Could you please send me a copy of the information that I can share with the Roman Catholics? Thanking you in advance.
J.G. of Safat, Kuwait
Dear J.G.,
We sure are curious how Kuwait got our address! The information you requested is on its way. Hope to hear from you again. God bless you for reaching out to our Catholic friends.
In Jesus,
Rebecca Sexton
Dear FCFC,
Thank you for the materials which you sent. I have read over much of your information. I ask, with mutual courtesy, that you will do the same.
There are many issues which you deal with (Immaculate Conception, Purgatory, The Holy Eucharist, The Ten Commandments, etc.) yet they all revolve around one essential question; is the Catholic church valid i.e. does it have any authority/authenticity in Christ?
The Holy Spirit is the author of unity, not dissent and confusion. If we examine history we learn that the Holy Bible was not in existence as such (yes-- various communities had various epistles and gospels and other letters, but not compiled nor viewed as our current N.T., a total conviction as divinely inspired) until the Councils of Carthage of Hippo (390, 393 A.D.). Hence God worked through the Church which He set up at the death of Christ in order to give us the Scriptures of the N.T. as 27 books.
The primacy of the Pope also finds a great deal of support. St. Peter often spoke 1st among the Apostles (see the gospels) and is listed first. Christ changed his (Peter's) name which denotes significance as we know from the O.T.; you may have heard that in Greek Christ called Peter Petros (a little pebble - Matt.16:18). Matthew's gospel, however was written in Aramaic originally and later translated to Greek. (see Mt.27:46 - Jesus' words here were in Aramaic). Jesus called Peter Kepha in Aramaic, which means Large, massive Rock (never before did God deem someone as "Rock") on which to build His Church. So, why petros in the Greek rather than Petra (=Large Rock)? Because in Greek you have masculine, feminine of neuter nouns. The nouns take on different gender endings so in translation one could not give a man (Peter) a feminine name, so the noun had to be changed from Petra/Kepha to Petros in order to agree with the male name of Peter. The long and short of it is; a) Christ changed Simon's name to Peter 2) Christ called Peter a Large Massive Rock c) on which Christ would build the Church (Matt.16:18).
Peter, as head of the Church and subsequent Popes, receive their authority from Christ. Peter presided over the Council of Jerusalem ACTS 15:7-12 and even Paul himself felt it necessary to title himself as a spiritual father I Cor.4:15. Timothy explains Scripture in the name of the Church ACTS 8:27-39 and the Church is to interpret Scripture correctly 2 Tim.1:14; 2 Tim.3:2, 2 Pet.1:20. Jesus tells us that Peter and his successors are to lead the Church until the end of time Mt.28:20.
As Catholics we do not worship the Pope but we do recognize the need for leadership and to obey Chirst, who commanded it so and gave great authority to his disciples Jn.20:19-23.
It is with such authority that we look at Purgatory, which one of your tracts dealt with. You are correct in saying that Purgatory is not stated explicitly or literally in Scripture. One must point out, however, that although the Bible is truth, not all truth is in the Bible Jn.21:25. For example, the TRINITY is not literally recorded nor defined nor is the term INCARNATION etc. yet we hold these as truth (you and I both, correct?) Please read the following verses and see if you "catch my drift" so to speak. I Jn.5:16-17, I Pet.3:19;4:6, I Cor.3:10-16 and Rev.21:27, Lk.12:58, 19-31, Mt.5:21-26, !2:32, 2 Maccabees 12:38-46.
Once again, we need a visible head on earth, one who, appointed by Christ, aids in our continual understanding and comprehension of Christs' revelation to us.
Why such disunity among the 5,000 + Protestant denominations? all claim to have the truth, all claim that their interpretations are correct. Is this the "Body" of the Church of Christ spoke of - is the disunity the "spouse of Christ" of which He is the Bridegroom?
