D
De_Maria
Guest
Hi,
As Catholics we frequently and correctly have to dispute the Protestant claim that we are “once saved always saved.” That is not the problem.
Unfortunately, due to our zeal, we frequently commit the opposite error. We claim that there is absolutely no absolute assurance of Salvation. That is a problem and seems to be a widely held belief. I have read this even in popular catechisms. However, I can find no foundation for this in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
And the Bible has examples of :
The Good Thief,
%between%
Elijah on his way to be picked up by the whirlwind spoke as one who was absolutely sure.
.
Any thoughts?
Sincerely,
De Maria
As Catholics we frequently and correctly have to dispute the Protestant claim that we are “once saved always saved.” That is not the problem.
Unfortunately, due to our zeal, we frequently commit the opposite error. We claim that there is absolutely no absolute assurance of Salvation. That is a problem and seems to be a widely held belief. I have read this even in popular catechisms. However, I can find no foundation for this in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
And the Bible has examples of :
The Good Thief,
%between%
Coming from Jesus, that would seem to be as absolute as it gets.Luke 23:43
Jesus answered him, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.”
Elijah on his way to be picked up by the whirlwind spoke as one who was absolutely sure.
Paul , in most of his letters seemed not to be sure, but at the end of his life he seemed to be absolutely sure of receiving a crown ( of salvation).2 Kings 2
9 When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me, what can I do for you before I am taken from you?”
“Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit,” Elisha replied.
.
If we look to Catholic History, St. Catherine of Siena, St. Theresa of Avila, and St. Faustina seemed to receive absolute assurance. And so did the the children of Fatima.2 Timothy 4
7I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day–and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
Any thoughts?
Sincerely,
De Maria