Bible Study - BSF International

[rocketrob]

I have attended BSF for 10 years and love it! BSF lead me back to the Catholic Church.

So what can we, as Catholics, do to provide this fellowship with a bible study?

Cavin’s Great Adventure is wonderful. But BSF is a deeply personal relationship with God. Clavin’s is a bible lecture. BSF is a study with personal application, and it does not go against the Magistrarium in interpreting scripture. It asks you to find God’s Voice personalized for you. Imagine that! The Creator of the universe, His Son and His Spirit speaking directly and personally to you!

jas2625,
It is great that BSF led you back to the Catholic Faith. I myself was raised protestant before becoming a Catholic ten years ago. After that conversion, I attended BSF for several years before finding the Cavin’s Great Adventure Timeline (and the multiple follow-on Great Adventure series) being also taught in my neighborhood.

For me, there were two main recurring flaws (besides the issue mentioned below) with BSF that were frustrating and hard to overlook: 1.) The concept of Sola Scriptura (Scripture alone) that was continually pushed. 2.) The concept of ‘Once Save Always Saved’ that was also repeatedly taught. These concepts are fundamentally at odds with the teaching of the Catholic Church.

When I discovered that the Cavins’ Timeline was being taught nearby, I was excited to give it a try, and I’m very glad that I did. It is Scripture study from a solidly Catholic perspective, and I believe it is definitely one answer to Catholic bible fellowship that you mention above. The first year through the entire bible timeline is very intense and a lot of material is covered. It is geared to getting you familiar with the entire chronological timeline of salvation history, and I can see why you may have felt that it was more bible study than application. Follow on studies occur at a much slower pace, and there is more opportunity for exploring personal application in the lesson questions.

I do admit that the Cavins’ Timeline lesson questions are not yet as developed (or ‘mature’) as the BSF questions, but for me, the solidly Catholic presentation and opportunity to fellowship with fellow local Catholics more than makes up for this deficiency.

I would encourage you to give it another try.

Leadership is not my issue. If God calls me to lead, I hope I hear His voice.

This will never be an issue for you in BSF. I specifically asked the BSF leader of my region if Catholics could be small group leaders. He confirmed that the answer was a definite ‘NO.’ There is a pledge that leaders must make which goes above and beyond any creed or profession of faith found in mainline faith traditions. I was given a few reasons that, as a Catholic, I would not be allowed be a leader. One was the need for unity among the leaders. Another was for ‘my own protection’ because making the leadership pledge was perceived as requiring me to violate the principles of my Catholic Faith. Interestingly enough, if taken literally, the statements in that pledge would disqualify several protestant faith traditions from leadership roles as well.

Sincerely,
rocketrob

 

[Scripture_Warri]

I have read all of the preceding comments with interest. I facilitate a Bible Study group at my small Parish. When I first floated the idea of a Bible Study, the idea was met with the precept that "Catholics won’t’, but we finally began amidst much skepticism.

Due to VERY limited resources we could not afford the course materials of most quality Catholic Bible Study programs i.e. Scott Hahn’s or others mentioned in this thread. At first, I created the lesson plans based on apoligetic topics, and the response was quite good. However, I later found a Catholic Bible Study program that was priced right. Free! And I liked the materials and the method of approach. We began with the “Salvation History” course and all of the participants are enthusiastic about it.

Anyone looking for an excellent Bible Study should look at www.agapebiblestudy.com. It is a very comprehensive site with numerous courses, well reference sourced, and truely Catholic. It is well suited for self-study and/or faciiltated group study. We have been using these materials for over a year now, and I believe that every member of our small group (a dozen families) would endorse it. Everyone in the group has commented on how much it has helped them to better understand scripture and the Church’s teachings.

 

[jcb4105]

If I left every study about Christ during my entire life, due to ridicule,I would never have any faith in what the Lord is teaching me. We are to be thick skinned as Christians(Catholics) and because those leadership roles are not available to us at BSF, is no reason, to turn away and discount the power of the study. Christ is the reason every member is at the study(catholic or not). I have been a member @ bsf for 11 years and it has brought me closer to Christ than I have ever been. I love the Catholic church as well as the bsf study and I have to be flexible in both situations. There is no reason for any of us to drive possible followers of Christ away just because some weak rules exist. I call the bsf leaders on it quite often and they respect me for doing so. Besides, there is no way I am going to leave the study or the church. Peace & Christ is the only Way.

