Understanding the Bible Through the Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church

Overview

Divine revelation is transmitted through Apostolic Tradition, which encompasses the teachings, practices, and writings handed down by the apostles and their successors. This transmission occurs through living Tradition and Sacred Scripture, both of which are closely interconnected and form the basis of the Church's understanding of revelation. The deposit of faith, containing the truths of divine revelation, is entrusted to the entire Church, guided by the Holy Spirit and the Magisterium.

As you deepen your study of Scripture, tools such as a reliable Catholic Study Bible or a simple Scripture journal notebook can support your prayer and reflection, helping you engage more fully with God’s Word.

The Magisterium, led by the Bishop of Rome and the bishops in communion with him, has the authority to interpret and define dogmas connected to divine revelation. Sacred Scripture, inspired by God and containing truths necessary for salvation, is to be read and interpreted with the assistance of the Holy Spirit and in accordance with the teachings of the Church.

Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church nos. 11–24

11. Why and in what way is divine revelation transmitted?

God “desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:4), that is, of Jesus Christ. For this reason, Christ must be proclaimed to all according to his own command, “Go forth and teach all nations” (Matthew 28:19). And this is brought about by Apostolic Tradition.

12. What is Apostolic Tradition?

Apostolic Tradition is the transmission of the message of Christ…

13. In what ways does Apostolic Tradition occur?

Apostolic Tradition occurs in two ways: through the living transmission of the word of God and through Sacred Scripture in written form.

14. What is the relationship between Tradition and Sacred Scripture?

Tradition and Sacred Scripture are bound closely together… They flow out of the same divine well-spring and together make up one sacred deposit of faith.

15. To whom is the deposit of faith entrusted?

The Apostles entrusted the deposit of faith to the whole Church…

16. Who authentically interprets the deposit of faith?

The task of giving an authentic interpretation… belongs to the Magisterium.

17. Relationship between Scripture, Tradition, and the Magisterium

These three are so closely united that one cannot stand without the others…

18. Why does Sacred Scripture teach the truth?

Because God himself is the author of Sacred Scripture…

Students and readers may find it helpful to also use a Bible commentary or a concise Catholic dictionary to better understand difficult passages and theological terms.

19. How is Sacred Scripture to be read?

Scripture must be read with the help of the Holy Spirit… within the living Tradition of the Church…

20. What is the Canon of Scripture?

The Canon of Scripture is the complete list of books recognized by the Church…

21. Importance of the Old Testament

Christians venerate the Old Testament as the true word of God…

22. Importance of the New Testament

The New Testament conveys the ultimate truth of divine revelation…

23. Unity of the Old and the New Testaments

Scripture is one because God’s plan of salvation is one…

24. Role of Scripture in the life of the Church

Sacred Scripture gives support and vigor to the life of the Church…

Summary

Divine revelation, the communication of truths about God and salvation… serving as a source of spiritual guidance and enlightenment.


Comments

Popular Posts