Subj: HELLO

Date: 99-04-07 02:56:39 EDT

From: STARFIRE7S

To: ADB4JESUS

DID YOU WRITE THE ARTICLES ON CATHOLOCISM? IF SO, PLEASE EMAIL ME AND INCLUDE WHERE YOU OBTAINED YOUR ELITE INFORMATION.

THANK YOU, SHERRY

Subj: Re: HELLO

Date: 99-04-07 10:49:54 EDT

From: ADB4JESUS

To: STARFIRE7S

Hello Sherry,

I have many books on Catholic beliefs as mentioned in Part 2, which was in response to the Handbook for Today's Catholic. I have also had several discussions with priests in a one on one setting. I have also obtained information from the Catholic's own Web Site which states most all of their beliefs and where they originated. Thanks for your response and inquiry. Adam

Subj: Re: HELLO

Date: 99-04-07 12:46:27 EDT

From: STARFIRE7S

To: ADB4JESUS

DEAR FRIEND IN CHRIST,

THOSE ARE GOOD FACTS TO KNOW HOWEVER, I WISH TO INFORM YOU THAT, AS A PRACTICING CATHOLIC AND TEACHER OF RELIGION I CAN ACCURATELY TELL YOU MANY OF THE "FACTS" YOU HAVE LISTED ON YOUR WEB SITE ARE INACCURATE. IF YOU WOULD LIKE ME TO LIST THEM FOR YOU I WOULD BE MORE THAN HAPPY TO DO SO. MEANWHILE, IT IS MY HOPE AND PRAYER THAT YOU WILL TALK TO THE LORD ABOUT THESE THINGS AND NOT BE GUILTY OF HARMING THE ONE ON THE CROSS OR ANY OF HIS CHILDREN.

LOVING YOU IN HIS NAME, SHERRY

Subj: Re: HELLO

Date: 99-04-07 16:13:50 EDT

From: ADB4JESUS

To: STARFIRE7S

Sherry,

Thank you so much and yes I would like for you to list the things that are inaccurate and where they are indicated in the scriptures to be correct. Thank you very much, Adam

Subj: Re: [Re: From Bible Headquarters]

Date: 99-09-05 21:41:12 EDT

From: ADB4JESUS

To: freebutterflies@usa.net

In a message dated 99-09-02 16:42:47 EDT, you write:

<< Hi. I'm confused. I was thinking of becoming Catholic until I saw your page. Now I'm not so sure. I'm scared. I know my father is saved but the things I've read say otherwise. Does that mean my daddy isn't going to Heaven????? You see, my dad is Catholic and I love him very much. Please tell me what is correct to believe. I cryed so hard about it.

Gena >>

Hello Gena,

I'm really sorry to hear of your situation and it is really hard to give you a good answer without knowing a little more information. I am assuming by what you have said above that your father is Catholic, is that correct? If you are considering becoming Catholic, then what are you now? As I stated in the web page, I cannot and will not say that all Catholics are not going to make it to heaven. I would be foolish to do that. Only God knows the answer to that and the purpose for the web page was not to insinuate that but to only present the information and facts of the Catholic belief and what the Bible says. As far as you wanting to become a Catholic I could not advise you strongly enough to NOT do that. I would strongly urge you to get into your Bible and find a good strong Bible Believing Church . Pray for God to direct you to the right one, and ask God to send someone your way that will help disciple you. I would love to talk more but would only be guessing as to what to tell you until you can give me more information about yourself. Thanks so much for writting and please write back soon. Adam

Subj: Appalled

Date: 03/20/2000 6:13:34 AM Central Standard Time

From: snellera@pilot.msu.edu (Alexis V Sneller)

To: adb4jesus@aol.com

I generally don't encourage proprietors of hate sites on the Web by writing, but I had to send you a letter saying how appalling your anti-Catholic Web site is. The information you list as "proof" as Catholicism is laughably incorrect. Also, how can you claim to know when Christ is coming? Perhaps your Bible is different, but mine (yes, the priests let us read it!) says in Matthew 24:36, "But of that day and hour no one knows, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone." And Matthew 24:42, "Therefore, stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come."

God bless you. You will be in my prayers. Alexis

Subj: Re: Appalled

Date: 03/20/2000 8:36:19 PM Central Standard Time

From: ADB4JESUS

To: snellera@pilot.msu.edu

Hello Alexis,

Thank you for your response and I must apologize for any misunderstandings. I would first like to state that I am not anti-catholic, but I am anti-catholic doctrine. I do not intend to be argumentative but you obviously did not read the entire article. If you did you would have seen that I aimed the entire page(s) at the leadership of the catholic church. I understand that being a catholic you would take offense to the things on the page. I also ask that if you find inaccuracies in the scriptures indicated that you would send me the proof to those things. I did not make those statements blindly, and I would appreciate that if you disagree that you show the Biblical proof along with the doctrinal statements that disprove the same. Thank you again, Adam

Subj: Thank you

Date: 12/3/00 10:22:44 PM Central Standard Time

From: Georgelc07@cs.com

To: ADB4JESUS

Adam,

I thank you very much for this website. I found it on accident while trying to find more about Catholic Beliefs online so I could know how they think and show them where their religion failed them. I have many Catholic friends. If you have time could you give me some advice on how to talk to them and how to bring the subject of how to get to Heaven up in a way that wouldn't make them mad? I would like to talk to you more. Do you have AOL Instant Messenger? I thank you again for the time and effort you put into this website. I will be praying that people who come to this site will be convinced of that Jesus is the only way the truth and the light.

