Then why did Pope Clement XI. in 1713 condemn the doctrine that the Bible is for all to read?

He did not condemn the doctrine that it is good to read Scripture. He condemned the theory that it is necessary to do so in order to attain Christian knowledge. Christ’s method was to establish a teaching Church, it being necessary to be taught by that Church. He did not order the Apostles to multiply and scatter copies of the Scriptures. If the reading of Scripture were necessary to salvation, what of the immense number of Christians through all the centuries prior to the invention of printing, when it was impossible to transcribe by hand sufficient copies for the multitudes? Could Christ make the possibility of His religion dependent upon the invention of the printing machine? And did He intend His religon to remain forever impossible as far as the illiterate are concerned? It is absurd to say that His religion essentially depends upon a printed book. The Pope wisely condemned the proposition that the reading of Scripture is necessary to all. Every reasonable man would condemn so unreasonable a proposition.

Radio Replies Volume 1 by Rev. Dr. Leslie Rumble MSC and Rev. Charles Mortimer Carty

🙏 PayPal Donation Appreciated

Select a Donation Option (USD)

Enter Donation Amount (USD)

Boost your faith with the help of the Catholic book we suggest below. It is a helpful resource that answers a lot of questions and can be shared with family and friends. #CommissionsEarned

The Case for Catholicism - Answers to Classic and Contemporary Protestant Objections

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you.
Scroll to Top