Illuminator
Well-Known Member
The Church is BOTH physical and spiritual. Your Gnosticism doesn't fly. Neither does your Nestorianism.ERROR, the church was built, which is Spiritual, Mary is phyical. so that want fly.
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The Church is BOTH physical and spiritual. Your Gnosticism doesn't fly. Neither does your Nestorianism.ERROR, the church was built, which is Spiritual, Mary is phyical. so that want fly.
"theotokos", really?lk 1:43 mother of God
Jesus also later directly asks so that there was no confusion regarding His mission, "Who is my mother? and who are my brethren?" (Matthew 12:48; Mark 3:33)
What does even the Angel Gabriel say in the Gospel of Luke?
Let us continue further still. For we shall see that the so-called (Hyper Dulia) 'veneration' of Mary is usurping the worship of God:
There is no scripture which reveals that Mary was 'assumed into Heaven', and the Apostle John wrote nothing of it in scripture and he was the one given charge of her and she of him, and he outlived her.
We can also pause and rethink the position of Mary a little more.
Now, Roman Catholicism, has a more sinister theology in regards Mary, as they teach that she is the Ark of the Covenant, and the Woman of Revelation 12.
Additionally, if Roman Catholicism's theology desires to have this “woman” of Revelation 12 as 'Mary', then do they desire also to teach as the scripture does, that this “woman” of Revelation 12 had more descendants, as this “woman”, being the people of God throughout the ages, has numerous 'children', Jesus, being the “firstborn” of many, while the actual Mary had only one child, Jesus:
Seventh Day Adventism is obsessed with misrepresenting and teaching lies about Catholicism. Their inflammatory rhetoric is a constant nuisance on this board. You have no credibility.Additionally, if Roman Catholicism's theology desires to have this “woman” of Revelation 12 as 'Mary', then do they desire also to teach as the scripture does, that this “woman” of Revelation 12 had more descendants, as this “woman”, being the people of God throughout the ages, has numerous 'children', Jesus, being the “firstborn” of many, while the actual Mary had only one child, Jesus:
Romans 8:29 KJB - For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
Revelation 12:17 KJB - And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.
Colossians 1:15 KJB - Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:
Colossians 1:18 KJB - And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.
Paul solves the issue for us, line upon line: “... head of the body … who is the beginning … have the preeminence.”
Now, consider the greater context of the whole of scripture, for Christ Jesus can be said to fulfill both meanings, in that not only is:
[1] Jesus is the “firstborn”, being the preeminent one:
Romans 9:5 KJB - Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.
Colossians 1:16 KJB - For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:
Colossians 2:10 KJB - And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:
Ephesians 1:21 KJB - Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:
Ephesians 1:22 KJB - And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,
Ephesians 1:23 KJB - Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
Ephesians 3:9 KJB - And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:
Ephesians 4:15 KJB - But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
Hebrews 7:26 KJB - For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;
John 1:3 KJB - All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
[2] Jesus is also the “firstborn” of the Woman/Church:
Isaiah 9:6 KJB - For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Luke 2:11 KJB - For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Hebrews 2:10 KJB - For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.
Revelation 12:1 KJB - And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:
Revelation 12:2 KJB - And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered.
Revelation 12:3 KJB - And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.
Revelation 12:4 KJB - And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born.
Revelation 12:5 KJB - And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne.
Revelation 12:13 KJB - And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.
Furthermore, Roman Catholicism's theology at this point, ignores that “a great red Dragon” was also “in heaven” with “the woman”:
Revelation 12:3 KJB - And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.
Do you begin to see that through such a confusing (1 Corinthians 14:33) theology that the Devil himself is in Heaven with 'Mary'? In fact, this is exactly what the devil wants, since he masquerades as the apparitional 'mary' on earth.
While the devil had access to the gates of Heaven once again (Job 1:6-12, 2:1-7; 1 Kings 22:19-24; 2 Chronicles 18:18-23; Luke 22:31; John 19:11), when Adam surrendered his steward-dominion (Genesis 1:24-31, 2:7-25; Psalms 8:4-6; Micah 4:8) over to him, it was at the Cross in AD 31 (Romans 5:6; Revelation 12:10), that the devil was permanently cast down, and no longer has access any more to the gates of Heaven, and is permanently stuck down here in “the pit”, pacing back and forth, until his time to be executed (Proverbs 28:15; Ezekiel 22:25; 1 Peter 5:8).
