Catholic Apologetics Scripture Cheat Sheet Page

Capturing scripture references for some of the most debated Catholic doctrines and teachings.

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Welcome to our guide aka “cheat sheet” on Catholic doctrines

Welcome to our guide aka “cheat sheet” on Catholic doctrines. Here, we explore key beliefs and practices through important Bible references. This resource is designed to help you understand the foundational concepts of Catholicism, such as salvation, sacraments like baptism and the Eucharist, and the roles of saints and church authority. Whether you’re new to Catholicism or looking to deepen your knowledge, this guide provides clear insights into how these doctrines are rooted in Scripture. To use this resource*, simply navigate through the topics listed to find detailed explanations and scriptural references for each doctrine.

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Scripture and Tradition

The Critical Role of Oral Tradition and Apostolic Guidance in Interpreting Scripture

Beyond the Bible: John 21:25 notes that not everything Jesus did is recorded in the Bible.

Oral Tradition: Paul references the importance of oral tradition in several letters, including 2 Thessalonians 2:14-15, 2 Timothy 2:2, 1 Corinthians 11:2, and 1 Thessalonians 2:13.

Apostolic Tradition: Acts 2:42 shows early Christians adhering to apostolic tradition.

Complexity of Scripture: 2 Peter 3:16 warns that the Bible can be hard to understand and easily misinterpreted.

More on Oral Tradition: 2 John 1:12 and 3 John 1:13-14 further emphasize the role of oral communication.

Interpretation Warnings: 2 Peter 1:20-21 advises against personal interpretation of the Bible.

Need for Guidance: Acts 8:31 and Hebrews 5:12 highlight the need for guidance in interpreting scriptures.

Eucharist

  • Deep theological roots and implications of the Eucharist:
    • Matthew 26:26-27; Mark 14:22,24; Luke 22:19-20; 1 Corinthians 10:24-25; 1 Corinthians 11:26-30 depict the institution of the Eucharist and its significance as a covenant.
    • John 6:32-58 provides a lengthy discourse on the life-giving power of the Eucharist.
    • Genesis 14:18; Psalm 110:4; Hebrews 7:1-17 draw connections to Melchizedek, enhancing the typological understanding of Christ as a priest-king.

Baptism of Infants

  • Biblical support for baptizing all, including children:
    • Acts 2:38-39; Acts 16:15, 16:33, 18:8; 1 Corinthians 1:16 suggest baptism should be administered to entire households, implying children are included.
    • John 3:5; Romans 6:4 emphasize the necessity of baptism for entering the Kingdom of God.
    • Colossians 2:11-12 likens baptism to circumcision, traditionally performed on infants as per Genesis 17:12.

Mary

  • Key scriptures related to the life and veneration of Mary:
    • Genesis 5:24; Hebrews 11:5; 2 Kings 2:1-13 provide biblical precedents for bodily assumption, referenced in relation to Mary.
    • Luke 1:28, 1:42-48 recount the Annunciation and Mary’s acceptance of her role, highlighting her blessedness.
    • John 2:1-5 illustrates Mary’s intercessory capacity at the Wedding at Cana, initiating Jesus’ first miracle.

Purgatory: A State of Purification

  • Concept: Purgatory is where the Holy Spirit purifies those who are saved but still need to repent for their sins. While Christ removes eternal guilt at justification, further personal sanctification may occur in purgatory if necessary.

Biblical References:

  • 1 Corinthians 3:15: “He himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames.”
  • Examples of Temporal Punishment: Luke 12:59, 1 Peter 1:7, Matthew 5:25-26
  • God’s Discipline: Hebrews 12:6-11 describes the painful discipline from God.
  • Unforgiven Sins: Matthew 12:32 speaks of sins that won’t be forgiven now or in the future.
  • Purity Required for Heaven: Revelation 21:27 states that nothing unclean will enter heaven.
  • Perfection in Heaven: Hebrews 12:23 mentions souls in heaven “having been made perfect.”
  • Suffering for Others: Colossians 1:24 discusses enduring “extra” suffering.

Relics

  • 2 Kings 13:20-21: Elisha’s bones revive a dead man (1st class relic)
  • Matthew 9:20-22: A woman is cured by touching Jesus’ garment (2nd class relic)
  • Acts 19:11-12: Handkerchiefs and aprons that touched Paul’s body heal the sick (3rd class relic)
  • Acts 5:15-16: Peter’s shadow is believed to heal the sick

Concept of Relics

In the Catholic tradition, relics are physical objects that have a direct association with the saints or with Jesus. These objects are venerated due to their connection to holy figures, and they are classified into three categories:

First-class relics: These are the most sacred and consist of actual parts of a saint’s body, such as bones, blood, or hair. The belief is that these relics, being part of the saint’s body, are imbued with the sanctity of the person.