Sincerely, Eric

Subj: Re: Thank you

Date: 12/4/00 11:26:30 AM Central Standard Time

From: ADB4JESUS

To: Georgelc07@cs.com

Hello Eric,

Thank you so much for your email and for the kind words and I am not sure it was by accident that you found it. It is really refreshing to know that the pages do actually help others because that is my main purpose for having this site. Usually I get upset catholics that have read the page and lash out at me for having anti-catholic material as they put it. It is very hard to talk to catholics regarding this topic and God bless you for having the desire to do so. I have found that they are extremely defensive and mainly because they have no idea what they actually believe most of the time. They have only followed traditions all their lives and cannot even defend their doctrine most of the time and that is why they get so defensive. It is really sad to see people like this that are so blindly following a teaching that is destructive like this is. I wish I had an easy answer for you regarding this but to be honest there is no easy approach to talking to them. I have tried various approaches and have had little success with any of them. The main thing is to do it in a non-condemning way. To cause them to search out the answers themselves but challenging them to find Biblical proof for the things they say they believe. Actually that is what I was attempting to do with Richard on the site. If you go to the "emails from Richard" you will see where he was attempting to provide many scriptures that supposedly supported his beliefs. I in turn tried to show him that none of the scriptures he listed were accurately used but rather taken out of context. My approach has always been to provide the scriptures that prove their error and ask them to prove them wrong. This does two things; it causes them to look at those scriptures and also to study to prove what they believe. Unfortunately there are a lot of sites out there also for just such a thing and they look at them and get the distorted information and believe it. Anyway, I hope that this has helped you some in what you wanted to know and if not please let me know and I will do what I can to help. Thanks again for you response and God bless you in your efforts to win the deceived. Sincerely in Christ, Adam

Subj: Re: Thank you

From: Georgelc07@cs.com

To: ADB4JESUS

Adam,

I do agree that me finding your site was probably not an accident. I don't believe God does things by accident. Those things mentioned in your e-mail are good ideas to approach Catholics. I was reading some letters you wrote in responce to other people and I liked how you said "I am not anti-Catholic, I am anti-Catholic doctrine." Oh, I did have another question... I know that the Catholic Bible has more books in, so did the Catholics add to the original Bible or did the Protestants take out the extra books? I have been wondering about that. Thank you again for your time and for giving me advice. I really appreciate it. I will be praying that your site will keep helping Catholics see The Light. Thank you again and God bless.

In Christ, Eric

Subj: Re: Thank you

Date: 12/5/00 7:57:52 AM Central Standard Time

From: ADB4JESUS

To: Georgelc07@cs.com

Hello Eric,

Thanks again for the kind words and I do hope that it was helpful. The catholic bible does have some extra books and they are called the "apocrypha" and they are really nothing more than history books. They are all Old Testament books with the Maccabees being between the book of Malachi and Matthew. I have read them and there is nothing bad in them (with the exception of one mention of what could be construed as 'purgatory' in 2 Maccabees) they are mostly just historical accounts. They were actually in the bible until the canonization of the scriptures was done and they were seen as no real benefit. Later Luther, Tyndale, Wycliff, and others agreed and did not include them in there translations. The Protestants took them out but the catholics still hold to them because as I mentioned they allude to 'purgatory' in Maccabees. Thanks again Eric and it is really encouraging to see your hunger to witness to these people. I pray that God will give you the wisdom you need as you talk to them and that He fill you with His Spirit so that you will stand strong. In Christ, Adam

PS> if you have any other questions please let me know.

Subj: Re: Thank you

Date: 12/5/00 5:51:56 PM Central Standard Time

From: Georgelc07@cs.com

To: ADB4JESUS

Adam,

Thanks for the information about the extra books in the Catholic Bible. I had been wondering about that. I have been e-mailing one friend and he has come up with Bible verses that 'prove' his beliefs. On some of them I could see how they were just taken out of context... but this one I don't know about.... He used James 2:24-26 to prove that faith is not enough to get to Heaven. ("You must percieve that a person is justified by his works and not his faith alone. Rahab the harlot will illustrate the point. Was she not justified by her works when she harbored the messengers and sent them out by a different route? Be assured then that fairth without works is as dead as a body without breath.") What is this verse really saying? I do thank you for all your time and for answering the questions I have had.

In Christ, Eric

Subj: Re: Thank you

Date: 12/6/00 9:30:15 AM Central Standard Time

From: ADB4JESUS

To: Georgelc07@cs.com

Hello Eric,

I have heard that argument before also and it is simply a misinterpretation of the scripture or actually taking in out of context to make it say what it doesn't. In Romans 3:20, Paul says, "By works of the law no flesh will be justified," and Ephesians 2:9 tells us that our salvation is "not of works" along with 2 Timothy 1:9 and Titus 3:5. On the other hand James 2:21-24 apparently states that man is not justified by faith only but also by works. Then Paul again says in Romans 2:13,

"The doers of the law will be justified." So what is the answer when scriptures seem to contradict each other? The key is in the whole context of what is being said, James 2:14 does not say, "What doth it profit...though a man have faith?" but he does say, "What use is it my brethren, if a man says he has faith." A mere profession of faith does not mean the possession of faith or the natural accompaniments of faith. Faith that is not accompanied by its inevitable and expectant fruits of faith is not faith at all. It is a mockery and James calls such a faith "dead." There is much more that I could say on this but the bottom line comes down to this; Paul is not advocating, "Works" without faith and James is not advocating "Faith" without works. What they are both saying agrees with the other in the fact that "Faith" produces works and it is not the 'works' that obtain your salvation or even secure it. The 'works' are simply a product of genuine faith. It is our 'faith' alone that brings about our salvation, but in that salvation our life is transformed and through obedience the 'works' are manifest. The only reason that catholics want to use this argument is that it agrees with unbiblical 'traditions' that have been instilled that contradict scriptures. I hope this helps you with this person and your own understanding of the difference. If not let me know, talk to you later, In Christ, Adam

Subj: hello once again!

Date: 12/20/00 10:49:05 PM Central Standard Time

From: Georgelc07@cs.com

To: ADB4JESUS

Adam,

I have one more question. I have been talking to my Catholic friend again and he has talked of the Rosary. What is that? Just a quick question. Thanks for your time.

Eric

Subj: Re: hello once again!

Date: 12/21/00 8:45:26 AM Central Standard Time

From: ADB4JESUS

To: Georgelc07@cs.com

Hello Eric,

Thanks once again for the question and instead of giving you the long answer I will give you the link to the 'catholic encyclopedia' where I get a lot of my information regarding the catholic practices.

http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/13184b.htm

You should be able to get all the information about the 'rosary' and there are many rosaries to pick from. Let me know if there is anything else I can help with and God bless you, in Christ, Adam

Subj: plagues

Date: 2/6/01 5:32:38 PM Central Standard Time

From: h.saberin@worldnet.att.net (Harry Saberin)

To: adb4jesus@aol.com

What is the Catholics belief on plagues? Do they think it is a punishment?