The Catholic Church has made mistakes and sinners have been a part of her history. Yet are any of us impeccable? Are any perfect? Christ chose Judas as an Apostle; St. Peter denied Christ 3 times; yet Peter was called to serve. One cannot and must not judge Jesus Christ by the weaknesses of His servants for it is "not you who have chosen me, but I who have chosen you:" Jn.15:16.
God Bless You In Christ,
J.R.B. of Carey, OH
Dear J.R.B.,
Thank you for writing FCFC.Your first claim that "the Holy Spirit is the authority of unity" comes with the condition of truth. Without truth, there can be no unity. In Matthew 10:34-39 gives us a picture of disunity. Jesus says,
"Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. and a man's foes shall be they of his own household."
Truth unites, error divides. Why do you think there is so much dissention in Catholicism and Protestantism? Any time man strays from the boundaries of the Word of God they fall into error. Catholicism puts tradition on the same level as the Bible; Charismatics - experience; Mormons - Joseph Smith; Jehovah's Witnesses - Watchtower; Seventh Day Adventist - Ellen G. White; and the list goes on. As you can see, when anyone adds to or takes from the word of God, confusion, dissention and disunity abounds. The gates of hell shall never prevail against the blood, therefore, we who are found washed in His blood and found not having our own righteousness which is after the law, "...but that which is through the faith of Christ , the righteousness which is of God by faith" are united in Christ.
Your claim that Peter is a Rock is erroneous. John 1:42 says that "Cephas is by interpretation, a stone [petros]". Both the Aramaic and the Greek were used so as not to leave us confused over Peter's place. Eph.2:20-22 says we are "...built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone. In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto a holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for a habitation of God through the Spirit." What is the foundation of the apostles and prophets? "For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ." (I Cor.3:11) The prophets and apostles all gave testimony to Jesus Christ (I Pet.1:9-12), their foundation, their Rock! Jesus is the head over the true church, not the pope (Col.1:18; 2:10, 19; Eph.1:22; 4:15; 5:23; I Pet.2:7). Not one scripture calls Peter the head! Peter titles himself an elder, and Jesus the Chief Shepherd (I Pet.5:1, 4).
Peter did not preside over the Council of Jerusalem in Acts 15:7-12. James, in verse 19 says, "My sentence is..." and in verse 22, it pleased the apostles and elders with the whole church. Peter did not have supremecy! As far as Peter being named first, read Gal.2:9, where Paul names James first and says though they (James, Cephas and John) "...seemed to be pillars", it made no difference to him since God "accepteth no man's person" (V.6).
Concerning the Bible, we use the KJV only. The Catholic Bible contains serious errors, deletions and additions, because she used corrupted Egyptian manuscripts. The history Catholicism attempts to teach her subjects concerning the Bible differs from other historical and biblical facts.
You used John 21:25 to prove that "The Bible is truth, not all truth is in the Bible". Although it is true that there are innumerable things that Jesus had done that weren’t written down, only proves this is not scriptures’s purpose. John assures us in 20:31 that "...these [Scriptures] are written that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name." Everything we need to be saved is supplied in the Bible as 2 Tim.3:15-17 affirms. Barring all man-made explanations of the divinity of Christ, including Trinity, I find written very clearly in the Scripture that Jesus is "Alpha and Omega, beginning and end, first and last, ...Lord God Almighty" (Rev.1:8, 11, 17). "His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." (Isa.9:6) I Tim.3:16 tells us that "God was manifest in the flesh...." And again, Acts 20:28, “...to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.” I feel no personal need to add anything to what God so beautifully reveals about Himself.
The authority that the Roman Catholic church has, she achieved by bloodshed, theft, forgeries, and lies. Jesus says, "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." (Mt.28:18) No pope can change that. Jesus left His infallible Spirit here to guide the church into all truth (Jn.16:5-14).
