Victor R. Claveau, MJ
A few years ago, I was introduced to a man named George who was taking out a loan of $65,000.00 in order to add a room to his home. He told me that he had been teaching a bible study class for Calvary Chapel for the past 15 years and the number of attendees had grown so large that he needed the additional room.
George: “I consider myself somewhat of an expert on the Bible and if you have any questions, I would be happy to answer them for you.”
Me: “I do have a question for you but it is not concerning the Bible per se.”
George: “Well,” he said, “What is it, what would you like to know?”
Me: “How do you know you are teaching truth?”
George seemed to be was taken aback by my question and said “What do you mean?”
Me: “You stand before your group expounding your interpretation of various Scripture passages. Again, how do you know that your interpretation is the true explanation? Don’t you have a moral responsibility to make certain that what you are teaching is true?”
George: Well, I have a Scripture commentary and I also pray to the Holy Spirit for guidance before each class.”
Me: “Which Holy Spirit?”
George: “What do you mean, there is only one Holy Spirit? Are you a Christian?”
Me: “Yes, I am a Christian? What I mean to say is that there are hundreds, if not thousands, of Christian denominations and groups each claiming inspiration of the Holy Spirit? As there is only one Holy Spirit, and one truth, how come everyone does not receive the same understanding? The Holy Spirit does not sow seeds of confusion, that’s the job of Satan and his demons. Do you believe that after Jesus taught for three years, he said, “That’s all folks, the rest you will have to figure out for yourself.” Doesn’t the Bible tell us that Jesus left behind a visible authority? Scripture teaches that there were bishops, priests, and deacons during the time of the Apostles.”
George: “You’re a Catholic, aren’t you?”
Me: “Yes, I most certainly am.”
George: “Then why do you worship Mary?”
Me: “Catholics do not worship Mary, that would be idolatry. We worship only the Trinitarian God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit.” As I was pressed for time, I gave him a three-minute overview of Mariology.
George: “I have never heard that explanation and it makes perfect sense. When can we get together again, as I have many more questions?”