From Calvinist to Catholic w/ Ethan Dolan

[@Sheilamarie2]

I hope everyone here is listening to Ascension Presents, Father Mike Schmitz Catechism In A Year! It's not too late to catch up, or go at your own pace. What a beautiful gift of our Faith, the Catholic Catechism! God Bless everyone here.

[@charliek2557]

Amen

[@gnomeresearch1666]

It really is. I found a copy of the Catechism at a thrift store and it got me on the road to conversion. I had so many questions about the faith growing up in the South and nominally protestant with a healthy dose of 'antipapism' but doubts and skepticism kept mounting. The Catechism is such a wonderful gift to the faithful.

[@terrynboucher3219]

I love that he discusses the sections and clarifies them.

[@Call_Upon_YAH]

Be it known: Through the Holy Spirit, God has put it on me to preach to those lost in the devil's deceit! Hear me when I say, ye that are Catholic have been deceived and know not God. Ye worship Mary, praying to her; when God tells his to worship none other than him. It is idolatry. Catholicism has its own Bible and teachings, which are blasphemous to the word of God: the Holy Bible. As ye follow the teachings of man and not God; ye hear the pope, but not Jesus, yet ye claim to be his disciples! These are but a few things I named ye dwell within; there are many more. I tell you now to repent of your sins, accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, and you'll receive the gift of the Holy Spirit upon asking the Father! There are *NO* sub-divisions of Christianity. You're either a disciple of Christ or not. A Christian is someone who follows God's word, not a religion. Who obey the Father and follow his will; not man's nor their own heart's. Unless you keep Jesus' commandments, think not the Holy Spirit will dwell within you! They who heed this message and did what was stated with an open heart to God... Read the Holy Bible (KJV) daily and every time before you read, pray to the Father and ask: "Lord I ask that you give me understanding of your word, that I interpret it the way you want me to, and none of my own. I ask you in Jesus' name, amen." Revelation 22:8-9 KJV 8 And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. 9 Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God. Acts 2:38 KJV 38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Luke 11:13 KJV 13 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? John 14:21-24 KJV 21 *He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.* 22 Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? 23 Jesus answered and said unto him, *If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.* 24 He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and *the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.* 3 John 1:11 KJV 11 Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. *He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.* 1 John 3:6-10 KJV 6 *Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him.* 7 Little children, let no man deceive you: *he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.* 8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. 9 *Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.* 10 *In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God,* neither he that loveth not his brother.

[@TradPapol]

@@Call_Upon_YAH did you even watch the videos or are you just spamming comments with your nonsense?

[@dominicpineiro4140]

We know that God used this very interview for my wife and I to join the Catholic Church. We were reformed Calvinists that had just that week begun the process of honestly discerning the Church. This interview gripped us and as tired parents, we stayed up very late to watch all of it. It was exactly what we needed to hear, when we needed to hear it. We will be confirmed in our local parish a week from today. Praise God for drawing us to the apostolic Church. Praise God for Ethan Dolan. Praise God for Pints with Aquinas.

[@dumbox1899]

I hope this man ends up teaching at our seminaries some day.

[@jessicarobinson9248]

Welcome home, Ethan! Ethan, instead of articulating Catholicism as “right” to your parents (vs. Protestantism as “wrong”) I would articulate Catholicism as having found the “fullness” of Christ’s church. Oh! And that’s Christ’s prayer - that we would be one in Him. It makes me think of the hymn O Lord Who At Thy First Eucharist. God bless you, brother! 🙏❤️

[@lyterman]

What a wise young man. It amazes me these bold folks who are willing to give over their lives to Christ with no foreseeable plan of how they will deal with the consequences. May God bless them for their faith.

[@laurasmith4498]

It seems like the only consequence is a crowd of Catholics receiving and supporting him. And he gets to tell his story on podcasts. Doesn’t seem like a huge sacrifice to be honest.

[@lyterman]

@@laurasmith4498 I mean, he got expelled from school and surely lost many friends and connections. There doesn't have to be a huge sacrifice for conversion to be incredible, but there seems to me to be in his case.

