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How the Bible Came to Be: A Perspective on Scripture Formation

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Recently, I explored why sola scriptura —the idea of relying solely on the Bible as the source of spiritual authority—is not sufficient for Christian life ( you can read that post here ). Inspired by discussions around Scripture’s role in our faith, today I want to delve into how the Bible we hold dear actually came into existence. Understanding this history highlights the Catholic perspective: the Bible was formed not as an isolated text, but within the living community and tradition of the Church. Why Scripture Is Read During Mass: Historical Context For centuries, few people owned personal Bibles—or even books—due to cost and literacy barriers. Before widespread printing and education, Scripture was primarily experienced through public readings in church gatherings. This communal proclamation ensured that all Christians, literate or not, could encounter God’s Word. Reading Scripture during Mass thus served a practical as well as spiritual purpose: making God’s Word accessible an...
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Why Sola Scriptura Isn’t Enough: A Catholic Perspective

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In a recent YouTube video by Kenny Burchard, I found myself deeply reflecting on the concept of sola scriptura , a doctrine central to many Protestant denominations which posits that Scripture alone is the final authority on matters of faith and morals. This resonated strongly with memories of lively discussions during the men's fellowship breakfasts I used to enjoy with friends like Chris, Ken, and Ted. Those mornings often stirred vigorous debate, especially around foundational issues of faith and the authority guiding Christian living. Today, from a Catholic standpoint, I want to explore why sola scriptura —though sincerely held by many—ultimately falls short as the exclusive basis for Christian life. What Is Sola Scriptura? Sola scriptura , Latin for "by Scripture alone," emerged prominently during the Protestant Reformation as an alternative to the Catholic understanding of authority. At its core, it holds that the Bible alone is sufficient to guide all aspects o...
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The Error of Pelagianism and the Power of Grace: A Call to Humble Dependence on God

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In every age, the Church confronts doctrinal distortions that obscure the truth of the Gospel. One of the earliest and most enduring of these is Pelagianism —a heresy that subtly undermines the foundational Christian truth that we are saved by grace, not by our own merit. While its origins trace back to the fifth century, Pelagianism—or something very much like it—remains a temptation even today. Understanding what it teaches and why the Church rejects it is essential for deepening our faith and avoiding the dangerous illusion of self-sufficiency. What Is Pelagianism? Pelagianism is a theological belief system named after Pelagius , a British monk who taught that human beings have the innate ability to do good and attain salvation without the assistance of divine grace. Pelagius denied the concept of original sin , arguing instead that people are born morally neutral and capable of choosing righteousness through the strength of their free will. In short, Pelagianism says: “You ca...
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A Protestant's Journey to Catholicism (Truth, Sacrament, and Unity)

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Introduction As someone who was raised within the vibrant rhythms of Protestant Christianity, I carry with me a deep respect for its devotion, scriptural focus, and personal piety. My early years were shaped by attending the AME Church with my grandparents , and later, the Church of Christ with my father and step-family . These communities gave me spiritual roots—but it was not until the late 1990s that I discovered in Catholicism a completeness I did not know I was missing. This journey was not undertaken lightly. It involved years of questioning, prayer, and study. And if I may offer a personal note—it was also deeply influenced by my wife’s, and her mother’s, unwavering depth of faith . Watching them live their Catholic beliefs with grace, strength, and conviction awakened in me a desire to better understand what sustained them. Eventually, it led me home to the Church founded by Christ Himself. What follows is a structured comparison of my experience in Protestantism with wha...
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Hope, Tradition, and Realism in the Papacy of Pope Leo XIV: A Conservative Catholic's Perspective

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Hope, Tradition, and Realism in the Papacy of Pope Leo XIV: A Conservative Catholic's Perspective   Introduction As a conservative Catholic, I often wrestle with the tension between fidelity to sacred tradition and the realities of ecclesial development in our time. In this essay, I offer a respectful but critical review of the coat of arms and early papal posture of Pope Leo XIV (born Robert Francis Prevost), with the hope that his pontificate may be a vessel for the renewal of traditional values and doctrinal clarity. I have attempted to remain balanced in tone and charitable in critique, but I must admit that my human nature and love for the Church will no doubt allow traces of my bias to appear. And if I may offer a light aside—I do think of myself as a conservative Catholic, but I'm sure there are some in my family ( Is that right, Gents? ) who might peg me as a bit more moderate than I let on. Realism About Restoration Let us begin with a necessary dose of rea...
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Why Christians Should Not Lie

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 As Christians, the call to truthfulness is not merely a moral preference but a fundamental aspect of our faith. Lying is viewed as inherently wrong, a stance grounded in the very nature of God, the teachings of Jesus Christ, and the ethical framework provided by the Bible. This article explores why lying is considered inappropriate for Christians, supported by key biblical references. The Nature of God The foundation of the Christian aversion to lying is rooted in the nature of God Himself. Scripture reveals God as a being of absolute truth. In Titus 1:2, we read, "God, who does not lie," emphasizing that truthfulness is an intrinsic attribute of God. Proverbs 12:22 further reinforces this by stating, "The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy." These verses underscore that lying is antithetical to God's character and therefore should be avoided by His followers. The Ninth Commandment The Ten Commandments form a crucial part of ...
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Why It Is Permissible for Christians to Eat Pork: A Biblical Perspective

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Why Christians Are Free to Eat Pork: A Biblically Rooted and Spiritually Liberating Update Originally Published: June 28, 2024 Updated: June 14, 2025 The question of whether Christians can eat pork often stirs curiosity—and sometimes concern—among believers. This stems from the dietary restrictions in the Old Testament, particularly within the Mosaic Law. However, the New Testament reveals a liberating shift in understanding, inviting Christians into a new covenant grounded in grace, not dietary limitations. Let’s walk through the Scriptures to see why, in the light of Christ’s fulfillment of the law, eating pork is indeed permissible—and spiritually consistent with our faith. Old Covenant Boundaries: Setting the Stage Under the Mosaic Law, specific dietary rules were given to the Israelites, including a ban on pork. Leviticus 11:7-8 (NJB) states: “The pig, since it has a cloven hoof, but does not chew the cud, is unclean for you. You must not eat their meat or touch their carcasses;...
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