Episode 1678: 10 Reasons there is only one Christian and that's Catholic

St. Edmund Campion's book "Decem Rationes" (Ten Reasons):
Decem Rationes, also known as "Ten Reasons," is a theological treatise written by English Jesuit priest and martyr Edmund Campion. It was first published in 1581, shortly before Campion's arrest and execution for treason. The book is a defense of the Catholic Church against the Protestant Reformation, and it is considered one of the most important works of Catholic apologetics of the 16th century.

In Decem Rationes, Campion presents ten arguments in favor of the Catholic Church. His arguments are based on Scripture, tradition, the authority of the Pope, and the historical continuity of the Church. Campion also addresses a number of common Protestant objections to the Catholic Church, such as the veneration of saints, the doctrine of purgatory, and the use of Latin in the liturgy.

Decem Rationes was a controversial work in its own time, but it has also been praised for its clarity, logic, and erudition. The book has been reprinted many times and translated into many languages. It is still considered a valuable resource for Catholic apologetics today.

Here is a summary of the ten arguments presented in Decem Rationes:

1. The true Church of Christ must be visible and known to all.
Argument 1: The true Church of Christ must be visible and known to all.

Campion argues that the true Church of Christ must be visible and known to all because Christ intended for his Church to be a beacon of light and truth in the world. He points to several passages in Scripture that support this claim, such as Matthew 5:14, which says that Christians are "the light of the world," and John 18:37, in which Jesus says that he came into the world "to bear witness to the truth."

Campion also argues that the Church must be visible in order to fulfill its mission of teaching, sanctifying, and governing the faithful. If the Church were invisible, then people would not be able to know its teachings, receive its sacraments, or submit to its authority.

The Protestant Reformers, on the other hand, believed that the true Church of Christ was invisible and known only to God. They argued that the visible Church was corrupt and apostate, and that it was no longer the true Church of Christ.

Campion counters this argument by pointing out that the Protestant Reformers' definition of the Church is too narrow. They only consider the Church to be composed of the elect, that is, those who are predestined to salvation. However, Campion argues that the Church must include all baptized Christians, regardless of their state of grace.

Campion also argues that the Protestant Reformers' concept of the invisible Church is unbiblical. The Bible never teaches that the true Church is invisible. On the contrary, the Bible speaks of the Church as a visible, tangible reality.

In conclusion, Campion argues that the true Church of Christ must be visible and known to all. He bases his argument on Scripture, tradition, and reason. His argument is a powerful defense of the Catholic Church against the Protestant doctrine of the invisible Church.
2. The true Church of Christ must be one and undivided.
Argument 2: The true Church of Christ must be one and undivided.

Campion argues that the true Church of Christ must be one and undivided because Christ established a single Church with a single head, Peter the Apostle. He points to several passages in Scripture that support this claim, such as Matthew 16:18, in which Jesus says to Peter, "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church," and John 10:16, in which Jesus says that he will gather his sheep "into one flock and there will be one shepherd."

Campion also argues that the Church must be one in order to fulfill its mission of uniting all believers in Christ. If the Church were divided, then it would be a sign that Christ's work of redemption had not been fully accomplished.

The Protestant Reformers, on the other hand, believed that the true Church of Christ could be divided into many different denominations. They argued that each denomination was a true Church of Christ, as long as it held to the essential teachings of the Gospel.

Campion counters this argument by pointing out that the Protestant Reformers' definition of the Church is too broad. They include any group of Christians who profess faith in Christ, regardless of their beliefs or practices. However, Campion argues that the Church must be one not only in its faith but also in its organization and governance.

Campion also argues that the Protestant Reformers' concept of the divided Church is unbiblical. The Bible never teaches that the true Church can be divided. On the contrary, the Bible speaks of the Church as a unified body, with one head, one faith, and one baptism.

In conclusion, Campion argues that the true Church of Christ must be one and undivided. He bases his argument on Scripture, tradition, and reason. His argument is a powerful defense of the Catholic Church against the Protestant doctrine of the divided Church.
3. The true Church of Christ must be Catholic, that is, spread throughout the world.
Argument 3: The true Church of Christ must be Catholic, that is, spread throughout the world.