[@frisco61]

@@laurasmith4498Why be so dismissive when you truly have no idea what he’s experienced?

[@ClaytonDeMaine]

This is such a great conversation, I just started following Christ about two months ago, and I've been struggling for weeks to debate the Protestant Vs. Catholic question. Every time I think i've figured it out there are other arguments that arise.

[@magnolia31611]

I’m so happy for you that you’ve found Faith in Jesus! I highly encourage you to visit an RCIA program at a local Catholic parish. I attended one a few years ago, and I had so many questions that they were able to help me answer. I’m praying for you on your faith journey, may The Holy Spirit guide you as you seek out Gods will for your life🙏🏻

[@timboslice980]

I'm in RCIA now I was calvinist for the last 8 years

[@ScreamingReel500]

Welcome home. I am a cradle Catholic, but I can say I was not a devout catholic when I was young and went astray for a while. I saw that many people do not understand the Bible because they do not understand the Catechism and vice versa. We all must do our homework, and no one will force us to do it (reading the Bible and the Catechism and the Code of Canon Law). The person that really helped me to understand the Catechism is Fr. Corapi with his 50 parts Catechism. Very much all the talk here or other KZbins channels are already covered by him and what the Church teaches. May God bless you.

[@MaggieRamshaw]

Welcome home!!!!

[@CJChesspnp]

The Catechism in a Year on the Ascension website is awesome!

[@timboslice980]

@@CJChesspnp my rcia director already has me on the podcast though I'm just using my catechism at home and not the plan on the website. I'm sure it's nice though

[@irishmclass2042]

@ Timbo Slice - praised be Jesus Christ on your conversion to the Catholic Faith. Prayers for you as you journey through RCIA! It is an amazing experience and wonderful lifestyle to embrace! God bless you, and Welcome Home! 🙏✝️

[@mattwcook9127]

Grew up going to a Calvinist church, and it never felt right to me. I got to the point where I was just ignoring any and all things related to spirituality because of the existential fear Calvinism leads to. Just started attending a Catholic church, and am beyond moved by it... Planning a talk with Monsignor in the future to join

[@kafon6368]

Welcome

[@bradleesargent]

LLP Welcome home to the one true holy apostolic catholic church founded by Jesus Christ

[@nicholasgeorge7825]

Thank you for using the phrase "existential fear." In fact, this very thing was the historical fruit of predestination obsession. No one could be sure if they were saved or not. Good works might be the proof or they might be your vain efforts to earn what only the grace of God can give. We need to leave such mysteries to God, preach the Gospel and allow for some paradox. May revelation, joy, peace, good fruits in the power of the Gospel and the graces of the Spirit be with you and your family now and always, according to the promise: "Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you shall be saved, you and your house."

[@EthanLington]

Same, but last Easter. Joining and confirmed this Easter :) best decision ever!

[@verum-in-omnibus1035]

As an adult convert from the Protestants religion into Christianity (because make no mistake Protestants are not Christians, Christian is a term used to describe those IN HIS CHURCH) - I do not understand the tippy toe, super walking on egg shells- let’s give everyone the benefit of the doubt to any EXTREME posture - behavior who people claiming to want to bring souls to the truth of Christ?! I actually do not understand it. My entire life no one spoke clear to me about what the Church was and it took the loss of a child for God to allow me to be humbled to see his Church. Why won’t we speak clearly and honestly and forcefully with charity, and not pretend those who hate the Church of Christ actually are OK?

[@pop6997]

I absolutely love the sincere honesty of Ethan. I once had a 'pal' I spoke to for a number of years online. He a Calvinist, I a Catholic and of course we had back and forth on Baptism, Grace, Sanctity, predestination etc. I was surprised at where our beliefs met - mostly in God's nature....and where they tend to part...in 'humanities' nature. Which obviously leads back to the fall. We had respectful chats, but I think he may have been more assured of my salvation because he knew I had faith then I would...He gave me the impression that I was 'almost' understanding how I'm saved.... Then, I'd bring up the 'perseverance of the Saints till the end'....and round we go. Still loved and respected that pal very very much tbh!

