different nuances, they were also used interchangeably with the same meaning, "rock." Church: this word (Greek ekklesia) occurs in the gospels only here and in Matthew 18:17 (twice). There are several possibilities for an Aramaic original. Jesus' church means the community that he will gather and that, like a building, will have Peter as its solid foundation. That function of Peter consists in his being witness to Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of the living God. The gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it: the netherworld (Greek Hades, the abode of the dead) is conceived of as a walled city whose gates will not close in upon the church of Jesus, i.e., it will not be overcome by the power of death."
Matt 16 Footnotes in the NAB "[19] The keys to the kingdom of heaven: the image of the keys is probably drawn from Isaiah 22:15-25 where Eliakim, who succeeds Shebnah as master of the palace, is given "the key of the house of David," which he authoritatively "opens" and "shuts" (Isaiah 22:22). Whatever you bind . . . loosed in heaven: there are many instances in rabbinic literature of the binding-loosing imagery. Of the several meanings given there to the metaphor, two are of special importance here: the giving of authoritative teaching, and the lifting or imposing of the ban of excommunication. It is disputed whether the image of the keys and that of binding and loosing are different metaphors meaning the same thing. In any case, the promise of the keys is given to Peter alone. In Matthew 18:18 all the disciples are given the power of binding and loosing, but the context of that verse suggests that there the power of excommunication alone is intended. That the keys are those to the kingdom of heaven and that Peter's exercise of authority in the church on earth will be confirmed in heaven show an intimate connection between, but not an identification of, the church and the kingdom of heaven."
Dan 2 Footnotes in the NAB " [36-45] The four successive kingdoms in this apocalyptic perspective are the Babylonian (gold), the Median (silver), the Persian (bronze), and the Hellenistic (iron). The last, after Alexander's death, was divided among his generals (Daniel 2:41-42). The two resulting kingdoms, which most affected the Jews, were the dynasty of the Ptolemies in Egypt and that of the Seleucids in Syria, who tried in vain, by war and through intermarriage, to restore the unity of Alexander's empire (Daniel 2:43). The stone hewn from the mountain is the messianic kingdom awaited by the Jews (Daniel 2:44-45). Our Lord made this image personal to himself; cf Luke 20:17-18. "
Dan 7 Footnotes in the NAB " [13-14] One like a son of man: in contrast to the worldly kingdoms opposed to God, which appear as beasts, the glorified people of God that will form his kingdom on earth is represented in human form (Daniel 7:18). Just as our Lord applied the figure of the stone hewn from the mountain to himself (Daniel 2:36-45), he also made the title "Son of Man" his most characteristic way of referring to himself, as the One in whom and through whom the salvation of God's people came to be realized."
Dan.2 ([44] And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.)
Dan.7 ([14] And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.)
1Tim.3 ([15] But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.)
1Tim.4 ([1] Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;)
2Thes.2 ([2] That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. [3] Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; [4] Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God. [7] For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. [15] Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.)
2Thes 2 Footnotes in the NAB "[15] Reference to an oral statement and a letter (2 Thes 2:2) and the content here, including a formula of conclusion (cf 1 Cor 16:13; Gal 5:1), suggest that 2 Thes 2:1-15 or even 2 Thes 2:1-17 are to be taken as a literary unit, notwithstanding the incidental thanksgiving formula in 2 Thes 2:13."
2Thes.3 ([6] Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.)
2Tim.3 ([1] This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. [5] Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. [14] But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; )
2Tim.1 ([13] Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. [15] This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me; of whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes.)
Acts.20 ([17] And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church. [25] And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. [28] Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. [29] For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. [30] Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. [31] Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears [32] And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. [38] Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.)
Jude.1 ([3] Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints[17] But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; )
Col.2 ([4] And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words. [5] For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ. [6] As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: [7] Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. [8] Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. [20] Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, [21] (Touch not; taste not; handle not; [22] Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?)
Rev.13 ([7] And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.)
Rev.2 ([13] I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. )
Heb 12 Footnotes in the NAB "[18-29] As a final appeal for adherence to Christian teaching, the two covenants, of Moses and of Christ, are compared. The Mosaic covenant, the author argues, is shown to have originated in fear of God and threats of divine punishment (Hebrews 12:18-21). The covenant in Christ gives us direct access to God (Hebrews 12:22), makes us members of the Christian community, God's children, a sanctified people (Hebrews 12:23), who have Jesus as mediator to speak for us (Hebrews 12:24). Not to heed the voice of the risen Christ is a graver sin than the rejection of the word of Moses (Hebrews 12:25-26). Though Christians fall away, God's kingdom in Christ will remain and his justice will punish those guilty of deserting it (Hebrews 12:28-29)."
