+The most conservative theologically of the three. Pretty strictly apophatic.

+Parishes also generally conservative

-Energy-essence

-Local doctrines are very weak, especially telonia "Toll Houses"

-Theology not very systematized, so groups will break off communion for something less significant than dogma

+/-Church often tied to local culture and custom

Catholicism:

+Largest intellectual tradition, multiple theological methods

+Despite recent squabbling over liturgy, Latin Rite still rather uniform

-Modern dogmatic proclamations (Immaculate Conception 1854, Papal Infallibility 1870, Assumption 1950) are somewhat "bold" theologically

-Many liberal parishes

+/-Pope has universal jurisdiction

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5313590&forum_id=2...#46151251)

but otherwise pretty credited post.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5313590&forum_id=2...#46151511)

*Oh no! Orthodox is pointy elbow Christianity!

Globohomo Pope kisses black guy's foot, commits multiple heresies

*Claps enthusiastically

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5313590&forum_id=2...#46151637)

God is whatever you say it is right bro

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5313590&forum_id=2...#46151808)

Sola Scriptura: This term, which means "by Scripture alone" in Latin, is one of the key principles that emerged during the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century. Sola Scriptura asserts that the Bible is the ultimate and sufficient authority for Christian faith and practice. It is held in contrast to the Catholic Church's position, which considers both Scripture and Church tradition as equally authoritative. Proponents of Sola Scriptura believe that all doctrines, practices, and teachings should be derived from and be in agreement with the Bible.

Solo Scriptura: This term, meaning "Scripture only," is a more recent development and is not a historical or traditional Protestant position. Solo Scriptura takes the principle of Sola Scriptura to an extreme, often rejecting any role for tradition, historical interpretations, or the guidance of the Church in understanding the Bible. Advocates of Solo Scriptura typically hold a highly individualistic approach to Scripture, maintaining that every believer should read and interpret the Bible without any reliance on external sources, traditions, or authorities.

The key difference between the two concepts lies in their approach to Christian tradition, church history, and the role of the wider Christian community in interpreting Scripture. While Sola Scriptura affirms the primacy of Scripture as the ultimate authority, it still recognizes the value of Christian tradition, historical teachings, and communal discernment in understanding and applying the Bible. On the other hand, Solo Scriptura disregards any external sources or guidance, emphasizing the individual's ability to interpret the Bible without any reference to tradition, community, or historical context.

In summary, Sola Scriptura is a principle that upholds the Bible as the supreme authority for Christian faith and practice, while still valuing the role of tradition and community in interpretation. Solo Scriptura, on the other hand, is a more extreme and individualistic approach that rejects any influence of tradition, history, or the wider Christian community in understanding Scripture.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5313590&forum_id=2...#46151826)

Sol(a) Scriptura

Here's a shortcut: it's all bullshit. Sola Scriptura can justify nonsense like Unitarianism

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5313590&forum_id=2...#46153285)

*Use 1L-level legal exegesis on scripture to justify whatever you want

*Create new church

PROFIT

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5313590&forum_id=2...#46155192)

But I haven't read Institutes or much Luther, so not a mommyblogger PhD here

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5313590&forum_id=2...#46152282)

Sovereignty of God: Reformed theology affirms the absolute sovereignty of God over all aspects of creation and history. God is considered the supreme authority, governing everything according to His will and plan. This belief extends to the understanding of salvation, which is seen as entirely dependent on God's grace and initiative.

Authority of Scripture: Presbyterians hold that the Bible, both the Old and New Testaments, is the inspired Word of God and the ultimate authority for faith and practice. They believe that Scripture is the primary means by which God communicates with humanity and reveals His will.

Salvation by grace through faith: Reformed theology teaches that salvation is a gift from God, given by grace alone, and received through faith in Jesus Christ. This means that human beings cannot earn salvation through their own works or merit; it is entirely dependent on God's grace and mercy.

Predestination and Election: A key aspect of Reformed theology is the belief in predestination and election. This doctrine teaches that God, in His sovereign will, has chosen certain individuals for salvation before the foundation of the world. This election is not based on any human merit or action but solely on God's grace.

The priesthood of all believers: Reformed theology affirms the priesthood of all believers, which means that all Christians have direct access to God through Jesus Christ and share in the responsibility of ministry and service in the church and the world.

Covenant theology: Presbyterians view God's relationship with humanity in terms of covenants. They believe that God established a covenant of grace through Jesus Christ, which is expressed in the Old Testament through the covenant with Abraham and the Mosaic covenant, and in the New Testament through the new covenant in Christ.

Sacraments: The Presbyterian tradition recognizes two sacraments – baptism and the Lord's Supper (also known as communion). These sacraments are considered visible signs and seals of God's grace and are means by which believers participate in the covenant community.

Church government: Presbyterians have a distinct form of church governance known as "presbyterian polity." This system is characterized by a representative structure, with church members electing elders (also known as presbyters) to lead and govern the local congregation and regional bodies (presbyteries, synods, and general assemblies).

In summary, Reformed theology in the Presbyterian tradition emphasizes the sovereignty of God, the authority of Scripture, and the centrality of grace in salvation. It also upholds distinctive beliefs such as predestination, covenant theology, the priesthood of all believers, and a particular form of church governance.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5313590&forum_id=2...#46151654)

HTH

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5313590&forum_id=2...#46151814)