Subj: Re: plagues

Date: 2/7/01 9:09:39 AM Central Standard Time

From: ADB4JESUS

To: h.saberin@worldnet.att.net

Hello Harry,

Thank you so much for your question and I will answer the best I can with the information available to me. I checked the catholic encyclopedia and the only reference to 'plagues' was in regards to the 10 plagues poured out on Egypt. They did view these particular plagues as from God on the Egyptians in which I agree. However there are other plagues that I believe that God allows upon man as a result of their own defiance to His laws. A good example of this would be what is spoken about in Romans 1:27 which I believe is a direct implication of the 'Aids' virus. There are many other sexually transmitted diseases that would also fit into this category. There are many other examples such as a person that continually smokes puts themselves at risk of cancer. One who drinks excessively is at risk for liver disease. Would it be correct to blame, or assess these results to God? It is something that God has warned man about and at the same time given them free will to continue if they so choose. Many things that we consider 'plagues' are brought about by man's continued disobedience to the directives of God. There are some that are out of the control of man such as those on the Egyptians and those are from God. Thank you for you question and I pray that this has helped answer it. In Christ, Adam

Subj: (no subject)

Date: 7/14/01 9:06:07 AM Central Daylight Time

From: Savebygrace51

To: ADB4JESUS

Hello, Adam I know you are doing a good work for Jesus.I enjoy your point of view about the catholic. I always want some one to make a point about them. You made the right point of view.Satan plant any one who is against Christ.they dont follow what Christ teach. That was the devil plan.Now we have a lots of people,who are simple mind easy to be mislead, follow him. Your comments are very moving to me. thank God for someone like you.God bless your christain web site, and you and your entire family.

Subj: Re: (no subject)

Date: 7/14/01 7:15:57 PM Central Daylight Time

From: ADB4JESUS

To: Savebygrace51

Hello,

Thank you so much for the kind words and I am glad to hear that you agree with the catholic pages. It is good to know that there are others that see the truth of their dangerous doctrine also. Thanks again and God bless you also, In Christ, Adam

Subj: a comment

Date: 10/5/01 7:30:46 PM Central Daylight Time

From: ADBOND@IUS.EDU (BOND, APRIL DAWN)

To: adb4jesus@aol.com ('adb4jesus@aol.com')

CC: billvarmint@juno.com ('billvarmint@juno.com')

I just read your article about the practice of Catholic traditions versus the scriptures (http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Column/7574/CATHOLIC1.htm) and I would have to say that you make some very valid points as far as the Scriptures are concerned. Indees they are what is fundamental to the Christian faith. However, the general tone of the document is somewhat offensive. I am not a Catholic, nor have I been one, but I know from experience that many Catholics are unwilling to even discuss their beliefs with Protestants because often the Protestants come off as acting as if their way is the only way and that Catholics are totally and completely wrong. My boyfriend is Catholic and we have had many discussions on the subject, however I don't get in his face about things I disagree with, instead I explain my beliefs in ways that he can identify with. Who am I to say that the practice of many of their traditions are wrong? What about these words spoken by Paul? "So then, brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught by us, either by word of mouth or by letter." [2Thess 2:15] What matters is the fundamental belief that Jesus died on the cross and rose again in three days for the forgiveness of sins. Why does it really matter if they pray to Mary? It is not worship as you call it. Mary is honored in the Catholic faith jsut as you would honir your parents or pay honor to a king. It is not worship. Many of your assumptions are based on individuals. The Catholic church is not corrupt, but like all other Christian faiths has members of its body who are fallible human beings prone to making mistakes and corrupting what was meant to be pure. The Catholic Church does not discourage the reading of scripture and it doesn't say tradition is more important either. I think you should have gotten your facts straight before coming to such condemning conclusions about your fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.

Subj: Re: a comment

Date: 10/6/01 10:59:15 PM Central Daylight Time

From: ADB4JESUS

To: ADBOND@IUS.EDU

CC: billvarmint@juno.com

 Dear April,

Thank you for your comments and for sharing your thoughts about the catholic faith. Unfortunately you did not read carefully the pages on catholicism from the site. If you did you would have seen that they were directed at the catholic leadership and not the common lay person. You would have also seen that I did not base my findings on other people's examples but on facts from the catholics own web sites and publications. You would have also seen that I challenged anyone reading those pages to show me the Biblical errors to those statements made. I also suggest that you read the catholic's own doctrine before claiming that they do not believe the things as I listed them. I will include the sites for you to examine for yourself:

http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/

http://www.catholic.org/

http://www.christusrex.org/www1/CDHN/ccc.html

I also encourage you to visit this particular page about the saints of the catholic church and see the complete heretical view of saints. http://saints.catholic.org/patron.html

Tell me, how would you like to be the saint of "Hemorrhoid sufferers" or what about "Hernia sufferers" or better yet how about "Dog bites"? Believe me there are more crazy ones in there just look for yourself.

As far as your statement about how do we have the right to judge someone's faith or their practice of traditions? Well, the Bible is the final authority on all things and must be as it is God's word. God does not need any help from man to keep the Bible the way He intended it, but when man tries to incorporate false teachings that distort that Word (which is exactly what the catholic church has done) then it is easy to judge. It is not only our right to judge doctrine or "traditions" in this case but it is a command. Look at Galatians 1:6-10 and you will see that directive. You are also very misled about the fact that they do most certainly "Worship" Mary as well as pray to her and thousands of saints as well. That is an abomination to God to imply that there is some other mediator needed than Christ. I am truly sorry that you don't understand the complete seriousness of this matter but I can only suggest that you do much more study. The catholic doctrine is very dangerous and very heretical and that may not be politically correct to say so but it is the complete truth. They have perverted the Gospel with traditions of man. I cannot apologize for my harsh tones about this belief because it is necessary to expose the danger of it. I also would say that if you are not catholic yet are dating a catholic then you are putting yourself in danger of being deceived about the truth also. You should not take lightly something like this, especially when you have not studied yourself but taken your catholic boyfriends word for it. I again give you the same challenge as anyone else, prove me wrong with Scriptures. Show me that from the catholic's own web sites and publications that they do not follow the things I have listed. Thanks again, in Christ, Adam

Subj: Re: a comment

Date: 10/7/01 8:28:44 AM Central Daylight Time

From: billvarmint@juno.com (Bond, April Bond)

To: ADB4JESUS@aol.com

"You should not take lightly something like this, especially when you have not studied yourself but taken your catholic boyfriends word for it."

