This video outlines ten key theological differences between Catholicism and Protestantism, tracing the historical divergence back to Martin Luther. The speaker explains each difference with scriptural and historical context, highlighting points of contention regarding the Virgin Mary, the Bible's canon, church structure, the papacy, the Eucharist, saints, scripture's authority, sacraments, salvation, and the afterlife.
The Blessed Virgin Mary: Catholics view Mary as the mother of Jesus and the spiritual mother of all Christians, basing this on scripture and tradition. Protestants generally see Mary as a good woman but not without sin.
Different Bibles: Catholic Bibles contain 72 or 73 books, including books excluded from Protestant Bibles (e.g., Tobit, Judith, Wisdom, Sirach, Baruch, Maccabees).
Church Structure: Catholicism views the church as a monarchy with the Pope as the successor to St. Peter, while Protestantism generally sees the church as more democratic.
The Papacy: Catholics believe the Pope is the successor to St. Peter and holds significant authority, while Protestants reject the infallibility of any earthly figure and emphasize the Bible's sole authority.
Holy Eucharist: Catholics believe the Eucharist is the actual body and blood of Christ (transubstantiation), while Protestants view it as a symbolic memorial.
Saints: Catholics believe in the intercession of saints, invoking their prayers. Protestants generally reject this practice, emphasizing prayer only to or through Jesus.
Authority: Catholics emphasize both Scripture and Tradition as sources of authority, while Protestants adhere to "Sola Scriptura" (Scripture alone).
Number of Sacraments: Catholics recognize seven sacraments, while Protestants generally accept only two: baptism and communion.
Salvation: Protestants emphasize "Sola Fide" (faith alone) as the means of salvation, while Catholics see salvation as a process involving both faith and good works.
Life After Death: Protestants believe in a binary afterlife (heaven or hell). Catholics also include purgatory and limbo.