Campion argues that the true Church of Christ must be Catholic, meaning "universal," and spread throughout the world because Christ intended for his Church to be a global community that would encompass all people from all nations. He points to several passages in Scripture that support this claim, such as Matthew 28:19, in which Jesus commands his disciples to "go therefore and make disciples of all nations," and Acts 2:9-11, where the Holy Spirit descends upon people from every nation on Earth.

Campion also argues that the Church must be Catholic in order to fulfill its mission of proclaiming the Gospel to all people. If the Church were confined to a single nation or region, then it would not be able to fulfill its mandate to spread the message of salvation to the ends of the earth.

The Protestant Reformers, on the other hand, believed that the true Church of Christ could be confined to a single nation or region. They argued that the Church was not defined by its geographical extent but by the purity of its faith.

Campion counters this argument by pointing out that the Protestant Reformers' definition of the Church is too narrow. They only consider the Church to be composed of those who hold to the correct beliefs, regardless of their location. However, Campion argues that the Church must be Catholic not only in its faith but also in its geographical reach.

Campion also argues that the Protestant Reformers' concept of the limited Church is unbiblical. The Bible never teaches that the true Church can be confined to a single nation or region. On the contrary, the Bible speaks of the Church as a universal community, spread throughout the world, and reaching all people from every nation.

In conclusion, Campion argues that the true Church of Christ must be Catholic, meaning "universal," and spread throughout the world. He bases his argument on Scripture, tradition, and reason. His argument is a powerful defense of the Catholic Church against the Protestant doctrine of the limited Church.
4. The true Church of Christ must be apostolic, that is, founded by the Apostles and their successors.
Campion argues that the true Church of Christ must be apostolic, meaning "founded by the Apostles," and led by their successors because Christ established his Church upon the Apostles as its foundation. He points to several passages in Scripture that support this claim, such as Matthew 16:18-19, in which Jesus says to Peter, "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven," and John 14:16, in which Jesus promises to send the Holy Spirit to his disciples "to guide you into all truth."

Campion also argues that the Church must be apostolic in order to preserve the purity of its faith and teaching. If the Church were not founded upon the Apostles, then it would not be able to guarantee the authenticity of its doctrines or the validity of its sacraments.

The Protestant Reformers, on the other hand, believed that the true Church of Christ could exist without the authority of the Apostles or their successors. They argued that the Church was founded upon Christ alone, and that the Bible was the sole infallible source of Christian teaching.

Campion counters this argument by pointing out that the Protestant Reformers' definition of the Church is too narrow. They only consider the Church to be composed of those who hold to the correct beliefs, regardless of their source. However, Campion argues that the Church must be apostolic not only in its faith but also in its authority.

Campion also argues that the Protestant Reformers' concept of the non-apostolic Church is unbiblical. The Bible never teaches that the true Church can exist without the authority of the Apostles or their successors. On the contrary, the Bible speaks of the Church as an apostolic community, founded upon the Apostles and built upon their teachings.

In conclusion, Campion argues that the true Church of Christ must be apostolic, meaning "founded by the Apostles," and led by their successors. He bases his argument on Scripture, tradition, and reason. His argument is a powerful defense of the Catholic Church against the Protestant doctrine of the non-apostolic Church.
5. The true Church of Christ must be holy, that is, free from error and sin.
Campion's Argument for Holiness

Campion asserts that the true Church of Christ must embody holiness, meaning it must be free from error and sin. He bases his argument on several key pillars:

The Divine Nature of the Church: The Church, as the body of Christ, is inherently holy and infused with divine grace. Christ, the head of the Church, is sinless and perfect, and his holiness permeates the Church, making it a beacon of purity and truth.

The Mission of the Church: The Church's primary mission is to sanctify its members, leading them towards salvation and eternal life. This mission requires that the Church itself be holy, providing a model of holiness for its adherents.

The Teachings of the Church: The Church's teachings, rooted in Scripture and Tradition, are divinely inspired and guide believers towards a life of holiness. The Church's doctrines and practices promote virtue, righteousness, and moral uprightness.

