In the debate about the presence of the Catholic Church in the Bible, many argue that there is no explicit reference to this institution in the Scriptures. However, upon analyzing the sacred texts, we find that the Church founded by Christ and mentioned in the Bible is, in fact, the Catholic Church.
The meaning of “Catholic” in the Bible.
The term “catholic” comes from the Greek katholikós, which means “universal”. Although the word does not appear directly in the Bible, the concept of a universal Church established by Christ is present. In Acts 9:31, we find a reference in Greek that reads:
“Ἡ μὲν οὖν ἐκκκλησία καθ’ ὅλης τῆς Ἰουδαίας καὶ Γαλιλαίας καὶ Σαμαρείας εἶχεν εἰρήνην…”
The expression ekklēsia kath’ holēs literally means “the Church throughout” (universally extended), which is a basis for the concept of the Catholic Church.
The Church established by Christ
Jesus founded his Church on Peter, according to Matthew 16:18:
“You are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
This passage is fundamental, as it shows that Christ established a visible Church with a structure and leadership. Peter became the first Pope, and his successors have guided the Church through the centuries.
A Church with apostolic authority and succession
Jesus did not leave his Church without guidance. In Matthew 28:19-20, he commands the apostles to:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”
This implies continuity in teaching and authority, something that only the Catholic Church has maintained over the centuries through apostolic succession.
The promise of the guidance of the Holy Spirit
Christ promised that the Holy Spirit would guide His Church in John 16:13:
“But when the Spirit of truth is come, he will guide you into all truth.”
This guidance of the Holy Spirit ensures that the doctrine of the Church will remain intact and free from error in matters of faith and morals.
The Church as the body of Christ
St. Paul describes the Church as the body of Christ in Ephesians 1:22-23:
“And he put all things under his feet, and gave him to be head over all things to the Church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.”
This vision reinforces the idea of a unified Church led by Christ, not a series of separate denominations.
Conclusion
The Catholic Church is in the Bible, not only in its structure and teaching, but also in its universal mission. From its foundation by Christ to the apostolic succession, the Church has been faithful to the mandate to take the Gospel to the whole world. The next time someone questions the presence of the Catholic Church in the Bible, you can share these passages that confirm its biblical authenticity.