 

[mdcpensive1]

If I left every study about Christ during my entire life, due to ridicule,I would never have any faith in what the Lord is teaching me. We are to be thick skinned as Christians(Catholics) and because those leadership roles are not available to us at BSF, is no reason, to turn away and discount the power of the study. Christ is the reason every member is at the study(catholic or not). I have been a member @ bsf for 11 years and it has brought me closer to Christ than I have ever been. I love the Catholic church as well as the bsf study and I have to be flexible in both situations. There is no reason for any of us to drive possible followers of Christ away just because some weak rules exist. I call the bsf leaders on it quite often and they respect me for doing so. Besides, there is no way I am going to leave the study or the church. Peace & Christ is the only Way.

Hello there jcb4105
It is my pleasure to talk to you. I have friends that have been bsf and some like it and others don’t. It depends on the leaders and what they are doing.
I can only speak for myself in that it is not for me. If I want my greatest bang for the buck or as much as I can get for the limited time I have to devote to scripture then I use other resources. Why? It is because I don’t want to have to sift through things that may not be of the deposit of faith that they are trying to teach. I know it is supposed to be non denominational, but Christ did make a denomination that He gave His word to protect from all error in doctrine and morals. The Catholic faith is the only one that can encompass all the passages in scripture into a systematic belief. Others may have to skip over passages or give a spin on them to fit their belief tradition. I don’t want to be in the position of having the wrong interpetation given to me. But that is just me and I can appreciate the friendships that develop in the bsf groups. That cannot be discounted because they are all brothers and sisters in Christ.
Some day if you feel called to do it as I was, be a leader of a bible study at your parish. Teaching the truth is what Christ calls us to do if that is the gift you have been given. You have been involved for many years so you have much to share.

Let me know how things are going.

mdcpensive1

 

[kel123]

Non-denominational does not mean Protestant. It means what it means. That the Bible Study does not limit itself to a denomination but is open to all, across all denominations and to people of no denomination. It means the Bible alone is looked at. Learning the Bible is a wonderful thing. It is worth anyone’s time and effort.

I think that it is absolutely fabulous that the Chinese Government has invited Bible Study Fellowship into China and supports Chinese citizens attending BSF. It is not done in secret. The Chinese Government actually likes that the Bible alone is taught and not doctrines and dogmas. The Chinese Government likes the fact that people all over the world are studying the same scripture every week and in the same format. It is a wonderful honor that has been given to BSF. It likes the fact that people within BSF are trained to be leaders.

 

[kel123]

I would like to respond to the person who said they were quizzed by the Bible Leader because they were not allowed to have any beliefs contrary to the church that was hosting the BSF. BSF is a worldwide organization with headquarters in Texas. They rent a church building and have no obligation whatsoever to believe what the church believes. I have attended BSF in a Baptist Church and in an Episcopal Church. They are our host church and have no (name removed by moderator)ut into anything that is taught or how leaders are chosen.

 

[juliamajor]

Different Bible studies are skewed to their particular denomination. There is nothing wrong or sinister about this. It’s basically how the scripture is viewed by individual beliefs.They each have a point of view. Non-denominational means Protestant-no matter what anybody says.If I wanted a Jewish point of view on Hebrew scripture I would go to Jewish Bible study. If you want an Orthodox view you go to an Orthodox one.Catholic- to Catholic Etc. Etc.I’ve been through many Bible studies and none are neutral. So take that into consideration when joining a bible study.

 

[mdcpensive1]

I would like to respond to the person who said they were quizzed by the Bible Leader because they were not allowed to have any beliefs contrary to the church that was hosting the BSF. BSF is a worldwide organization with headquarters in Texas. They rent a church building and have no obligation whatsoever to believe what the church believes. I have attended BSF in a Baptist Church and in an Episcopal Church. They are our host church and have no (name removed by moderator)ut into anything that is taught or how leaders are chosen.

Hello kell123, welcome to the CA forums. It is a pleasure to talk to you and I hope we can talk on other threads in the future.

You have said that there is no (name removed by moderator)ut into how leaders are chosen. All that I have heard from many people is that if you are Catholic you will not be chosen. If this is the case then there is an issue with non-denominalism.

