The Defenders: Understanding Catholic Doctrines

This set of flashcards covers the vocabulary and core theological distinctions discussed in the lecture regarding the differences between Protestant and Catholic authority, doctrines, and historical perspectives.

The Magisterium

The official teaching office of the Catholic Church that is understood to have the authority to authentically interpret both scripture and tradition.

Sola Scriptura

A Protestant doctrine meaning 'scripture alone,' holding that scripture is the only infallible rule of faith and practice and the final authority above tradition.

The Bereans

A group from Acts 17 who are commended for testing the teachings of the Apostle Paul against the scriptures to ensure they were correct.

Tetelestai

A Greek business term used by Jesus on the cross meaning 'it is finished' or 'paid in full.'

Mediator

One who stands between two parties to bring reconciliation; according to 1 Timothy 2:5, there is only one between God and man: the man Christ Jesus.

Purgatory

A Catholic doctrine representing a state of final purification after death for those who die in God's grace but are not yet perfectly purified from the effects of sin.

Apocrypha

A collection of approximately 14 additional books included in the Catholic Bible but rejected from the Protestant canon because they were determined not to be inspired.

The Assumption of Mary

The Catholic dogma teaching that Mary was taken into heaven soul and body after she died, similar to Jesus.

The Immaculate Conception

The Catholic doctrine teaching that Mary herself was preserved from original sin by a unique act of grace at the moment of her own conception.

Pope

An office in the Catholic Church regarded as the head of the church on earth, based on an interpretation of Matthew 16 that Peter was the foundation 'rock' of the church.

The Rosary

A traditional religious practice and tool used for devotion and the repetition of specific prayers like the 'Hail Mary' and 'Our Father.'

Kinsman's Redeemer

A term describing Jesus becoming kin to humanity through the incarnation so that he could represent man and provide salvation.