For more on Revelation 12, see the full study here:
https://archive.org/download/revelation-12-the-great-controversy/Revelation 12 – The Great Controversy.pptx
ERROR, don't need to fly, but stand aganist the gates of hell...The Church is BOTH physical and spiritual. Your Gnosticism doesn't fly. Neither does your Nestorianism.
"theotokos", really?
Let us take a look at the scriptural (KJB) “Mary” [Matthew 1:16,18,20, 2:11, 13:55; Mark 6:3; Luke 1:27,30,34,38,39,41,46,56, 2:5,16,19,34; Acts 1:14], “the mother of Jesus” [John 2:1,3; Acts 1:14; see also “his mother” - Matthew 1:18, 2:11; Luke 2:34,43; John 19:25; and “mother” - also John 6:42] who was “espoused to Joseph”.
We are going to look at the scriptures in what they themselves have to say about her and what they do not say about her, for there is at this time a persistent theology which pervades much of the Christian world which claims to have support [from the Bible] for an idea that has been defined and termed as: “theotokos” [literally “God-Bearer”, or “one who gives birth to God” and/or also loosely given as “Mother of God”; being a “title”].
Let us look very closely at the scriptures to see if this “title” is accurate or is instead dangerous.
The first question that should be asked is this, “Is the “title” “theotokos” ever itself given anywhere at all in any of the Scriptures by anyone?” Search as we will, the answer comes back to us as a plain, “No.” Though not convincing in and of itself, let us remember this “silence” and come back to this point later.
The next question that should be asked is this, “Is Mary ever called by the appellation or designated with the title of “Mother of God” [“God” being the English for the Greek [Tr.] word “Theos”] anywhere at all in any of the Scriptures by anyone?” Search as we will, the answer comes back as before to us as a plain, “No.” Again not convincing in and of itself, but let us again remember also this “silence” and come back to this point later.
Let us now consider a few statements by the Roman Catholic theological position and teaching on this subject of the “theotokos”, for it is said that:
"… Elizabeth is the first to call Mary by her most honourable title "Mother of God …" [Roman Catholic Online Encyclopedia; “V”; "The Blessed Virgin Mary"; subsection “The Visitation”] - CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: The Blessed Virgin Mary
It is taught by outward (catechumen) Catholicism that she is not the 'mother of divinity' (well and good), yet there is more said inwardly by the dogma, with hints all over the place at something more, and even openly stated with more:
"… As Mary was truly the mother of Jesus, and as Jesus was truly God from the first moment of His conception, Mary is truly the mother of God. … Theotokos …" [Roman Catholic Online Encyclopedia; “V”; "The Blessed Virgin Mary"; subsection “Mary's divine motherhood”] - CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: The Blessed Virgin Mary
Let us look at the first quote again and ask yet another question. “Did Elizabeth [the cousin of Mary] ever call Mary by the “title” “Mother of God” in any part of the Scriptures?” Search as we will yet again, and the answer yet comes back to us as a plain, “No.”
Where then does the Roman Catholic theological position obtain the slightest ground from Scripture to say that Elizabeth says such?
Luke 1:43 is quoted, so we had better be careful to look at it:
Luke 1:43:
Luk 1:43 (KJB) And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
Luk 1:43 (KJB w/ Strong's) AndG2532 whenceG4159 is thisG5124 to me,G3427 thatG2443 theG3588 motherG3384 of myG3450 LordG2962 should comeG2064 toG4314 me?G3165
Luk 1:43 (GNT TR) και ποθεν μοι τουτο ινα ελθη η μητηρ του κυριου μου προς με
Luk 1:43 (GNT TR w/ Strong's & Robinsons Codes) καιG2532 CONJ ποθενG4159 ADV-I μοιG1473 P-1DS τουτοG3778 D-NSN ιναG2443 CONJ ελθηG2064 V-2AAS-3S ηG3588 T-NSF μητηρG3384 N-NSF τουG3588 T-GSM κυριουG2962 N-GSM μουG1473 P-1GS προςG4314 PREP μεG1473 P-1AS
Luke 1:43 (Stephen's 1550 TR) kai poqen moi touto ina elqh h mhthr tou kuriou mou proV me
Luke 1:43 (Byzantine Majority TR) - kai poqen moi touto ina elqh h mhthr tou kuriou mou proV me
Luke 1:43 (Alexandrian Greek) - kai poqen moi touto ina elqh h mhthr tou kuriou mou proV eme
Luk 1:43 (Jerome's Latin Vulgate) et unde hoc mihi ut veniat mater Domini mei ad me
Luk 1:43 (Clementine Vulgate) Et unde hoc mihi ut veniat mater Domini mei ad me?
