HOW CAN THE POPE BE INFALLIBLE? HE IS HUMAN TOO........ (Why do Catholics say the Pope is Infallible)

 How can a human being like me and you be infallible? What do Catholics mean by this when referring to the Pope? 

In Catholic theology, the term "infallible" is used to describe a specific attribute ascribed to the Pope, not to ordinary human beings. According to Catholic doctrine, the Pope is considered infallible when speaking ex cathedra (out of the chair), which means when he speaks on matters of faith and morals as the supreme teacher and shepherd of the Church.

The concept of papal infallibility means that the Pope is preserved from error by the Holy Spirit when he solemnly defines a doctrine concerning faith or morals that is to be held by the entire Church. This infallibility is understood to be a charism or gift given to the Pope to ensure that he faithfully transmits the teachings of Jesus Christ without error.

It's important to note that papal infallibility is a very specific and limited doctrine within the Catholic Church. It does not mean that the Pope is sinless, impeccable, or personally infallible in every aspect of his life or teachings. It solely refers to the Pope's capacity to teach authoritatively on matters of faith and morals.

As for ordinary human beings, including you and me, we are fallible, which means we are capable of making mistakes and being misguided in our beliefs or actions. The recognition of our fallibility is a fundamental aspect of human nature, acknowledging our limitations and the need for humility in seeking truth and understanding.


IS THIS SCRIPTURAL? 

Yes. Though the concept of papal infallibility, as defined by the Catholic Church, is not explicitly stated in the Scriptures in the precise manner in which it is understood by Catholics, it is nonetheless derived from a combination of biblical passages, historical development, and theological reflection.


Catholics believe that the basis for papal infallibility can be found in certain passages of the Scriptures, such as Matthew 16:18-19, where Jesus gives Peter the keys of the kingdom and the power to bind and loose. 


Additionally, Catholics point to Luke 22:32, where Jesus tells Peter to strengthen his brothers, as well as John 21:15-17, where Jesus commissions Peter to feed His sheep. These passages are understood by Catholics as indicating a special role and authority given to Peter and his successors, the popes.


However, it is important to note that the interpretation of these verses and the development of the doctrine of papal infallibility took place over centuries within Catholic tradition. The formal definition of papal infallibility as an article of faith was made by the First Vatican Council in 1870.


© Rev. Fr. Oselumhense Anetor, 2023 

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