May I say that though I am not Catholic, I consider Catholics my brothers (or "brethren" if you prefer). I believe they have errors and some doctines are not based in the word, but I WILL NOT cause a brother to stumble. I think many Churches have errors but I think most are honestly arrived at. There are others that I will not name that are cleverly deceitful, "wolves in sheeps clothing," but I would read the bible with them and pray, or ask them where in the Word they reference a particular doctrine. Regardless, the Body was meant to be one Body. Satan creates the divisions and we empower Satan when we act for purposes other than love. There is a "gentle rebuke" rather than the prideful insistence that sometimes rears it's head. "Let each be sure in their own mind, because each will stand or fall before the Father on his own."
If the discussions could stay civil it would be great...but part of me says Martin Luther would have been banned.
We all believe we are correct...that's why we believe what we believe. Perhaps if we left the personal out and "tested all spirits" against the Word we'd be more Christian in our approach.
One last thought...if a Church legalsim causes our brother's to stumble, should we remain silent? I have attended Pentacostal, Catholic Churches, and have "investigated" the Mormon Church (sat down with missionaries for days discussing the Church. I belonged to a Church for a while I now believe to be a cult (doctrine was not a particularly big issue, but practice and control was). I still learned much that was useful and edifying, and was sad that men had to intrude and control the personal relationship with God. If asked what my issue was with the Church I would respond the way I did to the minister in the cult? "Could you show me the biblical basis? I've looked and can't find it." If the response is anger, as the minister expressed to me (much to the chagrin of the other members who were present) I would do again what I did then...give him a hug, thank him for the time, ask him for his prayers and offer him mine and move on.
We live in difficult times, a time when the Church is under attack. The enemy is inside the gates spreading disinformation and disunity. Our only defense is the "Armor of God." I suspect any Christian should be able to defend doctrine without resorting to the "you hurt my feelings" defense. I also think any Christian should be able to discuss the Word without making it personal. Ask the question. and let the Word Judge.
Me first...was Mary a virgin her whole life, did Jesus have brothers and sisters, what is the biblical basis for the belief? I hope this isn't offensive to anyone...