Luk 1:43 (Douay Rheims Jesuit) And whence is this to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
There is not a single MSS/Codice/Papyri, etc, let alone a translation in English that reads "mother of God" or "mhthr tou theos" in Luke 1:43:
Luke 1:43 - Bible Gateway
Does the text read from the English or Tr. Greek that Mary was designated with the “title” “Mother of God” by Elizabeth? [Remember, we are looking for the words “mhthr tou theou mou” [Theos/God].]
The text obviously does not read the way it is claimed [intimated] that it does, for it plainly reads, “...mhthr tou kuriou mou...” [“...mother of my Lord...”]. This passage is supposed to be the strongest support pillar upholding the “theotokos” theological position, yet the pillar is non-existent, as is the word “theou”.
As we have seen by the Scriptures, Mary is called the “mother of Jesus” [John 2:1,3; Acts 1:14] but never once designated with the “title” “mother of God”.
It is not possible for Mary to be the "mother of God", since God exists eternally before her, and had no beginning, and is "without mother" (Hebrews 7:3, but even here 'catholics' will attempt something else, though they err in both) and is “...from everlasting...” [Micah 5:2;p etc] even “...to everlasting...” [Psalms 90:2;p etc] and also eternally existing with the “Father” [ref: John 1:1, 17:5].
To give the title “mother of God” to Mary is unbiblical, and she herself would have never have wanted it, being the humble handmaiden and servant of God. Many women, who believed in scripture, were blessed (Genesis 1:22, etc).
"theotokos", really?
Let us take a look at the scriptural (KJB) “Mary” [Matthew 1:16,18,20, 2:11, 13:55; Mark 6:3; Luke 1:27,30,34,38,39,41,46,56, 2:5,16,19,34; Acts 1:14], “the mother of Jesus” [John 2:1,3; Acts 1:14; see also “his mother” - Matthew 1:18, 2:11; Luke 2:34,43; John 19:25; and “mother” - also John 6:42] who was “espoused to Joseph”.
We are going to look at the scriptures in what they themselves have to say about her and what they do not say about her, for there is at this time a persistent theology which pervades much of the Christian world which claims to have support [from the Bible] for an idea that has been defined and termed as: “theotokos” [literally “God-Bearer”, or “one who gives birth to God” and/or also loosely given as “Mother of God”; being a “title”].
Let us look very closely at the scriptures to see if this “title” is accurate or is instead dangerous.
The first question that should be asked is this, “Is the “title” “theotokos” ever itself given anywhere at all in any of the Scriptures by anyone?” Search as we will, the answer comes back to us as a plain, “No.” Though not convincing in and of itself, let us remember this “silence” and come back to this point later.
The next question that should be asked is this, “Is Mary ever called by the appellation or designated with the title of “Mother of God” [“God” being the English for the Greek [Tr.] word “Theos”] anywhere at all in any of the Scriptures by anyone?” Search as we will, the answer comes back as before to us as a plain, “No.” Again not convincing in and of itself, but let us again remember also this “silence” and come back to this point later.
Let us now consider a few statements by the Roman Catholic theological position and teaching on this subject of the “theotokos”, for it is said that:
"… Elizabeth is the first to call Mary by her most honourable title "Mother of God …" [Roman Catholic Online Encyclopedia; “V”; "The Blessed Virgin Mary"; subsection “The Visitation”] - CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: The Blessed Virgin Mary
It is taught by outward (catechumen) Catholicism that she is not the 'mother of divinity' (well and good), yet there is more said inwardly by the dogma, with hints all over the place at something more, and even openly stated with more:
"… As Mary was truly the mother of Jesus, and as Jesus was truly God from the first moment of His conception, Mary is truly the mother of God. … Theotokos …" [Roman Catholic Online Encyclopedia; “V”; "The Blessed Virgin Mary"; subsection “Mary's divine motherhood”] - CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: The Blessed Virgin Mary
Let us look at the first quote again and ask yet another question. “Did Elizabeth [the cousin of Mary] ever call Mary by the “title” “Mother of God” in any part of the Scriptures?” Search as we will yet again, and the answer yet comes back to us as a plain, “No.”