Heb 12 Footnotes in the NAB "[18] This remarkably beautiful passage contrasts two great assemblies of people: that of the Israelites gathered at Mount Sinai for the sealing of the old covenant and the promulgation of the Mosaic law, and that of the followers of Jesus gathered at Mount Zion, the heavenly Jerusalem, the assembly of the new covenant. This latter scene, marked by the presence of countless angels and of Jesus with his redeeming blood, is reminiscent of the celestial liturgies of the Book of Revelation."
2Pet.2
[1] But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.Matt.24
[9] Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake.
[10] And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.
[11] And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.
[12] And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.John.16
[1] These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended.
[2] They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.
[3] And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me.2Thes.2
[3] Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;
[4] Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
Stand fast, and hold the traditions .
Rev 14 Footnotes in the NAB "[6-13] Three angels proclaim imminent judgment on the pagan world, calling all peoples to worship God the creator. Babylon (Rome) will fall, and its supporters will be tormented forever. [6] Everlasting good news: that God's eternal reign is about to begin"
Isaiah 29 Footnotes in the NAB "[1-2] Ariel: variously interpreted to mean "lion of God" or "hearth (altar) of God," a poetic name for Jerusalem; or perhaps to be read as Uru-el, "foundation of God," an archaic name for the Jebusite city of Jerusalem; like that Ariel, against which David encamped, it will be besieged by God. [9-12] Jerusalem in her blindness refuses to believe God's revelation that she will be saved. [17-24] The prophet presents God's plan of redemption in terms of unheard-of natural phenomena as if such changes in nature took place, e.g., the change of the cedars of Lebanon into an orchard (Isaiah 29:17)."
Acts.3([20] And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: [21] Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began. [24] Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days.)
Acts 3 Footnotes in the NAB "[20] The Lord . . . and send you the Messiah already appointed for you, Jesus: an allusion to the parousia or second coming of Christ, judged to be imminent in the apostolic age. This reference to its nearness is the only explicit one in Acts. Some scholars believe that this verse preserves a very early christology, in which the title "Messiah" (Greek "Christ") is applied to him as of his parousia, his second coming (contrast Acts 2:36). This view of a future messiahship of Jesus is not found elsewhere in the New Testament. [21] The times of universal restoration: like "the times of refreshment" (Acts 3:20), an apocalyptic designation of the messianic age, fitting in with the christology of Acts 3:20 that associates the messiahship of Jesus with his future coming."
Rev.14 ([6] And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, [7] Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. )
Rev.21 ([1] And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. [2] And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. [3] And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. [4] And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. [5] And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. )
Matt.17 ([10] And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come? [11] And Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things. [12] But I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them. [13] Then the disciples understood that he spake unto them of John the Baptist.)
Acts.1 ([6] When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel
Amos.8[2] And he said, Amos, what seest thou? And I said, A basket of summer fruit. Then said the LORD unto me, The end is come upon my people of Israel; I will not again pass by them any more. [11] Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD: [12] And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the LORD, and shall not find it.)
Isa.24 ([5] The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant.)
Rom.11([1] I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. [2] God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying, [3] Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life. [4] But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal. [5] Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. [6] And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work. [7] What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded [8] (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day. [9] And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumbling block, and a recompence unto them: [10] Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, and bow down their back alway. [25] For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. [26] And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: )
John 10 Footnotes in the NAB [16] Other sheep: the Gentiles, possibly a reference to "God's dispersed children" of John 11:52 destined to be gathered into one, or "apostolic Christians" at odds with the community of the beloved disciple.
Dan.2
[44] And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.
[45] Forasmuch as thou sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold; the great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream is certain, and the interpretation thereof sure.
Matt.24
[14] And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end comeMic.4
[1] But in the last days it shall come to pass, that the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be established in the top of the mountains, and it shall be exalted above the hills; and people shall flow unto it.Isa.2
[2] And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD's house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it.
[3] And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.
[4] And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.