"Diversity and division is infinitely more precious than a Satanic unity. The problem God's people are facing today: Satan wants unity in what? In error. God would infinitely prefer division because of truth. Do you know what Jesus said in Matt.10? He said, 'I have come not to bring peace, not to bring unity, but to bring division’...That is what Jesus said he came to do...God's smashing of Satanic ecumenical unity was an incredible blessing [Gen.11: the Tower of Babel]...The potential for Satanic depravity is infinite, as long as what continues? A unity in error - organized blasphemy. Measure this friends. Grasp it. Satan will, in his brief hour, at the end of this world, be given his opportunity to demonstrate what total unity is like in the human race, when every person will have a mark on the forehead or right hand, and will walk lockstep under incredible blasphemy...You say, 'We want unity.' Oh really? What kind of unity? 'We want all the churches to get together.' Oh really? You mean in error, in confusion, in heresy? That is, dear friends, the ecumenical movement of our hour, in which all the great denominations and all the great church leaders are becoming more and more unified. In what? In compromise and theological error; and this is the ultimate horror" (Human Races - A message delivered at Indian Hills Community Church, Lincoln, Nebraska, fall of 1984, John Whitcomb Jr.).
We were told to judge everything by the word of God. "To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." (Isa.8:20) John 12:48 tells us why:
“He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.”
We hope to hear from you again J.R.B. If you have any other questions, please feel free to write. We welcome all criticism and comments. We cherish our freedom to ask questions and encourage others to do the same while time remains.
Most Sincere,
Rebecca A. Sexton
Greetings in the wonderful Name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,
After reading the newsletters you sent, I fully agree with the work you are doing for our Lord. One has to stand strong for what the Word of God says. Its sad that so many Christians do not fully see the warfare we are in. It really is a battle for souls. But one day you will hear our Lord say, "Well done." and that is what counts. As each problem comes forth, Almighty God will give one the grace needed. When I was a young man, I was told that God's team is always a winning team and God has proven that over and over.
I truly believe that our Lord Jesus Christ will come soon. No man knows the time or day, but the signs of His coming are all around us, and showing forth more so each day. Do you agree?
So keep your eyes on our Lord, and never give up on the work you are doing, no matter what comes your way. Jesus Christ is always at the helm.
If you get a chance, read Dr. Ruckman's "History of the New Testament Church" Vol. 1+2. He may step on a lot of toes pretty hard, but the doctrine and knowledge he puts forth has never been proven wrong. In these two volumes he has the true history of the RCC down pat. As I said in my last letter, since I have been disabled, I've had much time to do a lot of deep studying. These last couple years have been a blessing. But kind of sad also, because when one shows or gives out what is taking place in this world, so many so-called Christians take a stand against one. But I thank God for the BIBLE believing Christians who do stand strong.
I too meet with home Bible groups and don't go to any one church. I guess when I do go to a church and hear false doctrines, I speak out, but in order. Of course that curtails my welcome. I've seen places I have gone to, the church was full, but I found that I would have a whole pew to my self. But I praise the Lord. I don't worry about that. But only when worldly Christians pat me on the back and say nice things. Then I go home and get on my knees and ask God to show me what I did wrong.
I will close for now. Stand strong in what you are doing, no matter what storms may rage around you. I keep you all in my prayers.
Respectfully in the service of our Lord Jesus Christ,
E.N.T. of Cape Coral, FL
Dear E.N.T.,
Your letter was so uplifting as usual. You asked if we believe that Jesus is coming soon. The answer is yes, most definitely! And we are excited about it. As we see the world moving toward a global society (one-world government) and the churches joining in the one-world religion, we can't help but look up and anxiously await our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Between the Illuminati, Masons and Jesuits, we shouldn't have to wait too much longer.