Where then does the Roman Catholic theological position obtain the slightest ground from Scripture to say that Elizabeth says such?
Luke 1:43 is quoted, so we had better be careful to look at it:
Luke 1:43:
Luk 1:43 (KJB) And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
Luk 1:43 (KJB w/ Strong's) AndG2532 whenceG4159 is thisG5124 to me,G3427 thatG2443 theG3588 motherG3384 of myG3450 LordG2962 should comeG2064 toG4314 me?G3165
Luk 1:43 (GNT TR) και ποθεν μοι τουτο ινα ελθη η μητηρ του κυριου μου προς με
Luk 1:43 (GNT TR w/ Strong's & Robinsons Codes) καιG2532 CONJ ποθενG4159 ADV-I μοιG1473 P-1DS τουτοG3778 D-NSN ιναG2443 CONJ ελθηG2064 V-2AAS-3S ηG3588 T-NSF μητηρG3384 N-NSF τουG3588 T-GSM κυριουG2962 N-GSM μουG1473 P-1GS προςG4314 PREP μεG1473 P-1AS
Luke 1:43 (Stephen's 1550 TR) kai poqen moi touto ina elqh h mhthr tou kuriou mou proV me
Luke 1:43 (Byzantine Majority TR) - kai poqen moi touto ina elqh h mhthr tou kuriou mou proV me
Luke 1:43 (Alexandrian Greek) - kai poqen moi touto ina elqh h mhthr tou kuriou mou proV eme
Luk 1:43 (Jerome's Latin Vulgate) et unde hoc mihi ut veniat mater Domini mei ad me
Luk 1:43 (Clementine Vulgate) Et unde hoc mihi ut veniat mater Domini mei ad me?
Luk 1:43 (Douay Rheims Jesuit) And whence is this to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
There is not a single MSS/Codice/Papyri, etc, let alone a translation in English that reads "mother of God" or "mhthr tou theos" in Luke 1:43:
Luke 1:43 - Bible Gateway
Does the text read from the English or Tr. Greek that Mary was designated with the “title” “Mother of God” by Elizabeth? [Remember, we are looking for the words “mhthr tou theou mou” [Theos/God].]
The text obviously does not read the way it is claimed [intimated] that it does, for it plainly reads, “...mhthr tou kuriou mou...” [“...mother of my Lord...”]. This passage is supposed to be the strongest support pillar upholding the “theotokos” theological position, yet the pillar is non-existent, as is the word “theou”.
As we have seen by the Scriptures, Mary is called the “mother of Jesus” [John 2:1,3; Acts 1:14] but never once designated with the “title” “mother of God”.
It is not possible for Mary to be the "mother of God", since God exists eternally before her, and had no beginning, and is "without mother" (Hebrews 7:3, but even here 'catholics' will attempt something else, though they err in both) and is “...from everlasting...” [Micah 5:2;p etc] even “...to everlasting...” [Psalms 90:2;p etc] and also eternally existing with the “Father” [ref: John 1:1, 17:5].
To give the title “mother of God” to Mary is unbiblical, and she herself would have never have wanted it, being the humble handmaiden and servant of God. Many women, who believed in scripture, were blessed (Genesis 1:22, etc).
Jesus also later directly asks so that there was no confusion regarding His mission, "Who is my mother? and who are my brethren?" (Matthew 12:48; Mark 3:33)
Jesus tells us the answer to the question, "And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren!" (Matthew 12:49; Mark 3:34)
Mary was not among them. She was outside, with Jesus stepbrothers (sons of Joseph) calling Him to come out because they believed he was possessed of devils, having believed the Pharisees reports (see context).
What does even the Angel Gabriel say in the Gospel of Luke?
Gabriel says of Mary, "... Mary: for thou hast found favour with God." (Luke 1:30) [many have found favour with God, for He is gracious, merciful, loving]
Gabriel says of Jesus, "...holy thing..." (Luke 1:35) (Compare Acts 4:27,30, "Holy Child Jesus")
What does Mary herself say?