Another issue I have that you may hopefully be able to address is that to fully understand what Our Lord is telling us about Himself and His Church has much to do with understanding the history of salvation in both the Old and New Covenants. When it is not understood that there is a relationship between the Old and New Covenants assumptions can be made that are incorrect and that can lead to other problems. Another area is that of the Chosen people, the Jews and how they relate to the Church today. If you can shine some light on these areas I and possibly others would be greatful.

mdcpensive1

 

[Xavierlives]

Hello kell123, welcome to the CA forums. It is a pleasure to talk to you and I hope we can talk on other threads in the future.

You have said that there is no (name removed by moderator)ut into how leaders are chosen. All that I have heard from many people is that if you are Catholic you will not be chosen. If this is the case then there is an issue with non-denominalism.

Another issue I have that you may hopefully be able to address is that to fully understand what Our Lord is telling us about Himself and His Church has much to do with understanding the history of salvation in both the Old and New Covenants. When it is not understood that there is a relationship between the Old and New Covenants assumptions can be made that are incorrect and that can lead to other problems. Another area is that of the Chosen people, the Jews and how they relate to the Church today. If you can shine some light on these areas I and possibly others would be greatful.

mdcpensive1

I guess I should first explain how I stumbled upon this forum. I am in a BSF class and was looking for the BSF website. Out of habit, I used a popular web-search engine, and this thread popped up number 2.

Although the thread is now pretty old and maybe lost some traction, I should say I think it is still relevant if only for a few key issues. First I should make some disclaimers: 1. I’ve been in BSF for one year; 2. While I’d like to say I could answer the ins and outs of their structure, I’m not privy to much.

Now to why I think this is relevant. I have never been one to shy away from confrontation. I think we see in the Bible, Jesus front and center, confronting misconceptions about the way his people were believing. In my application of this, I’ve attended Catholic services, I’ve attended LDS services, I’ve attended Baptist services, and numerous others. While I have never ventured beyond a Christ-centered faith, I’ve found that these moments in my life have only strengthened my faith because of the internal confrontation. As to an External confrontation, at these types of thing? Never. Not at LDS, not at BSF, not anywhere. I say this because, I have seen first hand, BSF leaders reigning in the “non-denominational” almost out of rote. In the current study I made a distinction between the Bible and the beliefs of the Hindu and I was immediately shut down with “we don’t get into denominational differences.” Then we all kind of laughed when he realized we weren’t talking about a denomination. Afterwards, I did realize though, that non-Christians do attend (and we actually have a Jew who attends another small group) and bringing in other world religions could be considered bad-mouthing by a person considering Christianity. Which, brings me full circle in a way to my point, that while BSF has a policy of not having denomination discussions, some of these seem to be really brought into focus when they are not discussed. There is never a discussion about the Pope or the Prophet or the Pastor or the leadership of the church. I’m okay with it because I know I can supplement my study. I know that BSF is nothing more than Bible Study Fellowship.

I would recommend it to any person with a desire in their heart to study the Bible and fellowship with other Christians. If your desire is to teach or lead BSF, I just can’t see how they would object as long as you agree to abide by the principle of non-denominational discussion. The fact is though, I find the leader to be the person who speaks the least (other than reading the question and picking someone) so I am not sure I would want that responsibility.

The other issue is more of an inquiry. I quoted this message because I’m not sure why this was inserted in this forum message. I find this subject matter interesting and would like to find the original thread to discuss it.

---

Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words. – St. Francis of Assisi

 

[mdcpensive1]

I guess I should first explain how I stumbled upon this forum. I am in a BSF class and was looking for the BSF website. Out of habit, I used a popular web-search engine, and this thread popped up number 2.

Although the thread is now pretty old and maybe lost some traction, I should say I think it is still relevant if only for a few key issues. First I should make some disclaimers: 1. I’ve been in BSF for one year; 2. While I’d like to say I could answer the ins and outs of their structure, I’m not privy to much.

 

[rocketrob]

If your desire is to teach or lead BSF, I just can’t see how they would object as long as you agree to abide by the principle of non-denominational discussion.

Just so we’re all clear on this one thing concerning BSF (now BSFI), Catholics CANNOT be small group leaders. I know because I once explicitly asked why not.

Small group leaders are required to sign a statement of faith that can be seen in its entirety here: bsfinternational.org/Home/StatementOfFaith/tabid/54/Default.aspx

The very first of the 14 paragraphs or statements of faith reads as follows:

1. We believe that the sixty-six books of Holy Scripture as originally given are in their entirety the Word of God verbally inspired and wholly without error in all that they declare and, therefore, are the supreme and final authority of faith and life.