I believe you are correct when you say we have to stand regardless of the storm that rages around us. God says he will lift us up on eagle's wings. Do you know that when an eagle builds her nest, she starts with thorns and briars, as to grab hold of the crevices in the rocks. She then lines it with animal skins. She tops it with feathers to make the nest comfortable for her young ones. When they come of age to learn to fly, they are so comfortable that they refuse to leave the nest. The mother eagle pulls the animal skins away, exposing the briars and thorns, making the nest very uncomfortable for the young eagles. They are now willing to leave the nest and step on the mother's wing. She takes them one at a time on her wing, flies up very high and drops them. Their wings flutter violently as they tumble to the earth. Just before they hit, the mother swoops down and lifts them up on her wing and returns them to the nest where they can never be comfortable again. About the third time, the young eagle learns to fly. The mother then teaches her young ones to fly above the storm. Likewise, God makes us uncomfortable in our nests till we are willing to learn to fly. When we think we can't make it, God lifts us up on eagle's wings. Eventually God teaches us to fly above the storm. God is so good to us!
We enjoy hearing from you. Please keep in touch. You will be in our prayers.
A Friend in Christ,
Rebecca A. Sexton
Rebecca:
Appreciate your providing me the entire set of The Good Newsletter to review and share with other Catholics. Following are serious difficulties fellow Catholics and I found in your publication.
The sources you rely on so heavily "these Bibles of anti-Catholicism" have long and often been shown to be false, error filled and hopelessly biased by all reputable historians. Using these books to represent Catholic belief is akin to evaluating Judaism with Mein Kampf and The Protocols of Zion. Chick Publications which you say you love has been condemned as hate propaganda by Pat Robertson's 700 club and every major Christian body. Why do you routinely use this same hate propaganda in your Good Newsletter? On this count alone FCFC loses out on any serious claim to truth.
FCFC’s prevalent use of transparent "strawman arguments" against Catholicism demonstrates your charges are groundless. What you claim the Catholic church teaches it plainly does not teach. This strawman tactic simply does violence to the truth.
Frequently the FCFC staff demonstrates lack of understanding the distinction between divine, essential, unchangeable Catholic teaching and mere cultural conventions. Many futile attempts are made to show "change" in Catholic teaching.
Superfluous insults against Catholicism permeate the pages of the Good Newsletter. Frankly we Catholics are glad FCFC practices this negativity as it turns most people off against FCFC's empty message.
Bible verses FCFC uses to identify the Catholic church as the "whore of Babylon" are bogus interpretation. These scriptures do not refer to the Catholic church but rather to ancient pagan Rome which persecuted believers. Babylon was the Christian code word for Pagan Rome. Almost all of your Protestant brethren’s biblical exegesis is totally opposite to FCFC’s. Why is all of Protestantism’s biblical interpretation wrong and a tiny fringe such as FCFC and other anti-Catholic ministries right?
In light of these few difficulties raised with FCFC's message (and this list doesn’t pretend to be complete) how can Christians embrace it?
Yours in Faith,
V.K. of Bowling Green, OH
P.S. Hope to comment on the on going debate between Robert Sungenis of CAI and FCFC, when it is completed. Thus far it's proven most enjoyable. I'd like to obtain tapes of your future public oral debate with Mr. Sungenis or others.
Dear V. K.,
We are always glad to hear from you. Concerning our sources, they vary from Encyclopedia's (Catholic or secular) to all kinds of writers from all walks of life. We have no set book other than the Bible as our final authority. We are aware of the allegations against Chick publications. We therefore quote nothing from him that we cannot substantiate with other historical writers. So far, Jack Chick has been very accurate on many different subjects. Although I do not know Jack Chick, I find the final message of his literature is that we all are sinners and need to be saved. As far as Pat Robertson goes, I do not trust anything that man says or does. It is no wonder that you respect his opinion since he has joined the Catholics for political advancement and the brotherhood of all mankind (another Gnostic teaching that infiltrated the church).
If you feel we have a "strawman argument", then show us where instead of just throwing accusations. I feel we answered the "unchangeable" church in this issue of the debate.