Mary says of herself: "...Behold the handmaid of the Lord..." (Luke 1:38)
(""handmaid", "doulē", "δούλη", female - servant, slave, bondmaid, handmaid" (Strong's Concordance)),
"...My soul doth magnify the Lord..." (Luke 1:46) and "For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden..." (Luke 1:48)
("low estate", "tapeinōsis", "ταπείνωσις", lowness, low estate, spiritual abasement, lamenting of moral littleness and guilt (Strong's Concordance))
Notice, of “moral littleness and guilt”.
What does Mary say of God, "...he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy (is) his name." (Luke 1:48).
1. We see that it is God who is great (Luke 1:32), not Mary.
2. We see that it is He that has accomplished (Luke 1:35, 'power of the Highest'), not Mary.
3. We see that it is God/Jesus that is Holy (Luke 1:35,48, 'that holy thing'; 'holy (is) his name'), not Mary.
4. We see that it is God that is magnified (Luke 1:46; 'My soul doth magnify the Lord'), not Mary.
5. We see that it is God who is exalted (Luke 1:32-33; 'of his kingdom there shall be no end'), and not Mary.
Mary declares her low position while glorifying God in all things. Not once is she designated, 'mother of God' and not once is she called 'Holy Mary', but rather it is Christ Jesus, God the Father, Holy Ghost who are all explicitly called "Holy".
Mary specifically says that Jesus Christ is her 'Saviour', which means she was a sinner in need of salvation like everyone else:
"...my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour." (Luke 1:47) and we see that this is in the very context of her “moral littleness and guilt” [vs 48].
Let us continue further still. For we shall see that the so-called (Hyper Dulia) 'veneration' of Mary is usurping the worship of God:
It is written of Jesus:
"holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners" [Hebrews 7:26]
that "holy thing" [Luke 1:35]
and "holy child" [Acts 4:27,30]
born of the "Holy Ghost" [Matthew 1:18; Luke 1:35],
where even though He came in the likeness [Romans 8:3; Philippians 2:7; etc] of sinful flesh, yet He was without sin:
"... lamb shall be without blemish..." [Exodus 12:5]
"… But found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none." [Matthew 26:60]
"... the innocent blood..." [Matthew 27:4]
"... For he knew that for envy they had delivered him. ..." [Matthew 27:18]
"… Have thou nothing to do with that just man …" [Matthew 27:19]
"… Why, what evil hath he done? …" [Matthew 27:23]
"… I am innocent of the blood of this just person …" [Matthew 27:24]
"The said Pilate … I find no fault in this man.” [Luke 23:4]
"… Said unto them, Ye have brought this man unto me, as one that perverteth the people: and, behold, I, having examined him before you, have found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him:" [Luke 23:14]
"… what evil hath he done? I have found no cause of death in him ..." [Luke 23:22]
"... lo, nothing worthy of death is done unto him." [Luke 23:15]
"... this man hath done nothing amiss." [Luke 23:41]
"… Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man." [Luke 23:47]
"Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me?" [John 8:46]
"... I have kept my Father's commandments ..." [John 15:10]
"... I find in him no fault [at all]." [John 18:38]
"... I find no fault in him." [John 19:4]
"... I find no fault in him." [John 19:6]
"... the obedience of one ..." [Romans 5:19]
"... who knew no sin ..." [2 Corinthians 5:21]
"... without sin." [Hebrews 4:15]
"... [who is] holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners ..." [Hebrews 7:26]
"Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:" [1 Peter 2:22]
"... in him is no sin." [1 John 3:5]
"How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God ..." [Hebrews 9:4;p]
Nowhere is any of that which was cited said about Mary and she herself acknowledged her low estate [vs 47-48] before God. It is written of all others of mankind (and thus also Mary):
Romans 3:23 KJB - For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;Mary, herself along with the 'brothers of Jesus' (elder sons/daughters of Joseph, from a previous marriage (*scripture evidence upon request), who did not yet believe in him, 'For neither did his brethren believe in him.' - John 7:5) came to Him because they heard from others that Jesus was not in His right mind and was possessed of devils:
Psalms 14:3 KJB - They are all gone aside, they are [all] together become filthy: [there is] none that doeth good, no, not one.
Psalms 53:3 KJB - Every one of them is gone back: they are altogether become filthy; [there is] none that doeth good, no, not one.
Romans 3:10 KJB - As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:
Romans 3:12 KJB - They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.
Mark 3:21 KJB - And when his friends heard [of it], they went out to lay hold on him: for they said, He is beside himself.
Mark 3:30 KJB - Because they said, He hath an unclean spirit.