I have not taken his word for it as you put it. In fact I have studied it on my own. I have learned much more in my own studies then by talking to him. On the issue of praying to the saints. Don't you ask your fellow Christian's for their prayers in time of trouble? That's what Catholics are doing when they pray to the saints. True it is not neccessary. I don't personally believe that the dead can hear our requests on earth but neither is it a practice which will prevent entrance into heaven if the perosn truly believes.

Subj: Re: a comment

Date: 10/7/01 5:42:34 PM Central Daylight Time

From: ADB4JESUS

To: billvarmint@juno.com

Dear April,

First, I owe you an apology for assuming that your were getting information from your boyfriend instead of researching it yourself. I truly hope that you have indeed done research and only encourage you to do much more. You made a comment I wish to address;

"On the issue of praying to the saints. Don't you ask your fellow Christian's for their prayers in time of trouble? That's what Catholics are doing when they pray to the saints. True it is not necessary. I don't personally believe that the dead can hear our requests on earth but neither is it a practice which will prevent entrance into heaven if the person truly believes."

There is a vast difference between asking a "Living" fellow believer to pray for you as opposed to a "Dead" so called saint. We are instructed to not pray to the dead and it is a practice that was practiced by pagans in Bible times. Another thing about this "sainthood" of the catholic church is that the leadership of the catholic church are the ones that select these so called saints and it is based on their "good" deeds. The Bible clearly indicates that ALL and ANY believers and followers of Christ are to be considered saints. Therefore our "sainthood" is based on what Christ did not on what we could do. As you state that this is not something that should prevent them from going to heaven, well if that was the only questionable belief you could have an argument. The fact is that there are hundreds of doctrines and traditions that are not Biblical and therefore combining them it is clear that this is a false teaching and considered by many to be a cult. Once again all I can do is to profusely encourage you to study completely the doctrine that you are so readily defending. I also ask you once again to provide Scriptures to the contrary of what I have indicated. I also ask you once again to provide Scriptural support for the traditions that I mentioned in my page. Thanks again and look forward to hearing from you again, In Christ, Adam

Subj: Marrying a Catholic

Date: 10/24/01 10:15:55 PM Central Daylight Time

From: lundin5@hutchtel.net (The Lundin's)

To: adb4jesus@aol.com

Dear Adam,

I have been doing some research on Catholic Beliefs and discovered your web page. I found it very interesting. My brother is engaged to a Catholic and he has talked about becoming a Catholic. I would like some advice on what I could do to change his mind. I found their beliefs to be very scary and don't want him to follow that path. I would greatly appreciate your advice.

Thank you.

Subj: Re: Marrying a Catholic

Date: 10/25/01 9:37:35 AM Central Daylight Time

From: ADB4JESUS

To: lundin5@hutchtel.net

Hello,

You are very right to be concerned and you are also correct that their beliefs are very dangerous. I am sorry to hear that your brother is considering this move. It is great that you are concerned and want to do what you can to show him the truth and I will help as much as I can. Catholicism has recently (in the last 5-10 yrs) begun to try to lighten the criticism by openly encouraging Bible study. Unfortunately they have done this under the guise of supposedly opening up in this area. In reality they have already brainwashed their people and have instilled their doctrine to the point that the Bible study that is allowed is tainted to follow those traditions. It is really not any different from the Bible study that Mormons or Jehovah's Witnesses have, it is slanted to accommodate their views. My advice would be determined on whether or not your brother is born again or not. If he is then I would suggest that you print out the pages I have on my site and show them to him encouraging him to find them incorrect according to the Bible. I would also stress to him the scripture that instructs us to "not be unequally yoked with unbelievers" 2 Corinthians 6:14.

If he is not born again then you cannot show him the truth until he is. There is also a book that I highly recommend called "When Catholics Die" by Richard Noll and you can get that book through Midnight Call at 1-800-845-2420 or at midnightcall.com. It is about $10 and it is well worth the cost and I would HIGHLY encourage you if you could get you brother to read this book. Richard Noll was a devout catholic for over 67yrs and has some great insights. I hope that this has helped you and keep me informed as to what happens with your brother if you would please. In Christ, Adam

Subj: real Catholic??

Date: 11/7/01 12:29:38 PM Central Standard Time

From: jlloz@ma.ultranet.com (Me)

To: adb4jesus@aol.com

I found your site today and quickly scanned through the first page and cannot tell if you are against Catholics????? I'd like to read the right things but this is confusing to me. The home page is beautiful and more to my liking, so what is it you are trying to say? Catholics are not the one true church?????? Hope you can answer my question and clear up my doubts. Jeanne

Subj: Re: real Catholic??

Date: 11/8/01 10:11:13 AM Central Standard Time

From: ADB4JESUS

To: jlloz@ma.ultranet.com

Hello Jeanne,

Thank you for your questions and for looking at my site. I do want to clarify something right away, I am not "against" catholics, but I am totally against "catholic" doctrine and teaching. I can only encourage you to read all the material I have on my site about this topic. It is very clear why I take the stand I do and I pray it is also just as clear to anyone that reads it. Please let me know if you still have these same questions after you read all the material about the catholic doctrine in my site. In Christ, Adam

Subj: Hello!

Date: 11/18/01 8:55:08 PM Central Standard Time

From: Spirit2L1@msn.com (Endrea Brzezniak)

To: adb4jesus@aol.com

Hi, just wanted to let you know that I was born, raised and educated in Catholic schools, and as I got older, I started to note inconsistencies in Catholicism myself. Most of which stemmed from my experience with many different clergy from Felician Nuns to Priests! One of which is a Catholic priest in my own family! Needless to say, one realizes fast just how "human and fallible" these people are...contrary to the depth of the religious indoctrination one receives in school!

I see you did raise the hair on a few peoples necks that are Catholics! All I can tell you is that when a person is a Christian, and you discuss topics with another Christian, regarding "religion," people right away refer to the "born agains" feeling self-righteous! Boy did we have a few heated discussions at my place of work. It was never pointed at any one religion, but people who are born, raised and indoctrinated into Catholicism just do NOT understand that reading the bible yourself will open your eyes up. It is hard to convince any Catholic to do that.