No Catholic who is true to his or her faith can sign this pledge in good conscience.

rocketrob

 

[jazzno]

Yes, Rocketrob, you have made it abundantly clear that Catholics cannot, repeat CANNOT, be leaders in BSF. But this program is a one-on-one with God. I have been in BSF for 13 years, am a cradle Catholic with 13 years of Catholic schools (many with the Jesuits), and I have never felt so close to God. I am female. I cannot become a Catholic priest. Does this mean I should leave the Church? Just because Catholics are not asked to be leaders you continue to question this wonderful program based on leadership issues. What are you afraid of? Why do you use the issue of leadership as a deterrent of something that brings others so close to God?

Further, in regards to

1. We believe that the sixty-six books of Holy Scripture as originally given are in their entirety the Word of God verbally inspired and wholly without error in all that they declare and, therefore, are the supreme and final authority of faith and life.

Yes, there are 66 books. But as Catholics we are blessed with 7 more that were abandoned for probably political reasons. What a loss for others! What is the big deal?

I have not been asked to serve in leadership because of my faith, I recognize that. But do you know what leadership in BSF entails? Lots and lots of work, patience, dedication and selflessness. I await God’s direction, not that of BSF leadership, not that of anyone who has never participated in BSF, not that of anyone who would keep others from a wonderful, personal one-on-one with God! Aren’t there enough distractions from God in this world to make these silly issues deterrents?
My advice: come and see!

 

[Xavierlives]

No Catholic who is true to his or her faith can sign this pledge in good conscience.

rocketrob

Hmm… now I am curious. Which part is objectionable? That you have more books?

 

[rocketrob]

jazzno,
I’m glad you’re getting something out of BSF. The only reason that I made it abundantly clear about the leadership question is because over the long period of time that this thread has been out there, people continue to question if this is really the case.

I also attended BSF for several years. The only thing I’m afraid of is that Catholics are being constantly exposed to anti-Catholic teachings such as Sola Scriptura, Once Saved Always Saved, the insistence on personal interpretation of Scripture without the guidance of the Magisterium of the Church, and a symbolic vs. real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. What’s more, the presentation of the Catholic side of these issues is often shut down in small group discussions. These topics are a big deal for Catholics…not silly deterrents.

This is not just my opinion, but rather a fairly well thought out opinion shared by many leaders in the Catholic Church. You can refer to the following link for more detailed information. It would seem that my thoughts are not far off from those of Steven Ray: catholic.com/thisrock/2007/0701fea5.asp

This link may also serve as a good starting point for the other recent poster who wonders what is wrong with statement of belief #1.

To quote from that article:

But there is such a thing as an ecumenical Bible study that doesn’t allow knowledgeable Catholics to participate in leadership or where the Catholic perspective is not equally presented and discussed with respect. In a truly ecumenical Bible study, the Catholic interpretation and teaching is not treated as substandard or heretical.

Personally, I have found much more fruit by switching over to Catholic based bible study programs. If you are developing good True Catholic fruit in BSF, great…more power to you.

I just want to make sure that the facts are kept straight in this thread.

rocketrob

 

[coracobb]

I was invited to join a Bible Study this fall through BSF International. I went to the informational meeting this morning at a local Lutheran church. Being Catholic I felt like a fish out of water. They talked about how it is was a non denominational study and how it is a study of what the bible says to you as an individual. The whole thing didn’t sit well with me. Can anyone tell me their thoughts?

I have read several posts to this question. All that I read have something I understand and or agree with completely. I will try to explain. I am a convert to Catholisism, and as a convert of about five years my first thought to your question was, there is no such thing as a non denominational anything. All churches have their own set of beliefs and that is what they will teach, even if they do water their belief down some.

Believe what Cari said about her four yr old having to be untaught. As a protastant church they cannot or will not teach the proper place of St Peter. They will leave out so very much of what I believe God intended for us to see in order to have our faith fulfilled and have it be much richer that any protestant faith.

TOM 317 you are right.

Richardeekw, even firmly rooted Catholics may be quite disturbed by the lack of real teachings from a protestant church. I am not trying to be negative about them because I know there are many strong protestants who Love the Lord as much as any Catholics, but I know from experience that the Bible has opened up to me since I converted in a way I could have never imagined.