The Lives of the Saints: The Church's rich history is adorned with countless saints, individuals who have attained a remarkable degree of holiness. Their lives serve as exemplars of the Church's sanctifying power and the potential for holiness within every believer.

Countering Protestant Objections

Campion addresses the Protestant objection that the Church cannot be holy due to the sins of its members. He acknowledges that individuals within the Church, including clergy, may falter and commit sins. However, he emphasizes that the Church's holiness is not based on the perfection of its individual members but on the divine grace that permeates the Church as a whole.

Conclusion

Campion's argument for the holiness of the Church underscores the essential nature of holiness in defining the true Church of Christ. A Church that cannot lead its members towards holiness and embody the purity of its teachings cannot be considered the true Church established by Christ. Campion's work serves as a powerful reminder of the Church's calling to holiness and its role in guiding believers towards a life of grace and virtue.
6. The true Church of Christ must have the marks of the true Church, such as miracles, prophecies, and martyrdom.
Campion's Argument for the Marks of the True Church

Campion asserts that the true Church of Christ must be discernible by its unique marks, evident signs that distinguish it from other religious groups. He identifies three primary marks of the true Church: miracles, prophecies, and martyrdom.

Miracles: Miracles, supernatural events that defy natural laws, serve as tangible manifestations of God's power and the authenticity of the true Church. Campion cites numerous miracles recorded in Scripture and Church history, including healings, resurrections, and extraordinary occurrences, as evidence of the Church's divine origin.

Prophecies: Prophecies, divinely inspired foretellings of future events, provide guidance and confirmation of the true Church's teachings. Campion points to fulfilled prophecies in the Old Testament and the life of Christ, as well as ongoing prophetic insights within the Church, as testaments to its divine connection.

Martyrdom: Martyrdom, the willingness to endure suffering and death for the sake of one's faith, demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the true Church's members. Campion highlights the countless martyrs throughout history who have laid down their lives for their beliefs, their sacrifices serving as a powerful testament to the Church's truth.

Addressing Protestant Objections

Campion addresses the Protestant objection that miracles and prophecies have ceased in the modern era. He argues that while the frequency of these occurrences may have diminished, they continue to manifest in the lives of believers and in the Church's ongoing work.

Regarding martyrdom, Campion acknowledges that persecution and martyrdom are not as prevalent in modern times as they were in the early Church. However, he emphasizes that the willingness to stand for one's faith, even in the face of adversity, remains a defining characteristic of the true Church.

Conclusion

Campion's argument for the marks of the true Church provides a framework for identifying and understanding the Church's authenticity. These marks, evident throughout history and in the ongoing life of the Church, serve as beacons of truth and guidance for believers seeking to discern the true Church of Christ.
7. The true Church of Christ must be the guardian of Scripture and tradition.
Campion's Argument for the Guardianship of Scripture and Tradition

Campion asserts that the true Church of Christ must be entrusted with the preservation, interpretation, and transmission of both Scripture and tradition. He argues that the Church's unique role as the guardian of these divine sources is essential for maintaining the purity and integrity of the Christian faith.

Scripture and Tradition as Pillars of Faith: Campion emphasizes that Scripture and tradition are not separate entities but rather two complementary pillars of the Christian faith. Scripture, the written word of God, provides the foundation of belief, while tradition, the unwritten teachings and practices handed down from the Apostles, offers a living interpretation and application of Scripture.

The Church's Role in Preserving Scripture: The Church, from its inception, has been responsible for preserving the original texts of Scripture, safeguarding them from loss or corruption. Through careful transcription and dissemination, the Church has ensured that the word of God remains accessible to generations of believers.

The Church's Role in Interpreting Scripture: The Church, guided by the Holy Spirit and the teachings of the Apostles, possesses the authority to interpret Scripture faithfully. Through its Magisterium, the teaching authority of the Church, it provides guidance on the proper understanding and application of Scripture, preventing misinterpretations and distortions.