I have to tell you though, that EVERY point you made regarding what Catholicism teaches, is TRUE regarding its accuracy. I always hated being "forced" in school to go to "confession" when I knew that the priest was doing things that were not acceptable...(He later got booted out from the priesthood when they found he had a female friend and 3 children!!!) I am not sorry that I was exposed all those years to schooling in Catholicism, as it gave me a sense of spirituality. As an adult though, I just did not feel that it meant my spiritual emptiness. So, I literally just dropped out and didn't do much of anything for many years...Until about 4 years ago when the Lord placed my now best friend and Christian in my life who led me to the Lord.

Anyways...I just wanted to support your efforts, because contrary to some of the email you had that was really condemning what you said regarding the Catholic belief system, I can tell you, it is ALL ACCURATE and TRUE!!! I spent most of my life under that belief system, so good job providing the light to others! I just never understood why we were never taught to read the bible on our own. Maybe then people would realize just how inaccurate and how conflicting Catholicism really is!

God Bless you...Keep up the good work! Sincerely, Endrea

Subj: Catholic Girlfriend

Date: 12/10/01 2:02:23 PM Central Standard Time

From: jmlone01@athena.louisville.edu (Jason Lone)

To: adb4jesus@aol.com

First, I like your webpage and will recommend it to others. I come from a baptist home and frequent a southern baptist church. I also have been dating a catholic girl for about 8 years (I know, I'm trying to get out of college before I have any other large priorities). At first it didn't bother me because my mother was a catholic before marrying my father and most of her family is also catholic, so I had no problem dating a catholic. We have discussed this religion difference several times and concerns of children. I have read your catholic beliefs page and have similiar opinions about the individuals and the churches belief. I do believe she is a believer and is saved, John 3:16, however, I do not like the catholic beliefs such as mass, holy day of obligation, confession, baptism and confirmation. They seem to ceremonial and inpersonal to me. Our last discussion involved the baptism. I am not sure what the catholic baptism was for. I explained to her, if anything, to me the catholic baptism was like a baby dedication to the church and was oriented toward the duty of the parents rather than the soul of the child. She explained, or thought that it was for God to watch over this child until the child is old enough to understand and be confirmed. And again I suggested that it was the parents duty to pray for the child, not get them baptized. This led to the discussion of what happens when a baby dies before he/she has had the chance to understand a make a decision for itself.... and so on. I couldn't answer that. I guess you could say I am not a very strong practicing believer and am unable to make a strong case for my beliefs. That is why I researched your pages. I saw were you recommended the book, "when a catholic dies". Do you have any other recommendations. Sorry about the length. Hope you don't mind, I may be asking some more questions.

Thanks Jason

Subj: Re: Catholic Girlfriend

Date: 12/10/01 8:44:16 PM Central Standard Time

From: ADB4JESUS

To: jmlone01@athena.louisville.edu

Hello Jason,

Thank you so much for your kind comments and for sharing your situation with me. I pray that I can give you an answer that will provide some help in making some decisions. First, it is a proclamation of your dedication to your education and to your girlfriend in what you are doing. It is a delicate situation you are in and especially with the commitment of time that you have invested. I have been very impressed with the book that I recommend by Richard Noll. He was a devout catholic for over 60 years, so what he says is not without great experience to back it up. I would also encourage you to look at the section of emails by another devout catholic that was sent to me which I put on the catholic page. (http://members.aol.com/_ht_a/adb4jesus/EmailsfromRichard.htm) These emails contained many scriptures that catholics say back their views. I went through each scripture and showed the gross mis-interpretation in their use of them. I believe it is very important for your girlfriend to prove her belief to herself. She will obviously hear the catholic side of the belief from the priests, but she needs to see the evidence and then make an objective decision based on all the facts. She will not get all the facts from the priests. It sounds like you two have a pretty open relationship as far as dialogue about your differences. That is important and it is also important to not alienate her but at the same time it is vital to reveal all the facts to her. Of course I could not go without encouraging you to make time yourself to get into the Word and prayer time yourself. It is so important for you to get your spiritual condition back where it needs to be also. You stated that you believe that she is saved and you would know that more than I would. I would ask some questions though to make it clear that she does understand the concept of Biblical salvation. There are several questions that could be asked to clarify this: What does it take to be saved? How are you saved? Can good deeds or works save you? Does a church save you?

As for the topic about baptism, Romans 6: 1-14 makes it clear that baptism is the symbolism of Christ dying for us and our dying to our flesh and it's desires and raising to a new life serving Him. It is also clear that to understand this concept is needed to properly relate to the symbolism it represents. It is also clear that if you need to be understand this relation that a baby would not be a candidate. A decision to accept Christ and accept His forgiveness and payment for our sins requires an understanding of what you are doing. A baby or child is not able to comprehend this, therefore it is not logical to think that they could possibly be held accountable for this action. I think the more important things to concentrate on are the vast differences in the catholic belief and the Bible.

Thanks so much again for your email and I pray that this has been helpful to you in your situation. God bless you, Adam

Subj: Your page

Date: 12/12/01 1:10:07 AM Central Standard Time

From: betzy30@hotmail.com (Sarah Betzold)

To: ADB4JESUS@aol.com

Catholics and Scripture

#10 1. The use of images is forbidden (no exceptions given), Ex. 20:4, Isa. 42:8.

2. In the same scripture (Ex. 20:4) it clearly states "no graven images".

I don't suppose you have a picture of Jesus, a nativity set, or approve of the Lincoln Memorial? Remember no exceptions given!!