RedSoxFan, keep on praying your rosary.

I will say that a protestant who is firmly grounded in her faith could attend that study and know exactly where the empty spots are but most devoted protestants would not be able to see it.

I am fully Catholic now but I am lacking in a lot of areas of knowledge and understanding, but praise God I am learning and growing.

Cora

 

[mdcpensive1]

Yes, Rocketrob, you have made it abundantly clear that Catholics cannot, repeat CANNOT, be leaders in BSF. But this program is a one-on-one with God. I have been in BSF for 13 years, am a cradle Catholic with 13 years of Catholic schools (many with the Jesuits), and I have never felt so close to God. I am female. I cannot become a Catholic priest. Does this mean I should leave the Church? Just because Catholics are not asked to be leaders you continue to question this wonderful program based on leadership issues. What are you afraid of? Why do you use the issue of leadership as a deterrent of something that brings others so close to God?

Further, in regards to

1. We believe that the sixty-six books of Holy Scripture as originally given are in their entirety the Word of God verbally inspired and wholly without error in all that they declare and, therefore, are the supreme and final authority of faith and life.

Jazzno, it is wonderful that you are learning about being closer to Christ. That is part of our mission here on earth, to always come closer. The problem I have with BSF is that they intentionally exclude the most intimate way of coming closer to Christ which is through the Eucharist. This is the summit of our belief as Catholics. To exclude something like this is hard to fathom when they say the BSF format is so good. Can you tell us what BSF teaches that is greater than learning about this??? This question is not posed to be argumentative, but as an example of importance can be ignored that is a source of graces necessary for our salvation.

As a member of the Body of Christ by Baptism, it is wonderful to lead people to Christ, but what better way to lead them than to His real presence.

mdcpensive1

 

[jazzno]

Jazzno, it is wonderful that you are learning about being closer to Christ. That is part of our mission here on earth, to always come closer. The problem I have with BSF is that they intentionally exclude the most intimate way of coming closer to Christ which is through the Eucharist. This is the summit of our belief as Catholics. To exclude something like this is hard to fathom when they say the BSF format is so good. Can you tell us what BSF teaches that is greater than learning about this??? This question is not posed to be argumentative, but as an example of importance can be ignored that is a source of graces necessary for our salvation.

As a member of the Body of Christ by Baptism, it is wonderful to lead people to Christ, but what better way to lead them than to His real presence.

mdcpensive1

Hi, mdcpensive 1,
The celebration of the Eucharist is more an argument with the Protestant denominations rather than BSF. I agree with you wholeheartedly about the Eucharist being the foundation of our wonderful faith and Catholic dogma. And it is through my studies in BSF—not BSF itself—that I came to the full realization about why my faith is so rich and special. BSF does not teach, it invites the individual “come and you will see” (John 1:39) and to be quickened by the Holy Spirit.

Nicodemus was a rich, well educated man deeply versed in scriptures who came to see Jesus under the cloak of night. Jesus talked to his heart, rather than his head, and told him about the Spirit. It wasn’t until Jesus’ death that he stepped out in faith. “You search the scriptures, because you think you have eternal life through them…” Jesus told the Pharisees (Jn. 5:39) Yet, the outcast Samaritan woman, a Gentile, asked for the living water and recognized Jesus as the Messiah. Knowledge without the Spirit is meaningless to God.

My Catholic background taught me “the most intimate way of coming closer to Christ… is through the Eucharist.” Through the birth of the Spirit in my soul, my studies in BSF have lead me a deep, rich realization of my relationship with God and His Son, and my Catholic faith. I am humbled when I receive Christ in the Eucharist.

When we start prayer in BSF, I cross myself as is our tradition. I am usually the only one in the room who does so. It invites God into my studies, but also sends a message and an invitation. I am always surprised at how many women come up to me privately, and share a personal story. This is when we share beliefs, and hearts are receptive.

 

[mdcpensive1]

Hi, mdcpensive 1,
The celebration of the Eucharist is more an argument with the Protestant denominations rather than BSF. I agree with you wholeheartedly about the Eucharist being the foundation of our wonderful faith and Catholic dogma. And it is through my studies in BSF—not BSF itself—that I came to the full realization about why my faith is so rich and special. BSF does not teach, it invites the individual “come and you will see” (John 1:39) and to be quickened by the Holy Spirit.