The Church's Role in Transmitting Tradition: The Church, as the custodian of apostolic tradition, has faithfully transmitted the teachings, practices, and customs passed down from the Apostles. Through its liturgies, sacraments, and pastoral guidance, the Church ensures that the living tradition of the faith remains vibrant and accessible to believers.

Addressing Protestant Objections

Campion addresses the Protestant objection that the Church's authority over Scripture and tradition undermines the principle of sola scriptura, the belief that Scripture alone is the infallible source of Christian doctrine. He argues that sola scriptura, when interpreted in isolation, can lead to a fragmented and subjective understanding of the faith.

Campion asserts that the Church's role as the guardian of Scripture and tradition is not intended to diminish the authority of Scripture but rather to safeguard its integrity and ensure its proper interpretation. The Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, provides a unified and authoritative framework for understanding and applying Scripture, preventing individual misinterpretations and preserving the unity of the faith.

Conclusion

Campion's argument for the Church's guardianship of Scripture and tradition highlights the essential role of the Church in maintaining the purity and authenticity of the Christian faith. The Church's preservation, interpretation, and transmission of Scripture and tradition ensure that the word of God and the teachings of Christ remain accessible and faithfully understood by generations of believers.
8. The true Church of Christ must have the power to forgive sins and to excommunicate sinners.
Campion asserts that the true Church of Christ must possess the authority to forgive sins and to excommunicate sinners. He argues that this authority is essential for the Church's role as the instrument of salvation, providing a means for individuals to reconcile with God and restore their communion with the Church.

The Church's Commission to Forgive: Campion emphasizes that Christ, the founder of the Church, bestowed upon his apostles the power to forgive sins. This power, known as the 'power of the keys,' is evident in passages such as Matthew 16:19 and John 20:23.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation: Campion highlights the Sacrament of Reconciliation, also known as Confession, as the primary means through which the Church exercises the power to forgive sins. Through this sacrament, individuals confess their sins to a priest, receive absolution, and are reconciled with God and the Church.

The Church's Authority to Excommunicate: Campion affirms that the Church possesses the authority to excommunicate, or separate, unrepentant sinners from the community of believers. This act is not punitive but rather remedial, aiming to bring about repentance and reconciliation.

The Church's Role in Spiritual Healing: Campion emphasizes that the Church's authority in matters of sin and repentance is not about judgment or condemnation but about spiritual healing and restoration. The Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, seeks to lead individuals towards holiness and reconciliation with God.

Addressing Protestant Objections

Campion addresses the Protestant objection that the Church's power to forgive sins and to excommunicate undermines the principle of sola fide, the belief that faith alone is sufficient for salvation. He argues that sola fide, when interpreted in isolation, can lead to a minimalist approach to repentance and a neglect of the importance of confession and reconciliation.

Campion asserts that the Church's exercise of its authority in matters of sin and repentance is not intended to diminish the power of faith but rather to complement and strengthen it. The Church, through its sacraments and pastoral guidance, provides a framework for individuals to express their faith in concrete actions, including confession, repentance, and reconciliation, fostering a deeper spiritual transformation.

Conclusion

Campion's argument for the Church's power to forgive sins and to excommunicate sinners highlights the essential role of the Church in the spiritual lives of its members. The Church, through its authority and pastoral care, provides a means for individuals to seek forgiveness, reconcile with God, and grow in holiness. This authority is not a usurpation of God's power but rather a reflection of Christ's commission to his Church to continue his ministry of reconciliation and healing.

9. The true Church of Christ must have the authority to define matters of faith and morals.
Campion asserts that the true Church of Christ must possess the authority to define and teach matters of faith and morals. This authority, known as the Magisterium, is essential for maintaining the unity and integrity of the Christian faith.

The Church's Commission to Teach: Campion emphasizes that Christ, the head of the Church, bestowed upon his apostles the teaching authority to hand down his teachings and to guide the Church in matters of faith and morals. This commission is evident in passages such as Matthew 28:19-20 and John 14:26.

The Church's Preservation of Apostolic Tradition: Campion highlights that the Church, from its inception, has faithfully preserved and transmitted the teachings and practices passed down from the Apostles. This unbroken chain of tradition, known as Sacred Tradition, provides a continuous and authoritative source of guidance for the Church's teaching.

