The Word on Fire Show - Catholic Faith and Culture WOF 022: The Both/And of Catholicism
May 10, 2016
Bishop Robert Barron, a Catholic bishop and theologian, discusses the 'both/and' nature of Catholicism, emphasizing how it reconciles grace with nature and faith with reason. He explores themes like G.K. Chesterton's visions of the Church, the extreme demands of sin contrasted with mercy, and the harmony between faith and scientific reasoning. Barron also tackles the dichotomy of matter and spirit by referencing contemporary issues, explains how discipline fosters true freedom, and addresses tough biblical passages like that of Ananias and Sapphira.
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Catholic Both‑And Thinking
- Catholic thought habitually holds apparent contraries together without making a diluted compromise.
- Bishop Robert Barron traces this both-and outlook to the Incarnation and classical theologians.
Incarnation Grounds Noncompromise
- The Incarnation models full inclusion: Jesus is fully human and fully divine, not a blend.
- This realism undergirds Catholic resistance to muting either element of paradoxical claims.
Hold High Demands And Full Mercy
- Maintain high moral standards while embracing generous mercy for failures.
- Use the sacrament of confession as a place of full, unconditional forgiveness.