[@nicolaalbury8290]

THIS. IS. GREAT. Literally sums up my thought/research/reflection process going from Calvinism to Catholicism as well (including the 'in what order should I explain things in so this might make sense to somebody else??') Thank you so much for this interview!

[@therese_paula]

The story on litany of saints (when ethan and liam were about to meet dr. Scott) literally made my mouth go from ear to ear! So many endearing and funny anecdotes there! God bless you!

[@lynngraham5841]

Me too. Very sweet and funny

[@Jaseph2]

You *NEED* to have Ethan back and do some deeper dives into some of these theological topics. This video just leaves me hungering for more.

[@EthanDolan1274]

John, give Scholastic Answers a follow. I'll be appearing on that channel fairly often, and when I eventually get my own kicked off it'll be known there! In the meantime, Christian has covered all kinds of topics!

[@Jaseph2]

When I heard the name, Scholastic Answers, I got excited, but I forgot to subscribe. Thanks for the reminder. Scholasticism gets a pretty bad rap in a day when logic and reason aren’t highly regarded.

[@vickigardner9014]

Wonderful interview and guest. Ethan Dolan is so fun to listen to, so very humble, smart, and seems to be trusting and waiting on God for the next step in his Catholic faith journey.

[@bearistotle2820]

I went from Mormon to Calvinist to Catholic, in large part because I found, and still maintain, that Calvinism is the most coherent form of protestantism. If you believe in imputed righteousness, I believe TULIP naturally follows, so I have always maintained great respect for their tradition. Edit: It appears my understanding of the imputation vs. the infusion of grace was still rudimentary. This interview is fantastic!

[@jacobstevens9957]

Thank you so much! This video put into words how all the different denominations of Christianity can all seem coherent but that doesn’t mean they are all true. Simply, you can’t have multiple, different and objective interpretations of the truth.There can only be one!

[@justenaugustine5954]

Ahhhh that’s insane, I was baptized at Incarnation Catholic Church January 29th, 2022! That’s so awesome you know Fr Holiday !

[@EthanDolan1274]

Noo wayyy!! I'll have to have someone put us in touch. Talk to Henry Kones if you see him around there

[@MaggieRamshaw]

Hi Justen, say hi to me too!! Awesome to have so many people

[@bridgetn2575]

One of my friends, Fr Patrick, was at Incarnation a few years back! I knew him when he was still “just” a seminarian in DoSA before he transferred to the Ordinariate. Small world hearing the Incarnation connection in Ethan’s story.

[@bernadettesolomons1870]

Not by Faith Alone, Love my Catholic Faith

[@jeandoten1510]

This Easter will be the 45th anniversary of my conversion to the Roman Catholic Church. I must admit that there have been times that I have stepped away to reconsider that decision, mostly due to issues of Liturgy and/or scandalous lack of charity. But of course, when I did so the Holy Spirit always eventually helped me to remember why I became Catholic in the first place. "Lord, to whom shall we go, for you have the words of everlasting life." After recently moving across the country it has been hard to find a parish home, but this Sunday I have decided to make the 90 minute drive to an Anglican Ordinariate Parish, the Good Lord willing and the creek don't rise.

[@miracles_metanoia]

Ordinariates are awesome! I attend one as well. If 90 min is too far away, is there a byzantine or eastern catholic or marionite closer?

[@davidquinlivan112]

Thank both of you so much . Your love for the Lord lifts all of us . And this was a fun interview . So glad I spent my time this way .

[@colleenavery232]

Discovered what was hidden since vat II when the lockdowns hit. Learning like mad drinking from a firehose Part of my research has been vids - Father Ripperger, The Summa, Bishop Schneider, Archbishop Vigano, Cardinal Burke, Taylor Marshall etc Your vids are fantastic but WOW! This young man is astounding. Thank you for sharing His story. Will be studying the many references given in this talk. May God Bless You Both and again Thank You So Much!