Isa 2 Footnotes in the NAB "[2-4] The messianic destiny which ensures Judah's later restoration. In the messianic kingdom the prophets generally see the Lord's house as the seat of authority and the source of clear and certain doctrine; also, its rule willingly accepted by all peoples, maintained by spiritual sanctions, and tending to universal peace. This passage is found substantially unchanged in Micah 4:1-3; it probably, although not certainly, has Isaiah as its author."
[9] In response to the disciples' question about the expected return of Elijah, Jesus interprets the mission of the Baptist as the fulfillment of that expectation. But that was not suspected by those who opposed and finally killed him, and Jesus predicts a similar fate for himself.
[4] The clothing of John recalls the austere dress of the prophet Elijah (2 Kings 1:8). The expectation of the return of Elijah from heaven to prepare Israel for the final manifestation of God's kingdom was widespread, and according to Matthew this expectation was fulfilled in the Baptist's ministry (Matthew 11:14; 17:11-13).
[14] John the Baptist: see Matthew 14:2. Elijah: cf Malachi 3:23-24; Sirach 48:10; and see the note on Matthew 3:4. Jeremiah: an addition of Matthew to the Marcan source.
[23] (23)Elijah: described in 2 Kings 2:11 as taken heavenward in a fiery chariot. Here his return to earth seems to be foretold. Jewish tradition has interpreted this literally; Christ declared it to be fulfilled in the coming of John the Baptizer (Matthew 17:10-13).Catholic Church Teachings
Some depart from the apostolic faith .
Before Christ's second coming the Church must pass through a final trial that will shake the faith of many believers. The persecution that accompanies her pilgrimage on earth will unveil the "mystery of iniquity" in the form of a religious deception offering men an apparent solution to their problems at the price of apostasy from the truth. From its very beginnings there arose certain rifts, which the Apostle strongly censures as damnable. But in subsequent centuries much more serious dissensions appeared and large communities became separated from full communion with the Catholic Church. There is divisions, schisms, heresies, and disputes. Heresy is the obstinate post-baptismal denial of some truth which must be believed with divine and catholic faith, or it is likewise an obstinate doubt concerning the same; apostasy is the total repudiation of the Christian faith.
What Christ entrusted to the apostles, they in turn handed on by their preaching and writing, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, to all generations, until Christ returns in glory. The apostles entrusted the "Sacred deposit" of the faith, contained in Sacred Scripture and Tradition, to the whole of the Church.
By adhering to [this heritage] the entire holy people, united to its pastors, remains always faithful to the teaching of the apostles.
The Church, "the pillar and bulwark of the truth", faithfully guards "the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints". She guards the memory of Christ's words; it is she who from generation to generation hands on the apostles' confession of faith. This treasure, received from the apostles, has been faithfully guarded by their successors. All Christ's faithful are called to hand it on from generation to generation, by professing the faith.
Sacred Scripture is the speech of God as it is put down in writing under the breath of the Holy Spirit. And [Holy] Tradition transmits in its entirety the Word of God which has been entrusted to the apostles by Christ the Lord and the Holy Spirit. It transmits it to the successors of the apostles so that, enlightened by the Spirit of truth, they may faithfully preserve, expound and spread it abroad by their preaching. God is the author of Sacred Scripture, have been written down under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Relying on the faith of the apostolic age, accepts as sacred and canonical the books of the Old and the New Testaments, whole and entire, with all their parts, on the grounds that, written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, they have God as their author. The inspired books teach the truth. The books of Scripture firmly, faithfully, and without error teach that truth which God.
The Church does not derive her certainty about all revealed truths from the holy Scriptures alone. Both Scripture and Tradition must be accepted. The Tradition here in question comes from the apostles and hands on what they received from Jesus' teaching and example and what they learned from the Holy Spirit. The first generation of Christians did not yet have a written New Testament, and the New Testament itself demonstrates the process of living Tradition. It was by the apostolic Tradition that the Church discerned which writings are to be included in the list of the sacred books. This complete list is called the canon of Scripture. As she has done for the canon of Sacred Scripture and for the doctrine of the faith, the Church, by the power of the Spirit who guides her "into all truth," has gradually recognized this treasure received from Christ and, as the faithful steward of God's mysteries. Through Tradition the Church, in her doctrine, life and worship, perpetuates and transmits to every generation all that she herself is, all that she
believes. The sayings of the holy Fathers are a witness to the life-giving presence of this Tradition.