Mark 3:31 KJB - There came then his brethren and his mother, and, standing without, sent unto him, calling him.
While Mary was blessed of God and found favour (grace) in His eyes, she was not sinless, and she also made mistakes such as leaving the child Jesus behind in Jerusalem, she had lost sight of Him and assumed Him to be where He was not (Luke 2:41-52).
And she, herself did not understand all that Jesus had said ('And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.' Luke 2:50) and she wonders at the shepherd's news (Luke 2:18-19) and also marvelled at the news of Simeon and Anna; 'his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him' - Luke 2:33).
Anna the prophetess, "...spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem." - Luke 2:38 and this would include Mary who went up to Jerusalem to present the child Jesus, who was the Saviour that was looked for since the fall and in Genesis 3:15 to come from the promise of God (Matthew 1:21).
If anything, Luke's Gospel reveals that Mary, though a follower of God, was not faultless nor sinless and most definitely needed a Saviour from her own sins.
There is no scripture which reveals that Mary was 'assumed into Heaven', and the Apostle John wrote nothing of it in scripture and he was the one given charge of her and she of him, and he outlived her.
Roman Catholicism itself says:
No, and even Rome fully admits this, for they base it on mere "tradition" and fallen human "reason".
“I answer that, Nothing is handed down in the canonical Scriptures concerning the sanctification of the Blessed Mary as to her being sanctified in the womb; indeed, they do not even mention her birth.
But as Augustine, in his tractate on the Assumption of the Virgin, argues with reason, since her body was assumed into heaven, and yet Scripture does not relate this...” [Thomas Aquinas; Summa Theologica; Third Part; Question 27; Article I; “I answer that...”] [The Summa Theologica of St. Thomas Aquinas Second and Revised Edition, 1920 Literally translated by Fathers of the English Dominican Province Online Edition Copyright © 2008 by Kevin Knight Nihil Obstat. F. Innocentius Apap, O.P., S.T.M., Censor. Theol. Imprimatur. Edus. Canonicus Surmont, Vicarius Generalis. Westmonasterii. APPROBATIO ORDINIS Nihil Obstat. F. Raphael Moss, O.P., S.T.L. and F. Leo Moore, O.P., S.T.L. Imprimatur. F. Beda Jarrett, O.P., S.T.L., A.M., Prior Provincialis Angliæ
MARIÆ IMMACULATÆ - SEDI SAPIENTIÆ ] - SUMMA THEOLOGIAE: The sanctification of the Blessed Virgin (Tertia Pars, Q. 27)
“... At the same time, it must be confessed that we do not possess any authentic documents bearing directly on Mary's post-Pentecostal life. ...” [Roman Catholic Online Encyclopedia; “V”; “The Most Blessed Virgin Mary”; subsection “The Post-pentesoctal Life Of Mary”] - CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: The Blessed Virgin Mary
“... Regarding the day, year, and manner of Our Lady's death, nothing certain is known. ...” [Roman Catholic Online Encyclopedia; “A”; “Assumption Of Mary”; subsection “The Fact Of The Assumption”] - CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: Assumption of Mary
"St. John Damascene
St. John of Damascus (P.G., I, 96) thus formulates the tradition of the Church of Jerusalem: St. Juvenal, Bishop of Jerusalem, at the Council of Chalcedon (451), made known to the Emperor Marcian and Pulcheria, who wished to possess the body of the Mother of God, that Mary died in the presence of all the Apostles, but that her tomb, when opened, upon the request of St. Thomas, was found empty; wherefrom the Apostles concluded that the body was taken up to heaven." [Roman Catholic Online Encyclopedia; “A”; “Assumption Of Mary”; subsection “The Fact Of The Assumption”] - CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: Assumption of Mary
"The feast of the Assumption
Regarding the origin of the feast we are also uncertain. It is more probably the anniversary of the dedication of some church than the actual anniversary of Our Lady's death. That it originated at the time of the Council of Ephesus, or that St. Damasus introduced it in Rome is only a hypothesis. ..." [Roman Catholic Online Encyclopedia; “A”; “Assumption Of Mary”; subsection “The Feast Of The Assumption”] - CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: Assumption of Mary
An "assumption" based on no facts, but mere vain "tradition" of men, made up out of the aether.
