1.3.3 Scripture, tradition and the magisterium of the church

• How does the Church teach the Gospel message of Jesus was handed on?

  Through written Word and Apostolic Tradition
• What is Apostolic Tradition?

  The living handing on of Apostolic teaching
• Who has the authority to lead Catholic belief?

  Jesus through Apostolic Tradition
• What does Apostolic Succession ensure?

  Unchanged teachings since the Apostles
• Why is the teaching of the Church important?

  It was given to the Apostles by Jesus
• What does the Church's Apostolic Tradition represent?

  Correct and true faith
• Why does Apostolic Succession hold authority?

  Because of Christ's promise to St. Peter
• What is the role of the magisterium?

  To interpret the Bible and Apostolic Tradition
• What is the ordinary magisterium?

  Bishops teaching what has always been taught
• What is the conciliar magisterium?

  Pope calls a general council for teachings
• What is the pontifical magisterium?

  Pope uses papal infallibility to decide teachings
• Why is the magisterium important for Catholics?

  It provides answers to modern issues
• What does the Pope do in the Catholic Church?

  Leads the worldwide Church and organizes the magisterium
• What does the Catechism say about the Magisterium?

  It interprets the word of God authentically
• What is the task of the Magisterium according to the Catechism?

  To preserve God’s people from errors
• What is Apostolic Succession?

  The line of bishops back to the Apostles
• What is Apostolic Tradition?

  The Gospel passed on by the Apostles
• What is the Assumption of the Virgin Mary?

  Mary was assumed into heaven body and soul
• What is the conciliar magisterium?

  Church acting as a Council of bishops
• What is papal infallibility?

  Pope speaks authoritatively on doctrine matters
• What is the role of the pontifical ruling?

  Pope as the head of the Church
• What are the three different levels of magisterium?

  • Ordinary magisterium: Bishops teach traditional beliefs
  • Conciliar magisterium: Pope calls a general council
  • Individual magisterium: Pope guards doctrine
• Why is the magisterium important for Catholics? Include a source of wisdom.

  • Higher authority than Scriptures
  • Catechism states: "Interpreting God's word entrusted to magisterium"
  • Provides answers to modern issues
• What arguments exist for and against the magisterium as the only authority Christians need?

  Arguments for:

  • Task of interpreting God's word given to magisterium
  • No higher authority for Catholics
  • Provides answers to modern issues

  
  

  Arguments against:

  • Christianity based on Jesus and Gospels
  • Magisterium based on Scriptures
  • Events not covered by magisterium
• What are the responsibilities of the Pope in the Catholic Church?

  • Lead the worldwide Church
  • Organize and update the magisterium
  • Appoint and ordain new cardinals and bishops
  • Provide guidance on current issues