[@olivianeukam5636]

Did anyone else notice once he was talking about what he learned from Fr. Pine he started talking like Fr. Pine?

[@EthanDolan1274]

That's pretty funny that I did that now that you mention it 😂😂

[@chase6579]

An excellent impression

[@rosiegirl2485]

This guy is impressive... Thank you! ⚘️

[@EthanDolan1274]

Thank you! Please pray for me!

[@MaggieRamshaw]

Oh, my!! One of my favorite people!! So happy to hear you. Awesome interview and much love to you!!

[@EthanDolan1274]

Thank you! Hopefully I can visit Incarnation sometime soon!

[@MaggieRamshaw]

@@EthanDolan1274 we always love seeing you. You guys are a beacon of light and hope.

[@theien5929]

This guy will develop into an outstanding theology teacher. Faith, love of God, and reason are in all his arguments

[@sentjojo]

This is all great stuff! Would love his whole friend group all on the podcast together

[@createclass8340]

Really great conversation... very helpful discussion. I grew up in the 'Christian Churches' denomination, and much of this same reasoning is what led me towards Anglicanism, funnily enough. Love the channel! Thank you!

[@JeanFreedman]

Thank you so much for this conversation! I grew up Christian but in various Protestant denominations. I found reformed Calvinism about 15 years ago and 5 years ago became Presbyterian. For the past 7 years Ive been struggling with doubt in Christianity and when I study the early beliefs of the early church it always looks so catholic to me lol

[@Musingnotes]

What a beautiful conversation. I wish I thought half as deeply as this guy when I was in college! By God’s grace I am thinking much more deeply now about my faith and my heart is being pulled toward Catholicism, and conversations like this are helping my head to catch up. Thank you!

[@christianstephens7213]

This lad is a gift to the Church , I share his sentiments , I’m greatful for Penecostal up brining its noted on my Baptism in my certificate I received in my confirmation to the Catholic Church . I was baptized by my late grandfather that fact I can carry that into Catholic faith means the world to me

[@cedricopese]

Great talk ! Thanks. I was evangelical, the catholic faith is so so beautifull...

[@hogandonahue9598]

Such a powerful interview! My conversion was very similar! It's so striking how relatable it can be.

[@billydavisband]

1:07:45 this makes me think of St Vincent of Lerins on how we know what is true. Owing to the depth of scripture there are as many interpretations as interpreters and so we must hold to what was believed always, everywhere, and by all. The Church is lead by the Spirit into all truth. I came from a very Calvinist background so I resonate with this so much. Welcome to the Church, brother.

[@damnedmadman]

I think the main problem is that people want to define everything precisely, so they end up guessing and inventing the "missing parts", instead of just focus on the most important thing. The inevitable end result is a multitude of doctrines and churches. The only correct solution can be to stick with the Catholic Church which has this unique continuity of primacy since the apostolic times. Only they can have the doctrine which 100% true, or at least closest to the 100%, unless we don't trust in the Holy Spirit to care about and guide the Church. All of us cannot be 100% right at the same time, and obviously those who broke away cannot be right, because to claim better understanding than the whole centuries old Church is pride, and Pride is the greatest sin.

[@iactu896]

Have Christian Wagner on

[@daviddabrowski01]

Only 30 minutes in and as a cradle Catholic my mind is 🤯🤯🤯🤯. Beautiful 👏🏻👏🏻

[@seanbrittmusic6152]

Glad trad with patchy beard here! God bless

[@KenPeters-sr1125]

