Critics of Catholicism/Peter the first pope

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Expert: Elder Greg Madden - 7/15/2006


Question
How can Catholics  believe Peter was the first pope when there is no scriptual proof he was ever in Rome? In fact I cannot find any evidence he was ever in Rome.d

Answer
Standford,
Thanks for your question. I totaly agree with you that there is no Scripture evidence that Peter was never in Rome. But even if he was, this has no bearing on whether or not he was the first "pope" as catholics claim. The catholic church claims to have apostolic succession-an unbroken chain of valid popes that go all the way back to the Apostle Peter.
There is historical evidence that the roman catholic church began with Emperor Constantine. Throughout Church history, there have been many true Christians who were not
catholics, and these Christians were often killed by the
catholic church. We also believe that Peter was just one of the apostles, and that the catholic church only copied and preserved the Bible, which God had already given to us.

I hope this helps.
God Bless!
Elder Greg

Critics of Catholicism

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Elder Greg Madden

Expertise

I am available to answer questions concerning most Biblical doctrines, Catholic beliefs, the gifts and fruit of the Spirit, and the history of the Pentecostal movement. Please understand that I will answer any questions you may have from a Biblical perspective, not a Catholic one.

Experience

I have studied the Catholic religion for many years, and I have discussed questions and issues conserning this faith with those who are followers of the Catholic religion. I attend an independent Pentecostal church for twenty five years, and have served there as an Elder for fourteen years. I am also the new member’s class coordinator. I have had the privilege of ministering God's Word to churches in Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas. In those meetings we have seen the Lord save, heal, deliver, and fill people will His Spirit.

Organizations
I am ordained through Harvest Church, and with the World Harvest Church Ministerial Fellowship. I also am a licensed minister with the State of Oklahoma.

Education/Credentials
I am currantly enrolled with the Ames Bible College.

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