Bye Sarah

Subj: Re: Your page

Date: 12/12/01 4:54:54 PM Central Standard Time

From: ADB4JESUS

To: betzy30@hotmail.com

Hello Sara,

Thanks for taking time to write me and for looking at my site. Thanks also for the question also. As for an answer, if those things become exonerated or worshipped then NO there is not place for them in my life. There is a vast difference in what you suggest and the fact that the catholic heirachy have inducted thousands upon thousands of so-called "saints" that are expected to be prayed to. For example; did you know that there is a "Saint" for Haemorrhoid sufferers? What about Button makers, Cab drivers, Cake makers, Charcoal-burners, Dog bites, Geese, Hernia sufferers, Insanity, Leaping, Mentally ill , Possession (by the Devil), Rabies, (this is one of my favorites) Theft, thieves, (This has to be my all-time favorite though, how would you like to be the Saint of VD?) Veneral disease? You don't have to take my word for it look at your own site and see for yourself: http://saints.catholic.org/patron.html

The above shows the extreme absurdity of the catholic leadership and how that anything can be introduced as acceptable when you take away the authority of the Bible. By saying that "Tradition" and the teachings of the Pope are equal in authority with the Holy Scriptures is not only "Heresy" but it opens the door for the completely ludicrous things you see mentioned above. Show me ONE scripture that confirms not only the above saints but especially the directive to pray to them! The catholic leadership has so effectively blinded it followers from its start that the truth is obscure and hidden. The truth can be seen by ANY catholic that can for once in their life put down the doctrine and teaching of the catholic church and look at what the Bible says. Any catholic should be able to read Matthew chapter 23 without catholic indoctrination and see a perfect replica of Christ speaking to the catholic church itself. The issue above with the saints would be less important if it were not for the countless other heresies that the catholic church issue without Biblical support. Please don't just pick out one verse and come back to me trying to vindicate the catholic belief when you have left the massive amount of contradictions and heresies. Go through the points on my page and come back to me with the scriptures that I ask for to prove my accusations wrong about this belief! Thanks again for your attempt. Sincerely in Christ, Adam

Subj: RE: Catholic Girlfriend

Date: 12/11/01 3:17:44 PM Central Standard Time

From: jmlone01@athena.louisville.edu (Jason Lone)

To: ADB4JESUS@aol.com

Thanks for the response. I am glad to see someone actully takes the time to read and respond to strangers. I have extensivly searched your site and had previously read the responses from Richard (the devout catholic) and sent him an email requesting an general discussion, but have failed to hear anything. Also, during my search I stumbled upon another site that you may like. It shows a side by side comparison along with rules and laws made by priests and popes (dogmas). Check it out! http://www.xlministries.org/resources/apologetics/roman/roman.html

I wonder if you could confirm my understanding of a few things I have found on what catholics believe.

Immaculate conception - that Mary became pure at moment of conception

Baptism - a symbolism of the immaculate conception.

Confirmation - child has reached maturity level to make own decision

(although usually done as entire class)

Purgatory - place to clense all confessed sins

Mass - some believe bread and wine become actual body of christ

I'm not sure about the Mass. My girlfriend says it is just as symbolic as baptist communion (last supper) remeberance ceremony. And that lent and holy days of obligation or acts of obedience and rememberance. I don't know, maybe she needs to research what her own religion believes. It seems to me that if these are true acts of obedience that Catholics would be happy to show their appreciation, but most catholics I know grudgingly follow them.

Back to the baptism subject. How can I explain what happens to baptist babies when they die before they have had the chance to commit to the Lord? I know this is a minor point, but this seems to give me the most trouble.

Thanks for all your help and information

Jason

Subj: Re: Catholic Girlfriend

Date: 12/12/01 6:40:50 PM Central Standard Time

From: ADB4JESUS

To: jmlone01@athena.louisville.edu

Hello Jason,

Thanks again for your questions and for the kind words. That is the purpose of my site to invite questions and encourage Godly living and study. I also want to thank you for the site that you sent, I did check it out and it is very good and gives some very good information. I would highly recommend printing out that page and giving it to your girlfriend. I would not encourage you to try to converse with Richard, he is very rigid and will not be open to any discussion other than trying to persuade you of your error. The process you are ensuing is the best approach, to find apologetic sites that offer Biblical evidence against the catholic doctrine.

As for your questions about the following topics:

Immaculate conception - Yes, they believe that Mary was without sin and even go as far as to say that she ascended to heaven and did not die physically. You can find the answers to these topics on the on-line version of the catholic encyclopedia and here is the address for the topic of the "immaculate conception" http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/07674d.htm

You will also find it interesting that in this section under Biblical Proof you will see that they admit that there is no scripture for this belief. Here is the quote from this page: "No direct or categorical and stringent proof of the dogma can be brought forward from Scripture."

Baptism/Confirmation - Yes they do believe that this is the event that bestows the Holy Spirit upon the person even though scripture says that we receive the spirit upon believing. Confirmation is the ritual they perform with children usually 12-13 yrs old and it is derived from the "bar-mitzvah" the Jewish males go through. The vast difference is that according to the catholic version of this act, it separates the destination of this child. They believe that the sprinkling as a baby saves the child until this event, then after they reach this age they need the Confirmation. So apparently the sprinkling as a baby was only "temporary" salvation for this child?

Purgatory - One of the more UN-biblical doctrines introduced by the catholic leadership to create a dependence upon the catholic church for their salvation. They can pay to have their loved ones or friends prayed out of this place into heaven. Imagine that, live life however you please and then if your family has enough money you can be bought into the Kingdom. Sure is contradictory to what Jesus said to the rich man that approached him!

Mass - Yes, this is one of the most blatant and most heretical and blasphemous acts the catholic church instituted. To insinuate that Christ's sacrifice was not good enough the first time and that each time communion is presented His blood and flesh is required again is totally unbiblical and a slap in the face of Jesus' death. I would have to say that this is one of the heresies that anger me the most in this belief. It is called "trans-substantiation" and it extreme heresy.

For the subject of infants dying and where they go: This is one topic that is not clearly defined in the scriptures so it is hard to give scriptural support. The one scripture that does deal with it in my opinion is 2 Samuel 12: 15-23. In this section David loses the baby that was conceived by Bathsheba in their affair. David is fasting and praying and when the baby dies he cleans himself and eats. His advisors do not understand it and he explains that the child is with God now and cannot come back. I believe that children that die at young ages go to be with the Lord because they could not have intelligibly understood the plan of salvation and accepted the conditions. The Bible says that all that "call" upon the Lord shall be saved. Obviously children of toddler stages cannot do this and do not understand it. God is just and it is clear that He will judge in that same Just manor. We cannot put an age on when a child does understand because all children are different and have different levels of understanding. God knows that and He will be the one that separates the "goats for the sheep." It is not our job to decide who understands or has made that decision. We do however judge them by their fruits. We can also judge any doctrine outside of the Gospel. I believe that all babies that are victims of abortion and any toddler that dies goes to be with the Lord. To me this is not a doctrinal issue that affects salvation so it is minor. The issue of someone following catholicism however is a matter of salvation. I still recommend for you to get your girlfriend to look at all this evidence and then make a decision.