 

Second-class relics: These relics include items that the saint personally used during their lifetime, like clothing, books, or instruments of their martyrdom. These items are honored because they were closely associated with the saints and their holy lives.

 

Third-class relics: These consist of objects that have been touched to a first-class or sometimes a second-class relic. Common examples include cloths touched to the bodies or tombs of saints.

The veneration of relics has a long history in the Catholic Church and is rooted in the belief that God can work miracles through these sacred objects, providing a tangible connection to the divine. Relics are often housed in reliquaries, which are ornate containers designed to display and protect the relic. They are respected and honored in religious practices and are thought to help the faithful connect more deeply with the spiritual lives of the saints, inspiring them to follow their virtues.

Sola Scriptura / Bible Alone

  • The complexity of scriptural interpretation and the role of tradition:
    • John 21:25 states that not all of Jesus’ actions are recorded in the Bible, suggesting the existence of unrecorded traditions.
    • 2 Thessalonians 2:15; 2 Timothy 2:2; 1 Corinthians 11:2; 1 Thessalonians 2:13 highlight Paul’s emphasis on maintaining oral traditions alongside the written word.
    • Acts 2:42; 2 Peter 3:16; 2 John 1:12; 3 John 1:13-14; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Acts 8:31; Hebrews 5:12 discuss the need for proper interpretation and guidance, acknowledging the potential for misinterpretation and the importance of apostolic tradition.

Statues, Images, and Relics

  • Biblical justification for the use of religious images and relics:
    • Exodus 25:18-22; 26:1,31; Numbers 21:8-9; 1 Kings 6:23-29, 35, 7:29 illustrate God’s instructions to create images for worship.
    • Acts 19:11,12; 2 Kings 13:20-21; Acts 5:15-16; Matthew 9:20-22 provide examples of how objects associated with holy figures (apostles, prophets, Jesus) were used for miracles and veneration.

More about Devotion to Saints, Statues, Images and Relics

Catholic Devotion to Saints, Statues, Images, and Relics

The Catholic Church encourages devotion to saints, statues, images, and relics based on its beliefs and traditions. Here’s why:

1. Communion of Saints

Catholics believe in a spiritual family that includes those in heaven (saints), those in purgatory, and believers on earth. Saints can pray for us just as we pray for each other.

2. Intercession of Saints

Just like asking a friend to pray for you, Catholics ask saints to pray for them. The Bible shows examples of people praying for one another (e.g., Revelation 5:8).

3. Veneration vs. Worship

Catholics honor (venerate) saints but worship only God. Statues and images are reminders of the saints, not objects of worship.

4. Statues and Images

These serve as visual aids to help Catholics focus on the lives and virtues of the saints. They are not worshipped but help believers feel closer to those in heaven.

5. Biblical Examples

The Bible shows the use of religious images in worship, like the bronze serpent (Numbers 21:8-9) and the cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 25:18-22).

6. Relics

Relics are physical items connected to saints, such as their bones or personal belongings. They remind Catholics of the saints’ holiness. An example is in 2 Kings 13:20-21, where a man came back to life after touching Elisha’s bones.

7. Tradition and Church Teaching

This practice has been part of the Church’s tradition for centuries and was affirmed by Church Councils, like the Second Council of Nicaea in 787, which supported the use of images.

8. Catechism of the Catholic Church

The Catechism explains that venerating images honors Jesus becoming human (John 1:14) and helps believers reflect on the saints’ lives.

In summary, Catholics use devotion to saints, statues, images, and relics to feel closer to God and honor those who have lived holy lives. These practices are deeply rooted in both the Bible and Church tradition.

Church and Authority

  • Scriptures that outline the authority and foundational truths of the Church:
    • Acts 2:42 emphasizes adherence to apostolic doctrine and communal practices.
    • Ephesians 5:25-26; Matthew 16:18; 20:20 highlight the Church’s sanctity and protection by Christ.
    • 1 Timothy 3:15 declares the Church as the pillar and foundation of truth.
    • Hebrews 13:17; Matthew 18:17-18; Matthew 23:2; 1 Corinthians 5:5; 1 Timothy 1:20 discuss the Church’s disciplinary roles and leadership structure.