Ethan, when talking about the eucharist, mentioned a range of interpretations, but in that range he didn't include the interpretation that I personally think is the correct one. Jesus said As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. This is my commandment: love one another as I have loved you. Right before he broke bread, he washed the disciples' feet, saying as I have done this for you, do this for one another. The Father had used Mary to wash Jesus' feet. Jesus washed the disciples' feet. He told them they are to wash one another's feet. He said this is an example. An example of what? of the Father loving the Son, the Son loving the disciples as he had been loved, and the command to them to love one another as he had loved them. Not long after that he breaks the bread and says, "This is my body, broken for you. Do this in remembrance of me." Do what? Have people wash your feet? Or do you obey the commandment he just finished talking about? remembering that we are to offer our body, broken for one another? The purpose of communion is to unite us, forgiving one another. Communion is meant to be a horizontal relationship, not a vertical one. When does the bread become the body of Christ? Right after we partake. We are the body of Christ. Doesn't that make you angry? That is an example of how entrenched we can be in our own beliefs. You have to give me points on the logic, but I expect this will make everyone who reads this livid. If that's you, smash, smash, SMASH that thumbs down button. But if what you believe about communion makes you react to this with anger, maybe you should examine yourself like Paul suggested, and begin to partake worthily. Communion is not about making yourself right with God; it is about making yourself right with one another. I was just thrown out of the Evangelical Church. I expect the Catholic Church would not have me either. All for just trying to have an intelligent conversation. There are many, many more intelligent conversations we need to have. Sadly, the Christian way is to cancel those with whom we disagree. Ethan, the doctrine you are looking for is not out there, it is within you. When you are visiting your dad sometime, stop by and we can have some intelligent conversations. But they may throw you out of the Catholic Church as well.

[@wellerbrian3]

I’ve never seen it in that light before, that fulfilling the new covenant by way of communion is horizontal and not vertical. We keep trying to please God by bypassing Christ’s command to “love one another”

[@SibleySteve]

I totally relate to this. I got in trouble in a Baptist seminary in 1993 for quoting Luther to the Calvinist Dean, and he went ballistic. It did not end well. I miss the theological course, but not the mean-spirited Calvinism that could not accommodate any other protestant let alone Catholic source. I was considering a mission trip to Ireland at the time to save the Irish, and all I could think was "if I get sent to Ireland, I will for sure end up converting to catholicism" because I honor my Irish catholic grandma so much.

[@menoftheclothKTOG]

1:10-1:14 You heard right and yes that is what they believe and how to its practiced. (Calvinist OPC turned Catholic Catacumen here)

[@mattnelson9477]

Ethan, if you see this, I’m a member of St. Cuthbert of Lindisfarne, the Ordinariate community in Indianapolis. If you ever want to make the trip over for an Ordinariate Mass, we have several folks who would be happy to host you!

[@josemartinez6316]

That guy is podcaster material lol. I really enjoyed this one. God Bless both you guys.

[@micheldaillet8144]

wonderful, thank you Matt and thank God!

[@coryscook91]

Have Christian Wagner (Scholastic Answers) on. Not only the smartest young youtuber ive seen but the guy will give you tons of clips hahaha, he tends to know how to be clickbaity.

[@MilitantThomist]

[@ServusChristi777]

What would you say about how Thomas Aquinas’ Summa Theologica part 1 question 23 presents a view identical to Calvinist unconditional election?

[@rtrjmk5]

Wonderful interview

[@claymcdermott718]

Incarnation! I know some people there. What a great church!

[@andrewpearson1903]

27:30 The contrast between the fruits of the two teachings on grace is striking -- Dolan was freed from his struggles with sin, paradoxically, by grace and the teaching that you can lose or reject it even as it remains God's grace, while the other teaching (that you possess total assurance, unless you don't) turned him into the "double-minded man" of the Epistle of St. James, worrying about whether the grace he received was real or illusory. The former, Catholic doctrine inculcates reliance on God and encourages the sinner to get up, ask forgiveness and keep going -- "If we are unfaithful, He will still remain faithful, for He cannot deny Himself."

[@EthanDolan1274]

This struck me deeply as it was happening actually. The principle of denying yourself and crucifying what is comfortable to reach out in faith. It was only by denying assurance of salvation that I was able to find rest in Christ.

[@andrewpearson1903]

@@EthanDolan1274 Wow, thank you for finding this comment. God bless your work, and try to get Matt to have Christian Wagner on sometime - now that would be a lively episode

[@bandie9101]

weird, do they apply the "i chose you not you chose me" verse to predestination, not to church hierarchy?!