Another Roman Catholic theology associated with this 'theotokos' dogma is also not found in scripture, in that it is claimed that 'Mary' offered Jesus:
"Before reciting the Angelus, the Pope concluded his reflection by pointing out that the Gospel teaching has promoted an “active mentality” among Christian populations, even in the historical and social spheres, and yet “the central message regards the spirit of responsibility with which the Kingdom of God is to be accepted: responsibility toward God and toward humanity.” The perfect model of this attitude is found in the heart of the Virgin Mary, “who, receiving the most precious of gifts, Jesus himself, offered him to the world with great love." - [Fides [org]] -
VATICAN - Pope at the Angelus: “Indeed, what Christ gives us is multiplied when we give it away! It is a treasure that is made to be spent, invested, shared with all, as the Apostle Paul, that great administrator of Jesus' talents, has taught us;” the presence of the cloistered religious communities in the Church and the world “is indispensable.” - Agenzia Fides
The Bible never says that Mary 'offered' Jesus, for it states clearly in John 3:16 that God the Father 'gave' Jesus and Jesus 'gave' of Himself (John 6:51, 10:15).
In Hebrews 9:14 we read:
Hebrews 9:14 KJB - How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?does Roman Catholic theology stop at mere 'veneration' (Hyper-Dulia, so-called) of 'Mary'?
No, for it even includes "worship" which is "in common" with that of worship of God, and so much more.
"...the Most August Virgin Mary ... this Divine Mother... Yet our manner of praying to the Blessed Virgin has something in common with our worship of God, so that the Church even addresses to her the words with which we pray to God: "Have mercy on sinners."
… the heavenly choirs, "above whom the Holy Mother of God is exalted." ...” Augustissimae Virginis Mariae (September 12, 1897) | LEO XIII & On the Confraternity of the Holy Rosary - Papal Encyclicals
Additionally, if Roman Catholicism's theology desires to have this “woman” of Revelation 12 as 'Mary', then do they desire also to teach as the scripture does, that this “woman” of Revelation 12 had more descendants, as this “woman”, being the people of God throughout the ages, has numerous 'children', Jesus, being the “firstborn” of many, while the actual Mary had only one child, Jesus:
Romans 8:29 KJB - For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
Revelation 12:17 KJB - And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.
Colossians 1:15 KJB - Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:
Colossians 1:18 KJB - And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.
Paul solves the issue for us, line upon line: “... head of the body … who is the beginning … have the preeminence.”
Now, consider the greater context of the whole of scripture, for Christ Jesus can be said to fulfill both meanings, in that not only is:
[1] Jesus is the “firstborn”, being the preeminent one:
Romans 9:5 KJB - Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.
Colossians 1:16 KJB - For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:
Colossians 2:10 KJB - And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:
Ephesians 1:21 KJB - Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:
Ephesians 1:22 KJB - And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,
Ephesians 1:23 KJB - Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
Ephesians 3:9 KJB - And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:
Ephesians 4:15 KJB - But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
Hebrews 7:26 KJB - For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;
John 1:3 KJB - All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
[2] Jesus is also the “firstborn” of the Woman/Church:
Isaiah 9:6 KJB - For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Luke 2:11 KJB - For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Hebrews 2:10 KJB - For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.
Revelation 12:13 KJB - And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.
Furthermore, Roman Catholicism's theology at this point, ignores that “a great red Dragon” was also “in heaven” with “the woman”:
Revelation 12:3 KJB - And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.
Do you begin to see that through such a confusing (1 Corinthians 14:33) theology that the Devil himself is in Heaven with 'Mary'? In fact, this is exactly what the devil wants, since he masquerades as the apparitional 'mary' on earth.
While the devil had access to the gates of Heaven once again (Job 1:6-12, 2:1-7; 1 Kings 22:19-24; 2 Chronicles 18:18-23; Luke 22:31; John 19:11), when Adam surrendered his steward-dominion (Genesis 1:24-31, 2:7-25; Psalms 8:4-6; Micah 4:8) over to him, it was at the Cross in AD 31 (Romans 5:6; Revelation 12:10), that the devil was permanently cast down, and no longer has access any more to the gates of Heaven, and is permanently stuck down here in “the pit”, pacing back and forth, until his time to be executed (Proverbs 28:15; Ezekiel 22:25; 1 Peter 5:8).
For more on Revelation 12, see the full study here:
https://archive.org/download/revelation-12-the-great-controversy/Revelation 12 – The Great Controversy.pptx