God bless you and keep up the search and get back in the Word and Prayer. God can open doors for you that no one else can.

Adam

Subj: Re: Your page

Date: 12/12/01 11:39:51 PM Central Standard Time

From: betzy30@hotmail.com (Sarah Betzold)

To: ADB4JESUS@aol.com

Okay...

1. It's Sarah, not Sara :)

2. You only briefly answered my question by qualifying the Bible, then went off on saints (?) not to mention the Catholic Church but I don't know quite why that was necessary.

What do you define as worship?

"As for an answer, if those things become exonerated or worshipped then NO there is not place for them in my life."

You shall not make for yourself a graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth;

I don't think it mean IF you worship them, but don't have them AND don't worship them. Why can you go above the Scriptures?

I would like to know what church do you go to or what are your beliefs? Also do you dislike every denomination that doesn't agree with what you think?

As far as proving you wrong I don't think we would ever agree, so it isn't worth the effort if you aren't open to what I have to say. And since one verse doesn't matter, two won't nor three...etc.

Thank you so much though for e-mailing me your opinion. Most don't e-mail me back at all. Thanks again!!

Bye Sarah

Jesus being of heaven and earth...I ask you why you draw the line between images and not

Subj: Re: Your page

Date: 12/13/01 8:33:24 AM Central Standard Time

From: ADB4JESUS

To: betzy30@hotmail.com

Hello Sarah,

Thanks once again for your email and your comments. As to your accusation that I only briefly touched on your original question I apologize that you see it that way. It was important to bring out the issue about the saints to try to get you to see the vast difference, but you failed to see it. As far as worshipping idols or graven images, I still think you have missed the scriptural inference. In the Book of Exodus and Leviticus for that matter God addressed many areas of pagan worship. The reason was that they were going to be entering these areas that would be saturated with idols and images. What was being referred to in the heavens was the stars and the gods that were created by the pagans using astrology. There were also mythical gods after the planets and even gods that represented things of nature. All of these pagan gods were representations of the things they invented and some things that were carved from stone and wood to look as they envisioned them. Not to mention the fact that they just left Egypt where they had over 500 gods of various sorts in which God directed the 10 plagues at the ten most powerful Egyptian gods. The Golden Calf in Exodus chapter 32 is a good example of the gods that they had remembered from being in Egypt for over 400 years. This was the reason for the great emphasis on not making "other" gods to go before them. Yes, it does also apply to us today and as I mentioned before if a picture of Jesus or a cross ever become an item of worship or exoneration then it is wrong. The key difference is what these items represent as compared to the idols and images in the Old Testament. First, there are not accurate pictures of Jesus, no one knows what He looked like. Second, the cross is not an idol unless it is made to be one. The cross to me is a reminder and representation of what Christ did and the price that was paid for my redemption. That cannot be said of the other idols and images that were being referred to in the Old Testament. There is a vast difference in having a cross and making statues of Mary, the pope, saints, and other figures and then praying to these statues. I never pray to a cross nor do I ever see it as a means or representation of God itself. It is nothing more than a representation of what was used to bring about salvation's price. Catholics pray to Mary, Saints, and exonerate the pope and in that they become idols to them. That is the major difference. If I never seen another cross or picture of Jesus it would not bother me one bit because my faith is not in those things. Take a crucifix or statue of Mary away from a catholic and you might as well commit them. We can make anything on this earth an idol or image if we choose to and I think that God knows that too. You really need to research the vastness of the idols and images that were used in the Old Testament days to really understand this better.

Your question on what church I go to and if I dislike all denominations that do not believe the way I do:

I go to an independent church and I do not agree with ANY Denomination. Not because I think that they don't agree with me, but because they don't agree with the Bible. EVERY denomination is Man-Made and they are not what God intended for HIS Church. They have done nothing but build up walls between the body and the majority of them are too soft and don't present the truth. Every person has their own way of believing and it is not a matter of making everyone believe as I do. IF what they believe can be backed up with scripture then I am in no place to disagree with them.

Your next statement about proving me wrong and your insinuation that I would not be open to scripture: You are wrong, but I have yet to have ONE catholic send me valid scriptures that supported the catholic doctrine. Look at the emails from Richard, he was obviously a devout and intelligent man. Every scripture he provided was in no way proof of what was being addressed. I make the same challenge to ANYONE even you. Show me in the SCRIPTURES where the accusations I make on my page are inaccurate. Show me in the scriptures all the things that I ask for in the catholic pages. Praying to saints, Praying to Mary, the pope being infallible, the immaculate conception of Mary, Mary's assumption into heaven, the rosary, confession, penitence, purgatory, priests remaining unmarried, nuns, tradition on equal level with scriptures, introducing traditions that are contrary to scriptures, kissing the pope's ring, praying to statues, and many more. Show me the proofs of these things in the scriptures and I will become a catholic. That is how confident that they are not in there.

I think you are the one that has not been open minded and look at the scriptures through blinders. You seem to be fairly intelligent Sarah, search the scriptures yourself and see if they don't all point to JESUS, not MARY, not the pope, not saints, not purgatory, it is all about JESUS. Show me just ONE place where the Bible says to pray to Mary or saints, and I will show you many that direct us to JESUS.

Thanks again for your email, in Christ, Adam

Subj: Re: Your page

Date: 12/13/01 12:40:43 PM Central Standard Time

From: betzy30@hotmail.com (Sarah Betzold)

To: ADB4JESUS@aol.com

Read John 6:22-71 (even if you've read it before) and think about it and then read it again...It (to some extent) explains why I am Catholic. Now it seems to me that you assume I have no idea what the Catholic Church is like or that I am "blinded" by all their teachings. I want you to know that is not so. I wasn't raised in a way that molded me into being a Catholic. I know about the past and I know why you say the things you do, but I don't think you relize the way it really is (does that make any sense?)

