The question of obedience seems to be lurking in the background of a lot of Catholic conversation these days.
When is it no longer a virtue? Is there a point at which we can rebel or abandon ship? What about when there are doubts concerning particular matters or teaching?
These are real issues.
And while there’s no way to address all the facets of obedience on one podcast, there are some basic principles we need to keep in mind.
So after some preliminary remarks and practical advice, I’m going to share with you a lesson on the virtue of obedience from the Science of Sainthood in Next Level Catholic Academy.
Among other things, I’m going to cover:
- Why should authority be followed in the first place?
- Does the Bible have anything to say about obedience?
- What should we do when an issue isn’t clear?
- What is a spiritual key to obedience?
To be honest, when I filmed this, I had no idea how important the topic would become. But given all the confusion in the Church right now, we need to know our responsibility as faithful Catholics.
God bless and enjoy.
Matthew
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8 Responses
Thank you so much Matthew for this on “Obedience” during this time which is much needed. You’ve cleared up and assured me of so much concern and struggles I’ve been having. God bless your work!
I’m glad, Liz. These are difficult times, but there’s a great freedom in proper obedience. God bless you!
We are “not permitted to obey” if authority goes against the Word of God. Could you please expand upon that.
My brother said the Pope allowed worship of the idol Pachamama on the altar in Rome, amongst other things, and the first commandment is we shall not worship false Gods.
Thank you,
Laurie
Without getting into the details of the obviously disturbing Pachamama, we have to make a distinction. What I said was that we’re not permitted to obey something that goes against God’s law. The pope did not order any of us to do anything contrary to divine law. We can always disagree with Church hierarchy with regard to prudence and wisdom with regard to various actions that aren’t matters of defined faith and morals. Did I like it? Of course not. That doesn’t mean he’s not the pope and has authority given him by God. Make sense?
As usual, I love your videos & the messages & teachings. These days, however, I feel like obedience is more difficult when our bishops have overstepped their Divine authority & are forcing us to wear masks to Holy Mass. If we don’t/can’t do as they say, we are made to stay away from Holy Mass. It it a tragedy in our Church and just heart breaking.
Hi everyone
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