Nicodemus was a rich, well educated man deeply versed in scriptures who came to see Jesus under the cloak of night. Jesus talked to his heart, rather than his head, and told him about the Spirit. It wasn’t until Jesus’ death that he stepped out in faith. “You search the scriptures, because you think you have eternal life through them…” Jesus told the Pharisees (Jn. 5:39) Yet, the outcast Samaritan woman, a Gentile, asked for the living water and recognized Jesus as the Messiah. Knowledge without the Spirit is meaningless to God.

My Catholic background taught me “the most intimate way of coming closer to Christ… is through the Eucharist.” Through the birth of the Spirit in my soul, my studies in BSF have lead me a deep, rich realization of my relationship with God and His Son, and my Catholic faith. I am humbled when I receive Christ in the Eucharist.

When we start prayer in BSF, I cross myself as is our tradition. I am usually the only one in the room who does so. It invites God into my studies, but also sends a message and an invitation. I am always surprised at how many women come up to me privately, and share a personal story. This is when we share beliefs, and hearts are receptive.

It is good to know that making the sign of the cross is something that you feel comfortable with in the midst of others that do not. I applaud your faith for that. Scripture is something that is very complex and can be understood on two levels. On the literal level we can know what things have happened. It is also written from the allegorical level where God is telling us something about His covenental relationship with us. Combining the two gives us a more complete understanding.

I would like to ask you if you can explain something to me if you may. Since the Bible is a Catholic book written by Catholics (in the NT) and since the Catholic Church has been here for 2,000 years as Christ’s sacrament of our salvation continually reflecting and understanding more deeply Christ’s purpose and Grace, how can a Catholic in BSF not be afraid of receiving doctrine that is not of the deposit of faith given to the apostles. I would be terribly afraid that I would be given something that would cloud the correct understanding of my faith. But this is just me.

I can appreciate your desire to know more and to share with friends. That is something that is good. I also understand that my own pastor when he gives a homily that it many times sounds like it can be from a non-Catholic church also. Can you help me with this??

mdcpensive1

 

[jazzno]

It is good to know that making the sign of the cross is something that you feel comfortable with in the midst of others that do not. I applaud your faith for that. Scripture is something that is very complex and can be understood on two levels. On the literal level we can know what things have happened. It is also written from the allegorical level where God is telling us something about His covenental relationship with us. Combining the two gives us a more complete understanding.

I would like to ask you if you can explain something to me if you may. Since the Bible is a Catholic book written by Catholics (in the NT) and since the Catholic Church has been here for 2,000 years as Christ’s sacrament of our salvation continually reflecting and understanding more deeply Christ’s purpose and Grace, how can a Catholic in BSF not be afraid of receiving doctrine that is not of the deposit of faith given to the apostles. I would be terribly afraid that I would be given something that would cloud the correct understanding of my faith. But this is just me.

I can appreciate your desire to know more and to share with friends. That is something that is good. I also understand that my own pastor when he gives a homily that it many times sounds like it can be from a non-Catholic church also. Can you help me with this??

mdcpensive1

mdcpensive1,
Before I try to answer your question, I’d like to mention something that I am hearing in your posts: “Zeal for your house consumes me.” Jn. 2:17, Ps. 69:10. You have a passionate defense for Christ’s body, the Catholic Church. That is a blessing from God’s Spirit. But is the Spirit also calling you to witness something more to others, like the Word of God? You have the dogma down, and a passionate adherence to the “deposit of faith given to the apostles”. But I invite you to take scripture one step further. You mention that God’s word (Scripture) is understood on a literal and allegorical level. I invite you to hear, witness, experience God’s 2000 year old, 4000 year old (6000 year old??) word through God’s Spirit. God will “refine [you] like silver and test [you] like gold” (Zec. 13:9) if you allow Him. Again, your zeal speaks very loudly. Is God calling you for something more? And if you can find a more in depth way to experience the Spirit in study other than BSF, please let me know.

Suggestion: If you haven’t done so, read “Rome Sweet Home” and “Lamb’s Supper” by Scott Hahn. Scott is a former Presbyterian minister who was very anti-Catholic and stumbled upon our Church through the question of birth control. His “Lamb’s Supper” tries to explain Revelations through the Mass. (God works you up and down His washboard on this one.)