Your claim that the "Whore of Babylon" is Pagan Rome falls in light of chronological order in the Bible. Let's start by looking at Rev.11. John is told to measure the temple in Jerusalem. You have to remember that John wrote Revelations somewhere between 90-98 A.D. The temple was destroyed in 70 A.D. The temple that John was measuring hasn't been built yet! But don't fret, they are getting things ready now. When the temple is built, the Anti-Christ will take his seat and make war on the saints, the same Anti-Christ that is in Rev.13 (Compare Rev.11:7 with 13:7). Now remember V.K., the woman is riding the beast that makes war. If it was ancient Pagan Rome, then the anti-Christ came and left, the mark of the beast came and left, and Jesus returned already. Your interpretation does not correspond with Daniel's nor Ezekiel's prophecies. Perhaps it may be beneficial if we did an article concerning prophecy, since you seem so confused. You are correct that Babylon is a Christian code word for Rome. But that only proves our point.
If there are any other "difficulties", please feel to write us and let us know. But please be specific so we can better answer your complaints. It is our wish to earnestly contend for the faith.
Most Sincere,
Rebecca A. Sexton
Dear FCFC,
Recently I received some information and literature from your organization and this has inspired some interest in your organization. Please send some information and who I may contact because as the Ethiopian eunuch said to Philip when he was asked if he knew what he was reading, the eunuch said "Why, how can I, unless someone shows me?" (Acts 8:31) My sincere gratitude.
Sincerely in Christ,
T.F. of Toledo, OH
Dear T.F.,
Thank you for writing. The Ethiopian had not heard of Jesus or what he did. He was reading Isa.53 (which was a prophesy concerning Jesus' death). Philip opened up the meaning to him. Today we have the testimony of Jesus readily available. You need no man teach you if you have the Holy Spirit, as He will guide you into all truth. (I John 2:27) Our goal here at FCFC is to lay out the information for our readers to judge for themselves. We hope they go to the Bible or to the sources given in the newsletter or even go to the library and research it for themselves. Yes, it takes time and energy, but all information should be double-checked. If at anytime our readers disagree, we encourage them to write us and we will print the letter, with a response. We believe this gives everyone a fair chance to expound on the Word of God and hopefully grow a little wiser. We maintain that God is not a respecter of persons, therefore we all have something to offer in service to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. You will be in our prayers. Please write us soon.
Most Sincere,
Rebecca A. Sexton
Dear Diane and Rebecca,
Greetings in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
Here is the article on the Lord’s supper to which I made reference in my last letter. Feel free to use it in any way which you see fit. It was a joy to write, but it will be an even greater joy if it can be used to the glory of our Savior.
Keep up the good work! I enjoy and am enlightened by your newsletter.
Triumphing in Christ,
D.S. of Cresson, PA
Dear D.S.,
It is so good to hear from you. I have a letter (half written) that I keep meaning to send you. I think of you often and pray for you. How are you doing? By the sound of your feedback, I would assume very well. We would like to print your article, but we can’t in it’s entirety. What we will do is print it in installments. We feel it’s worth sharing with our readers. Please keep in touch, as you are in our hearts.
In His Grace,
Rebecca A. Sexton
WHY, WHY, WHY would Chuck Colson invite a Catholic lay person to address Prison Fellowship’s morning devotions when that lay Catholic stood “in the midst of a group of Protestant brethren engaged in a beautiful evangelical work of mercy and true Christian social action? I shared our common gospel and read an excerpt from Bernard of Clairvaux [a Roman Catholic “saint” paricularly known for his devotion to Mary and the infant Jesus], a member of our common family heritage.” I hope our readers that are in prison will be on guard when someone from the prison ministries comes to call. Try the spirit and see if it is of God. (I John 4:1) Anyone who would join with the Church of Rome, does not know Jesus Christ or His gospel. Maybe you will have a chance to share the gospel with one of them?
WHY,WHY, WHYdoes Billy Graham say that “God is in the midst of Eastern Orthodoxy and Roman Catholicism, not just Protestantism?” Could it be his masonic ties have something to do with his desire to unite with Rome?