[@KenPeters-sr1125]

The idea that all grace comes through Mary indicates a fundamental misunderstanding of what grace is. I loved what Ethan said about the need to understand the entity behind the word, not just the definition. As the Father has loved me, I love you. As I love you, love one another. Grace is the divine love sourced from the Father to and through the Son to and through us to one another. It is divine because the Holy Spirit is the enactor of this love. Love did not come from the Father through Mary to the Son. When the Son loves you, that love becomes a law written on your heart (in your account). When the Holy Spirit loves another through you, it is the fulfillment of that law. You didn't do it, God did it, but he did it using your resources yielded to him as instruments of righteousness. Referring to the parable of the talents, the talent is grace. When received from the Lord it is recorded in the account (the one they looked at when the lord returned.) When a talent was gained, it was also written in the account. When the lord returned, they looked at the account and saw both the talents given and the talents gained. If a talent given was not used to gain a talent, it was lost. On judgment day, if you have not fulfilled the law written upon your heart by loving one another with that love, you forfeit the love, the grace given. The promise of salvation is the first grace everyone receives upon being conceived again. Begotten again is another example of the river of love flowing from the Father. The Father conceived his Son with the incorruptible word of God by the Holy Spirit. The Son conceives us from above through the Holy Spirit with the incorruptible seed, the word of God. We conceive others from above by the Holy Spirit with the incorruptible seed, the word of God. When we are conceived from above we become children of God through Jesus Christ, thereby bringing us into the house of Israel, and under the new covenant. That is the first love of every believer, and it is the one grace you do not want to forfeit. Because it is received by everyone, it is the basis of the Great Commission. The seed is incorruptible because, no matter how many generations it passes through, it does not mutate. You are no longer held accountable by sin; you are held just as accountable by grace, written in your account, on your heart. Neither Catholics nor Evangelicals seem to get this. I love you just the same.

[@oguznurettinalhan3887]

Coupon code isn't working.

[@menoftheclothKTOG]

1:55-1:57+ category error. Ethan is submitting to something outside of himself that presents as an actual authority as opposed himself being the authority by choosing what he already is comfortable believing or simply of his own autonomy choosing yet another coherent system. Tho both systems could be seen as being able to logically fit; one is comfortable and familiar and already believed driving a motivation to continue in it The other is a great departure requiring submission to an external authority challenging every aspect of what you believe requiring ascent to the objective truth.

[@OkieAllDay]

I would be much more likely to become a Catholic than a Calvinist.

[@ServusChristi777]

I’m going the other right now. Traditional Catholic, going Reformed Protestant.

[@joseph_bishop]

Care to briefly summarize your rationale?

[@GumbyJumpOff]

Doesn't this verse disprove the Calvinist position that apostates were never saved? Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 12:3 ESV It sounds like Calvinists would assert that even someone who prayed in Jesus' name, called Him Lord and God, after having apostasized prove that they were never actually saved. But that's clearly not true in those cases according to Scripture, no?

[@TheFreim]

Very interesting story from Mr. Dolan! Interesting to see that he knows the great Christian Wagner, the Militant Thomist. You should see if you can get Mr. Wagner on the show.

[@newglof9558]

Reformed to Romanist Protestant to Papist

[@petruslourens4435]

[Eph 2:8-9 ESV] 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

[@whiterosesforthebrideofchrist]

