I have been a member of various communities of online believers for maybe 20 or so years now. I discovered them when u first discovered the internet, and was brave enough to buy my first computer and dive in.
In that time, I have discovered two very important things. First, I have noticed that many, even a great many, Christians who in their own eyes are theologically correct, "who understands the truth and desire everyone else to understand the truth just as they do", can be done if the more obnoxious members of those communities. Knowing the truth I have discovered does not always equate with true undefiled religion. They are impatient... Rude... Insulting... And generally a pain to talk to.
The second thing I have discovered is that I am no exception. I too can skip into that "I am right and have the truth and you are wrong and believe as lie" mode... For what? To gloat? To feel better about myself... Better than others?
@Marymog Im not interested in arguing with you further. I don't think it benefits either of us. Have you read all the posts on this thread? Numbers 306,307,308 of mine reveal my perspective. I'm not arguing over theology with you. But history has revealed who I should trust. Your church's own writings reveal who I should trust.
Christianity isn't about being right or wrong. The gospel isn't about right it wrong. Don't get me wrong, truth matters. I didn't come into this thread to discuss theology. I finally wanted to comment on the historical fact that I'm the eyes of the Catholic system, going back over centuries, Protestants are not saved, for the very reasons you are currently attempting to prove. That the Catholic Church is there only true church. And Mary, that isn't what the gospel is about.
The greatest deception of the human mind in Christ's day was that a mere assent to the truth constitutes righteousness. In all human experience a theoretical knowledge of the truth has been proved to be insufficient for the saving of the soul. It does not bring forth the fruits of righteousness. A jealous regard for what is termed theological truth often accompanies a hatred of genuine truth as made manifest in life.
The darkest chapters of history are burdened with the record of crimes committed by bigoted religionists. The Pharisees claimed to be children of Abraham, and boasted of their possession of the oracles of God; yet these advantages did not preserve them from selfishness, malignity, greed for gain, and the basest hypocrisy. They thought themselves the greatest religionists of the world, but their so-called orthodoxy led them to crucify the Lord of glory.
The same danger still exists. Many take it for granted that they are Christians, simply because they subscribe to certain theological tenets. But they have not brought the truth into practical life. They have not believed and loved it, therefore they have not received the power and grace that come through sanctification of the truth. Men may profess faith in the truth; but if it does not make them sincere, kind, patient, forbearing, heavenly-minded, it is a curse to its possessors, and through their influence it is a curse to the world. DA 309.2 - DA 309.3