Are Catholics Christians? (Jesus, hell, doctrine, church, agnostic)

[The Voice of Reason]

Upon advice from the moderator (Mr. Sprinkles), I am starting a thread to discuss whether Catholics are Christians.
To be honest, I would say that it is utter nonsense to even be discussing this. This debate stems from the post of a member that is making the distinction between "Christians" and "Catholics". For my limited knowledge, it would seem that Catholics have more right to make the claim that they are Christian than any of the Protestant faith. As an Agnostic, I don't really care where this goes, but I'd hate to see an entire generation of Protestants grow up thinking that Catholics were something other than Christian.

TVOR

[Master Vigil]

it is true that catholics were one of the first christians. After the gnostics that is. But still, everything the protestants believe were really laid down originally and formally by the catholics. There may be some things they disagree on, but the main premise was a catholic premise.

[The Voice of Reason]

Thanks for the input Master. That is basically the way I see it. I'd love to get more input on this - especially from the stronger Catholics.

TVOR

[Ardhanariswar]

many baptists argue thier roots go up to the first century.

[Scott1]

Hello all,

Well, my answer to the thread question is, of course, yes! I do agree with TVOR that it is sad that history had been so ingnored as to make this question needed.

Originally Posted by Master Vigil

it is true that catholics were one of the first christians. After the gnostics that is.

After the gnostics......?.... no, not quite. The Catholic Church WAS Christianity for 1500 years before the "Reformation". The gnostics were 1st and 2nd century heretics.... St. Peter, Paul and the rest of early Catholics came a BIT before that!
All one needs to do is look at the history of early Christianity to see the truth. The Catholic Church is the ONLY universal Christian church that has existed since the time of Jesus. EVERY other Christian church is an offshoot of the Catholic Church.
ONLY the Catholic Church existed today, and in the tenth century, in the fifth century, and in the first century faithfully teaching the doctrines given by Christ to the apostles, omitting nothing.

Peace,
Scott

[The Voice of Reason]

Sog -

Thanks for the input, my friend - that is exactly the historical angle I was looking for. I thought that was right. As was said to me before on another thread - thanks - have some frubals.

TVOR

[Dave]

Catholics are definitely Christians. It annoys me when I hear people say stuff like "Catholics and Christians ... " when what they really should be saying is "Catholics and OTHER Christians ..." (emphasis added).

[The Voice of Reason]

Dave,

I only named the thread as I did because this very argument was growing in another thread. I agree compleletly with your position - others will not. I actually started this thread hoping that some of the members with more knowledge in this area (like SOG) would weigh in with their take on it.

May you find peace with God - whatever form he does (or doesn't) take for you.

TVOR

[civilcynic]

I was raised Catholic and always considered myself Christian. I also view Protestants as Christians. As far as I am concerned, Christians are individuals who believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and have that as a very integral part of their faith.

Now I have heard of some Protestants state that Catholics are not Christians and, although I have not personally heard it, I am sure some Catholics have stated that Protestants are not Christians. I have to admit that when this occurs (which has been rare), I am surprised but find it irrelevant. Usually, it is simple ignorance rather than intolerance and a little patient education goes a long way.

[Linus]

I agree with those of you who believe that catholics are christians, because they claim to follow Christ. But I do not believe the catholic church has any valid religious authority.