Jesus, Mary, Joseph, Peter, and Paul were not Roman Catholics. They were all Jewish. The first non-Jewish believer in the gospel is Cornelius in Acts chapter ten. Every believer before Acts chapter ten is 100 percent Jewish. When the LORD commanded Peter to go preach the gospel to Cornelius Peter didn't want to go because he knew that Cornelius was not Jewish. The Bible, Old Testament and New Testament, was written by Jews. The LORD commanded Peter three times, "Feed My sheep" (John 21:15-17). Therefore, Peter gave the keys to the kingdom directly to the sheep and not to the magisterium. And Peter wrote to the sheep (2 Peter 1:5-11) and said, “...add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:5-11). In other words, Peter says that if we (the sheep) do what he says to do that this will open the doorway to heaven "abundantly" to the sheep. Peter has been feeding the sheep by sharing the keys to the kingdom with anyone who will do what he tells them to do in 2 Peter 1:5-11 and the entrance to the kingdom will be abundantly ministered to them. And they will never fall. So, why doesn't the church that says that they hold the keys to the kingdom teach their people how to have the power to live holy and the power to never fall? If you are willing to give totalitarian control of your thinking to the magisterium or to any religious group you have blinded yourself and cannot even see the scriptures that are right in front of you. On the day of judgment you will not be able to point at someone else and say, "It's their fault." It is your individual responsibility to know the scriptures. "And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest" (Hebrews 8:11). Peter by his personal example never acted as if having the keys to the kingdom meant asserting authority over other people. For example in Acts 15 when a very important matter was to be decided before the assembly the final verdict was given by James and not by Peter (Acts 15:19). Paul gave commandments to the churches he established and not Peter (1 Corinthians 7:17 and 16:1). Also, Paul did not take his orders from Peter. In fact Paul rebuked Peter to his face. “But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed” (Galatians 2:11). The LORD commanded us saying, "...Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. BUT SO SHALL IT NOT BE AMONG YOU: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all" (Mark 10:42-44). ... ... ...

[@AdithiaKusno]

Salvation has two natures because two natures Christology lead to dyophysite soteriology. Christology always manifest in how the theology is developed. Monergistic Christology lead to monergistic soteriology. This is why in the Covenant of Grace Westminster said God predestined everything. Mankind can choose from choices that God destined but there's no freedom to create choices. Free choice is not free will.

[@chipcole4817]

The seven sacrament view within Anglicanism isn’t super niche…

[@monicalillis3294]

Anyone else see the 'face' in the wood ? Jesus ?

[@angelbonilla4243]

It is difficult and amazing to understand how anyone could be converted during the disastrous papacy of Francis. I can receive more orthodox and coherent instruction from my working-class neighborhood Pentecostal pastor than from the current Vicar of Christ. One example suffices to prove it: the Pope's awful AP interview and subsequent "clarification" of his views on homosexuality.

[@joejohnston3]

I was just thinking about this, and actually Francis helped me to come to the Catholic church, because I kept hearing about all of the awful things that he was doing, and it provoked me to research the Catholic church further to find out what on earth was going on. Sounds funny, but one of the worst popes ever helped me to become Catholic.

[@backwaterfarmer]

Matt seems to be unable to stop himself from lashing out at the "rad-trads" every chance he gets.

[@jordantsak7683]

The confessional lutheran view is this ''We are saved by grace, through the gift of faith ( = trust in Jesus' work, not mine), in Word and Sacrament.'' Grace, faith, word and sacraments are Jesus. The main wrong theology of the Roman Catholic Church is her anthropology. RCC teaches that in Adam man didn't fall 100%, but he was traumatised in his ability to keep the Law and please God. RCC teaches that after man is baptized or repented he is now in the position to keep the Law and be judged according to the level of sanctity he has reached. The RCC names this soteriology as ''synergy'', i.e you are saved by grace restoring you and by you as long as you use this grace appropriately and you keep the Law. You can bever have assurance of salvation in this system. It is a nightmare. It has as a result pride, hypocrisy, depression, apostasy. This synergy theology is false. In Adam, man was fallen completely. He can not save himself alone or with help. Man is fallen. Dead. Unable to believe, fulfil the Law and be saved. You can not save yourself alone or with the help of grace. Grace is not an aid or a help but Jesus' forgiving you. If one of the two is right then it is not grace, it is merit. You are absolutely, perfectly, assuredly , saved only in Christ. By hearing the word and/or by baptism Jesus covers you and forgives you, regenerates you. You are at the same time totally sinner as long as it has to do with you and totally justified saint because of Jesus. Who wins? You or Jesus? Jesus of course. He is our savior 100%, not 99.999%. It is all about Him. Calvinism is wrong because it has done the sacraments ''signs and seals'', symbols, representations etc of our faith, repentance etc. Calvin originally spoke about the sacraments as spiritual means of grace, but the absolute majority of calvinist mixed up this teaching with the ideas of Zwingli and they deny that sacraments are salvation. They fight against this idea, which is biblical and true. The result is they, same as the RCC, teach salvation by deeds. They don't realize they deny the incarnation. The sacraments are material and word of God in, under, by it. They are means of grace. Here and now. Not somewhere there over the sky. Here and now. FOR YOU. For the forgiveness of you sins. Our life is a constant repentance, Luther said. And all these sweet things, all these goods are only the work of God, nothing ours. Please dear Catholics and Calvinists, try to find a good confessional lutheran church (LCMS, WELS, ELDONA etc), a good confessional lutheran pastor, read the lutheran confessions, listen to good confessional lutheran material. Here some proposals. Bryan Wolfmueller, Jordan Cooper, Ask the Pastor (p. Joshua Sullivan), 1517, Rod Rosenbladt, James Nestingen etc etc. Love you.