Deuterocanonicals

  • Usage of Deuterocanonical books in the New Testament and their significance:
    • 2 Maccabees 6:18-7:42; Wisdom 3:5-6; Wisdom 13:1-9 show thematic and linguistic parallels in the New Testament.
    • Septuagint quotes in the New Testament such as Isaiah 7:14 (Matthew 1:23) and Isaiah 40:3 (Matthew 3:3) demonstrate the influence of these texts.
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Forgiveness of Sins

  • Scriptural foundations for the practice of forgiving and absolving sins:
    • John 20:22-23; Matthew 18:18 give apostolic authority to forgive sins, tying earthly decisions to heavenly outcomes.
    • 2 Corinthians 5:18 refers to the ministry of reconciliation entrusted to the Church.
    • James 5:14-16 discusses the sacramental practice of anointing the sick and confessing sins for healing and forgiveness.
    • Confession and the Sacrament of Penance

More about the Sacrament of Penance

Understanding the Sacrament of Penance

  • God’s Infinite Goodness:
    • Beyond Initial Sacraments: God, in His infinite goodness, provided not only the sacraments of baptism, confirmation, and the Eucharist, but also the sacrament of penance. This sacrament acts as a lifeline, a “plank by which we may still escape to the happy shore of eternal life,” especially after we have lost our way through sin.
    • Merciful Design: Penance is God’s merciful response to our human frailty and tendency to sin after baptism. It’s designed to restore the grace we lose when we sin, using “the most precious blood” of Christ to cleanse us from sins that could otherwise lead to eternal damnation.
  • What is the Sacrament of Penance?:
    • Biblical Basis: The sacrament’s foundation is described in St. John 20:21-23. Jesus empowered His apostles—and their successors—to forgive sins, stating, “Whose sins you shall forgive, they are forgiven them; and whose sins you shall retain, they are retained.”
    • Sign of Inward Grace: Penance is a sacrament because it involves an outward sign (the absolution by the priest) that brings about the inward grace of forgiveness.
  • Extensive Virtue and Efficacy:
    • Unlimited Scope: This sacrament carries a divine commission that is timeless and boundless, offering forgiveness for any sin if the sinner approaches with the right disposition.
    • Contrast with Angels: Unlike angels, who were condemned permanently after one sin, humans are continually offered mercy through this sacrament—a testament to God’s profound love and mercy.
  • Requirements for Effective Penance:
    • Contrition: Genuine sorrow for having offended God, coupled with a firm resolve to avoid future sin.
    • Confession: Openly admitting the nature and number of one’s sins to a priest, acknowledging the wrongs committed.
    • Satisfaction: Fulfilling the penance prescribed by the priest, which might include prayers, acts of charity, or other tasks to make amends for sins.
  • Daily Significance:
    • Valuing the Sacrament: Recognize the immense value of penance and seek it actively when you sin, ensuring you approach with sincere contrition, confession, and readiness to make satisfaction.
    • Embrace God’s Mercy: Always remember the depth of God’s mercy available through this sacrament. It’s a gift that restores our relationship with God, much like the father welcomed the prodigal son with open arms in Luke 15.

Ref: Challoner, Richard. “On the Sacrament of Penance.” Meditations for Every Day in the Year

Justification

  • Discussion on being made right with God through faith and works:
    • 1 John 1:7; 2 Peter 1:9 suggest purification from sins through Christ’s blood.
    • John 1:29; Hebrews 9:26-28; Psalms 50:3, 102:12; Isaiah 43:25 talk about Christ’s sacrificial role in removing sins.
    • Romans 2:13, 3:20; Genesis 12:1-4; Romans 4:2-3; James 2:21-23; Genesis 22:1-18 explore the dynamics of faith and works in Abraham’s life as a model for believers.
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“Brothers” of Jesus

  • Clarifying the term “brothers” in the context of Jesus’ family:
    • John 19:25; Mark 15:47; Matthew 27:56; Mark 6:3; Acts 1:12-15 discuss the broader familial and communal contexts, interpreting “brothers” as possibly close relatives or kin.
    • Genesis 14:14; Genesis 29:15; John 19:26-27; 2 Samuel 6:23; Deuteronomy 34:6 use similar familial terminology broadly, supporting non-literal interpretations.

