23/09/2024
Open Letter to My Catholic Friends and Loved Ones
Dear Friends,
I write this letter not out of judgment, but out of love and concern for your spiritual journey. I have spent time praying for clarity and seeking God’s wisdom, and I feel compelled to share something close to my heart: the importance of turning to Jesus alone for salvation, rather than relying on tradition.
The Bible is our ultimate guide, and it is essential that we base our faith and practices on what Scripture says. Jesus Himself teaches us to follow Him and not be weighed down by the traditions of men.
Seek the Truth in Scripture
It is crucial to seek the truth directly from God's Word, which is the foundation for our faith. The Bible encourages us to examine everything in the light of truth, ensuring that our beliefs align with what Jesus teaches.
John 8:32
“And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”
Jesus promises that knowing the truth will set us free. His Word provides the path to eternal life and reveals His will for us.
Consider these passages from the King James Version (KJV):
Mark 7:7-8
“Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men.”
Jesus warns us about replacing God’s commandments with human traditions. It’s vital that we focus on what God’s Word says rather than man-made rituals that may take us away from the true gospel.
John 14:6
“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
There is no other mediator between us and God except Jesus Christ. Salvation is found in Him alone, not in any church practice or tradition.
1 Timothy 2:5
“For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.”
The role of a mediator belongs to Jesus alone, not to saints, Mary, or any other figure. He is the one who bridges the gap between us and the Father.
Ephesians 2:8-9
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
Our salvation comes by grace, through faith in Christ, not through the observance of sacraments or religious traditions.
Matthew 15:3
“But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition?”
Jesus confronted the religious leaders of His time about their traditions that violated God’s commands. Today, we must examine whether any traditions we follow do the same.
Seek Jesus Personally
I urge you to search the Scriptures for yourselves and seek a personal relationship with Jesus. He is enough—His sacrifice on the cross is sufficient for our salvation. Religion and traditions can never replace the power of Christ’s work.
Please know that I am praying for you and that my desire is for all of us to grow closer to Jesus, fully grounded in His Word and grace.
With love in Christ,
A Concered Friend