The Church's Role in Interpreting Scripture: Campion asserts that the Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, possesses the authority to interpret Scripture faithfully in light of Sacred Tradition. Through its Magisterium, the Church provides authoritative guidance on the proper understanding and application of Scripture, preventing misinterpretations and distortions.

The Church's Protection of Morals: Campion emphasizes that the Church, in its role as the guardian of morality, has the authority to define and teach moral principles based on divine revelation and natural law. This authority is essential for safeguarding the ethical well-being of its members and promoting a just and humane society.

Addressing Protestant Objections

Campion addresses the Protestant objection that the Church's Magisterium undermines the principle of sola scriptura, the belief that Scripture alone is the infallible source of Christian doctrine. He argues that sola scriptura, when interpreted in isolation, can lead to a fragmented and subjective understanding of the faith, with individuals relying on their own interpretations of Scripture, often leading to doctrinal disputes and divisions.

Campion asserts that the Church's exercise of its Magisterium is not intended to diminish the authority of Scripture but rather to safeguard its integrity and ensure its proper interpretation. The Church, guided by the Holy Spirit and the teachings of the Apostles, provides a unified and authoritative framework for understanding and applying Scripture, preventing individual misinterpretations and preserving the unity of the faith.

Conclusion

Campion's argument for the Church's Magisterium highlights the essential role of the Church in maintaining the unity, integrity, and moral compass of the Christian faith. The Church, through its teaching authority, provides a clear and authoritative guide for believers in matters of faith and morals, fostering a shared understanding of the Christian message and promoting a life aligned with God's will.
10. The true Church of Christ must be the judge of controversies.
Campion asserts that the true Church of Christ must possess the authority to resolve disputes and controversies that arise within the faith. This authority, known as the power of judgment, is essential for maintaining unity and preventing schism within the Church.

The Church's Commission to Judge: Campion emphasizes that Christ, the head of the Church, bestowed upon his apostles the authority to judge and resolve disputes. This commission is evident in passages such as Matthew 18:15-17 and John 21:15-17.

The Church's Role in Settling Disputes: Campion highlights that the Church, from its inception, has been responsible for resolving disputes and controversies that have arisen within the faith. Through councils, synods, and the guidance of the Magisterium, the Church has provided authoritative judgments on doctrinal matters, preventing the spread of error and fostering unity among believers.

The Church's Protection of Unity: Campion asserts that the Church's power of judgment is not intended to suppress individual freedom or impose uniformity but rather to preserve the unity of the faith and protect its integrity from the disruptive effects of internal divisions and heresies.

Addressing Protestant Objections

Campion addresses the Protestant objection that the Church's power of judgment diminishes the role of individual conscience and the freedom of interpretation. He argues that while individual conscience is important, it cannot be the sole arbiter of truth in matters of faith. The Church, guided by the Holy Spirit and the teachings of the Apostles, provides a necessary framework for interpreting Scripture and resolving disputes, preventing individual misinterpretations and preserving the unity of the faith.

Campion asserts that the Church's exercise of its power of judgment is not intended to stifle individual thought or inquiry but rather to promote a shared understanding of the Christian message and to safeguard the faith from the dangers of fragmentation and error. The Church, through its councils, synods, and pastoral guidance, seeks to foster a climate of respectful dialogue and discernment, leading to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the unity of the faith.

Conclusion

Campion's argument for the Church's power of judgment highlights the essential role of the Church in safeguarding the unity and integrity of the Christian faith. The Church, through its authority to resolve controversies and disputes, provides a unifying force that prevents internal divisions and preserves the shared understanding of the Christian message. This authority is not a usurpation of individual conscience but rather a means to foster a harmonious and unified community of believers, committed to the truth of the Gospel
Campion argues that the Catholic Church is the only Church that meets all of these criteria. He concludes that Catholics have a duty to remain in the Catholic Church and to avoid all forms of schism and heresy.

Decem Rationes is a powerful and persuasive defense of the Catholic Church. It is a valuable resource for anyone who is interested in learning more about the Catholic faith or who is considering converting to Catholicism.