Papacy/Infallibility

  • Scriptural evidence supporting Peter’s primacy and the concept of papal authority:
    • Matthew 10:1-4; Mark 3:16-19; Luke 6:14-16; Acts 1:13; Luke 9:32 consistently highlight Peter’s leadership among the apostles.
    • Matthew 16:18-19; Isaiah 22:22; Revelation 1:18 discuss the metaphor of keys, symbolizing authority and responsibility given to Peter.
    • John 21:17; Luke 22:31-32; Luke 10:1-2, 16; John 13:20; 2 Corinthians 5:20; Galatians 4:14; Acts 5:1-5 detail Peter’s role in shepherding the early Christian community and the apostolic succession.

Priesthood and Worship

  • The role and function of the priesthood, including liturgical practices:
    • Acts 1:15-26; 2 Timothy 2:2; Titus 1:5; Acts 15:6,23; 1 Timothy 4:14, 5:22, 5:17; James 5:13-15 outline the establishment, responsibilities, and sacramental roles of priests.
    • 1 Corinthians 7:7-9; Matthew 19:12; 1 Corinthians 7:32,33; Revelation 4:8; 1 Kings 8:54; 2 Chronicles 6:13; Ezra 9:5; Matthew 17:14; Luke 5:8; Revelation 8:3-4; 1 Corinthians 12 discuss aspects of worship including celibacy, prayer, and the use of incense.

Purgatory

  • Biblical texts that allude to or support the concept of purification after death:
    • Luke 12:59; 1 Corinthians 3:15; 1 Peter 1:7; Matthew 5:25-26; Hebrews 12:6-11 illustrate the refining and disciplinary nature of God’s love.
    • Matthew 12:32; 1 Peter 3:19; Revelation 21:27; Hebrews 12:23; Colossians 1:24;ma 2 Samuel 12:14; 2 Maccabees 12:43-46; 2 Timothy 1:15-18; 1 John 5:14-17 discuss the efficacy of prayers for the dead and the necessity for purity to enter heaven.

Saints

  • The theological basis for the veneration of saints and their role in Christian life:
    • Mark 12:26-27; John 15:1-8; 1 Corinthians 12:25-27; Romans 12:4-5 emphasize the interconnectedness of the Church, both living and deceased, as part of Christ’s body.
    • Ephesians 6:18; Romans 15:30; Colossians 4:3; 1 Thessalonians 1:11; Joshua 5:14; Daniel 8:17; Tobit 12:16; 1 Corinthians 13:12; 1 John 3:2; Luke 20:34-38; 2 Maccabees 15:11-16; Revelation 8:3-4; Jeremiah 15:1 cover aspects of intercessory prayer, angelic and saintly mediation, and the eternal life of the saints in heaven.

Sola Fide

  • The necessity of combining faith with works, as illustrated in Scripture:
    • James 2:14-26 strongly argues that faith without works is dead, challenging the notion that faith alone is sufficient for salvation.
    • Hebrews 10:26; James 5:20 warn against sin and emphasize the need for active repentance and charitable acts as expressions of genuine faith.
    • Luke 6:46; Matthew 7:21; Matthew 19:16-21; John 5:29 call for obedience to God’s commandments as integral to the life of faith.

Sola Scriptura

  • The complexity of scriptural interpretation and the role of tradition:
    • John 21:25 states that not all of Jesus’ actions are recorded in the Bible, suggesting the existence of unrecorded traditions.
    • 2 Thessalonians 2:15; 2 Timothy 2:2; 1 Corinthians 11:2; 1 Thessalonians 2:13 highlight Paul’s emphasis on maintaining oral traditions alongside the written word.
    • Acts 2:42; 2 Peter 3:16; 2 John 1:12; 3 John 1:13-14; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Acts 8:31; Hebrews 5:12 discuss the need for proper interpretation and guidance, acknowledging the potential for misinterpretation and the importance of apostolic tradition.

Trinity (One Substance, Three Divine Persons)

  • Biblical references that articulate the concept of the Trinity:
    • Matthew 28:19 emphasizes the Trinitarian formula in baptism, invoking the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in a singular unified name.
    • John 1:1; John 8:58-59; John 10:30; John 20:28; Colossians 2:9 affirm the divinity of Jesus Christ, showcasing his eternal nature and unity with the Father, and his embodiment of the fullness of God.
    • John 14:26; Acts 5:3-4; Acts 13:2 highlight the divine personhood of the Holy Spirit, teaching and guiding the believers, and possessing attributes and authority equal to God.