This blog will explore the scriptures, textual criticism, patristic writings, systematic theology, and traditions within the historical boundaries of the catholic church. By "catholic", I refer not to Roman Catholicism but to the framework established by early church fathers like Irenaeus, Cyprian, Augustine, Chrysostom, and Jerome. We will learn from their teachings, respecting their authority as probable and revering their contributions, but scripture will hold ultimate authority when their writings diverge from its clear meaning and intent, as the word of God is certain and supreme.
Scripture will be approached in two layers. The first layer comprises the 66 books of the Bible, which establish the doctrines of God's word. The second layer includes the apocryphal or deuterocanonical books, received as God’s word where they align with the primary canon and valued for their historical role in fostering godliness and piety. Following St. Jerome’s distinction, I view the first canon as doctrinal and the second as instructive for piety, potentially referring to the latter as sacred scripture when it agrees with the former.
The scriptures in their original languages (Hebrew and Aramaic for the Old Testament, and Greek for the New Testament) carry greater authority than translations in cases of discrepancy. After studying textual variants among the Textus Receptus, Majority Text, and Nestle-Aland text, I am convinced that the Textus Receptus is a masterpiece given to the Western church, requiring only some adjustments to align with textual evidence rather than replacement.
My goal is to expound Christian truths as revealed in scripture, church tradition, and historical creeds, avoiding sectarianism. I aim to highlight areas where every tradition needs reformation, encouraging Christians across denominations without suggesting that salvation hinges on joining a specific group. May the Lord guide me to bless His people and protect me from causing harm to His sheep.
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