Your question is a warning to me, and I recognize it: how do I know I am receiving the doctrine of faith given to the apostles? I don’t always, so I reference Catholic teachings, especially those that are Ex Cathedra, the New American Bible, etc. There is always the danger of “interpreting”, so again I reference back to Magisterium. Funny thing, and certainly dangerous, is that in my Catholic group studies I hear people talk about the worship of Mary. When I call them on it, they are surprised and sometimes confused at what they have said. On occasions a non-Catholic will “correct’ me in something I have said, especially about the Holy Spirit. So back to my references, and this web site. I learn and grow. And I ask the Holy Spirit to keep me focused on what is pleasing to the Father and His Son.

Here is a wonderful website by the Irish Jesuits called Sacred Space: sacredspace.ie/
Go to English and follow the prayers (Move on) past the “ Glory Be.” Click on Amen. At the very bottom in tiny font you will find “Living Space”. Click here for wonderful insights into God’s word. What treasures!

I hear a calling, my friend. Have you asked God to reveal His special plan for you? Keep me posted.

 

[mdcpensive1]

mdcpensive1,
Before I try to answer your question, I’d like to mention something that I am hearing in your posts: “Zeal for your house consumes me.” Jn. 2:17, Ps. 69:10. You have a passionate defense for Christ’s body, the Catholic Church. That is a blessing from God’s Spirit. But is the Spirit also calling you to witness something more to others, like the Word of God? You have the dogma down, and a passionate adherence to the “deposit of faith given to the apostles”. But I invite you to take scripture one step further. You mention that God’s word (Scripture) is understood on a literal and allegorical level. I invite you to hear, witness, experience God’s 2000 year old, 4000 year old (6000 year old??) word through God’s Spirit. God will “refine [you] like silver and test [you] like gold” (Zec. 13:9) if you allow Him. Again, your zeal speaks very loudly. Is God calling you for something more? And if you can find a more in depth way to experience the Spirit in study other than BSF, please let me know.

Suggestion: If you haven’t done so, read “Rome Sweet Home” and “Lamb’s Supper” by Scott Hahn. Scott is a former Presbyterian minister who was very anti-Catholic and stumbled upon our Church through the question of birth control. His “Lamb’s Supper” tries to explain Revelations through the Mass. (God works you up and down His washboard on this one.)

Your question is a warning to me, and I recognize it: how do I know I am receiving the doctrine of faith given to the apostles? I don’t always, so I reference Catholic teachings, especially those that are Ex Cathedra, the New American Bible, etc. There is always the danger of “interpreting”, so again I reference back to Magisterium. Funny thing, and certainly dangerous, is that in my Catholic group studies I hear people talk about the worship of Mary. When I call them on it, they are surprised and sometimes confused at what they have said. On occasions a non-Catholic will “correct’ me in something I have said, especially about the Holy Spirit. So back to my references, and this web site. I learn and grow. And I ask the Holy Spirit to keep me focused on what is pleasing to the Father and His Son.

Here is a wonderful website by the Irish Jesuits called Sacred Space: sacredspace.ie/
Go to English and follow the prayers (Move on) past the “ Glory Be.” Click on Amen. At the very bottom in tiny font you will find “Living Space”. Click here for wonderful insights into God’s word. What treasures!

I hear a calling, my friend. Have you asked God to reveal His special plan for you? Keep me posted.

It is good that you are someone who is strong enough in the faith to not be misled in doctrine or other important aspects of the true faith. I pray that you will always be strong. Many people both Catholic and not have been misled by lack of learning, misrepresentation or just plain errors in their faith causing them to believe some very disturbing things. But that is beside the point of this discussion.

I have read the books you have mentioned plus more and various titles and tape series. But the question that keeps coming to me is that which you allude to in saying “refined”, “God is calling you to something more”, and “an in depth way of experiencing the Spirit”.
These three expressions of what you are learning comes alive to me not only through scripture, but in the development of my spiritual life.
One thing I am sorrowful about for my non-Catholic friends is the dependence on the reading of scripture to the detriment of developing a spiritual life through a personal type of spirituality. For myself, I have a combination of Ignatian and Carmelite spirituality which brings me closer to Jesus and gives me direction in my goal of unity with Him. I feel for me that just a BSF would be holding me back from the fullness of all that I was able to do. I hope I am verbalizing this so you can understand my concern.
If this is troubling for me then it can be troubling for others.

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