You keep hammering home this idea that we worship saints, and that praying to them is wrong...but those are problems that I don't see--meaning we don't worship the saints. Furthermore, in your explination of what the Second Commandment meant; none of the saints take the place of God, NONE. I know you have seen Catholic sites, and I want to know how much about the theology you've studied and understand (communion of saints, definition of saints, etc.). The way I look at it, nothing they teach is contrary to the Bible although it might not be explictly stated. Also you said that if the Crucifix were to be worshiped that would be wrong as well. A short analogy...a young man leaves his sweetheart and goes off to war taking one small picture with him. Every day and every spare minute he looks at the picture and kisses it...so is he worshiping the picture? Or is he just remembering what the picture represents? If I were to kiss the Crucifix on my necklace, would I be expressing love for God and Jesus or love for the metal man on the metal cross? Would you consider that worship?

If you ask me (which you didn't but I am going to tell you anyway ;) ) I think the definition of worship has been altered over time, or at least is isn't quite the same as the Greek or Old Testament meaning. I think in order for us to get anywhere we have to be on the same plane. Tell me what you think it is...

As far as refuting all your points with Scripture, let's just test my hypothesis:

Purgatory Hebrews 12:5-12 Matthew 18:34-35 Revelation 21:27 22:3-5 1 Peter 3:18-20 2 Timothy 1:16 & 18

These are just to point out that God does punish us temporarily, we need to be pure to be in God's presence (purification), and that prayers were said for those who died (why pray if they are already going to heaven or hell?)

Now you will do one of two things:

1)Read them and write me back telling me how it's the wrong interpretation, that's not what was meant, the word "Purgatory" was never used...

2)Tell me that these Scriptures aren't as truthful as the ones you have against it, or they aren't as important, or you have more so you will neglect that the Scriptures do (implicitly) talk of a place/state/process similar to the idea of Purgatory. (Like you said no Catholic has ever sent you VALID Scripture...aren't all Scripture valid?)

I ask that you do neither. I don't give these to you for myself, but for you because you asked for some. I don't need to hear why they are wrong, I've had many do that. So you reflect on them, tell me you don't buy it...but don't argue with me against it. That is why I dislike conversation like that...it becomes an arguement, not a discussion.

Also you wanted anyone to prove that the accusations on your page were wrong...well your Scripture is correct, but your veiw of the Church and its teachings are wrong. You prove that worshiping idols is wrong, but we don't worship idols. So in that sense your page is wrong.

I agree that all Scripture points to Jesus, but I fail to see how going through Mary, the saints...or why Purgatory and the Pope take away from seeking Jesus. I think they support it, from what I've seen (what experience do you have with the Catholic Church?).

I appreciate your thoughful comments and the fact you take the time to write me. I have one last question...why don't you look into the answers yourself, instead of challenging others to disprove you? I was on a debate team and I discovered that in order to fully understand your position you must understand your opponent's position. Anyway I look forward to hearing from you again...

Bye Sarah

Subj: Re: Your page

Date: 12/14/01 9:46:14 AM Central Standard Time

From: ADB4JESUS

To: betzy30@hotmail.com

Hello Sarah,

Thanks again for your comments and questions. I have read John 6:22-71 and I still find no place in this scripture where it solidifies the fact that the communion that we participate in are to be actual flesh and blood. In fact in verse 63 Jesus clarifies that it is a spiritual application he is presenting. In 1Corinthians 10: 24-25 it is clear that it is a representation not actual flesh and blood; "this do in remembrance of me"

According to the Revell Bible Dictionary the definition of "Worship" is as follows:

That attitude and those corporate and personal acts of reverence that are the appropriate response of human beings to God's self-revelation. Prayer, songs, and devotions directed to God.

You are correct when you state that the definition and meaning of worship has been altered and the things I have pointed out in the catholic doctrine are prime examples of exactly that.

The scriptures you listed as proof of purgatory are not only out of context but don't even apply to what the subject of purgatory represents. I have asked you to look at the page of emails by Richard and they cover all the scriptures you have listed and many more. Please look at them and the response I made to Richard regarding them. http://members.aol.com/_ht_a/adb4jesus/EmailsfromRichard.htm

You are right that I will write back and tell you how those scriptures do not mean what you try to indicate they do. The reason for that is because not only do I want you to see the truth, but others that may look at this page. You can refer to it as arguing if you like but it is what is called apologetics and there is never room for true believers to allow Biblical errors to go uncontended. I cannot and will not let these gross mis-uses of scripture go without proclaiming the truth. I believe that is exactly what Jesus was doing with the Pharisees and Jewish leaders throughout His ministry. You stated above that John 6: 22-71 is why you are catholic, well Matthew 23 is why I am not.

You asked what experience I have with the catholic church: My mother was raised a catholic and I have had extensive discussions with several priests and other catholics. I have also studied much catholic material to be sure that what I was saying was accurate. I have missals, books on confirmation, catholic bible, and have researched the catholic's own web pages to make sure that my accusations are valid. I don't have to become a demon to know that they are not godly. We are told by Jesus to judge the fruit and that is exactly what I have done not only with catholics but several other religions. If you check out my page you will see that you are not singled out.

As far as your last statement about looking for the answers myself instead of challenging others to disprove me: I do that for a reason, I have studied myself and have researched what I have put on my page. I challenge others to disprove it because I know that the only way they can actually do that is by getting into the Word and by doing so will see the errors themselves. It is the same method Jesus used, He did not condemn them, He just caused them to search out themselves and they condemned themselves by what they found. I have no questions about what I believe or why I believe it. I have not been on a debate team so you are one up on me there. I have spent a lot of time in study over the past 11 years and nothing I say on the page is for my own edification. I get nothing out of the catholic page or any of the other pages. Do you think that I get calls from Mormons or Jehovah's Witnesses, or even catholics wanting to support my ministry? In fact this ministry is totally independent from any church for just that reason. NO church I know of has the guts to say the things I do and put it in a public forum. I do not desire to debate with you I only want you to see the truth and if you are convinced beyond any doubt that your belief is correct then we have nothing to discuss. I only want to discuss these issues with people that are really looking for answers and the truth. Not that I have all truth because I don't, but I do know without a doubt that ALL truth is in the Word. I do know the Word well enough to direct people to it in that respect. I appreciate you comments and your willingness to discuss/debate this with me but that will not accomplish anything unless you truly search the scriptures yourself. Please read the section I recommended on the emails with Richard. In Christ, Adam