[@delsydebothom3544]

If man fell 100%, he would cease to exist. The fall entails a loss of goodness, but the goodness man lost by the fall was never anything man had by virtue of his nature to begin with. If man lost *all* of his goodness, he would also lose the goodness of his existence, and none of us would be here to talk about the extent of the fall.

[@dylanwagoner9768]

Banner of Truth just released a wonderful book that lays out the testimonies of 5 priests who left Rome to become Protestant Christian’s.

[@EthanDolan1274]

I would be very careful. For a priest to break his vows he made to God is a serious matter. I will pray for them, and you should pray that they all end up with Christ's sheep on the day of judgment.

[@dylanwagoner9768]

@@EthanDolan1274 Silliness. “Lord, I vow that I will never leave the darkness for the light.” God wants us to come to a knowledge of the truth, not stay in manifest error. And yes, I have hope that Christ will claim him on that day, more so know that they’ve left the burdensome system of a false church. Question: How could you have been a Protestant and at the same time say that a church council is unreformable? Sounds like you were kidding yourself, and before you left you were already gone.

[@EthanDolan1274]

@@dylanwagoner9768 I didn't hold that the council was irreformable. I held that the teachings at the council regarding Christology, the Trinity, ect should never be changed or reformed because they are in alignment with scriptural teaching which showed the working of the Holy Spirit in the men at that time. I was certainly not unique in this position, as the only really consistent and confessional protestants would hold the same thing. I will be praying for you as you seek the truth which is only found in Christ. Please pray that the same would happen for me.

[@Alfredsparks]

@@EthanDolan1274 To clarify, the book published by Banner of Truth includes testimonies of 50 Priests, not 5. It is called "Far from Rome, Near to God." - Ethan, I did listen to the full interview, helpful clarification on the authority of the WCF vs. The Bible: The WCF is a subordinate standard that has 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘭 authority, while the Bible is the final standard with 𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘭 authority in the church. In a Reformed Church, the Westminster Standards, for example, do not have more authority than the bible (not implying you said this), but they do have more authority than me. It seemed like the part of the video where this came up could have used this classic distinction (employed by many including Bavinck)

[@stevenstuart4194]

This guy didn't properly represent Arminians. They aren't Semi-Pelagian.

[@EthanDolan1274]

If I misrepresented them, it was due to ignorance. Anything I can read on it?

[@aderousse6]

@@EthanDolan1274 I would recommend “Arminian Theology Myths and Realities” by Roger Olson. Particularly chapters 6 & 9. I just skimmed through it and saw an explanation of Semi-Pelagianism in chapter 6. I read it a few years ago and found it helpful when talking to my Calvinist friends. If you end up checking it out you can really just read the first few pages of each chapter if you want to get the gist quickly. That’s where he explains the main points, after that he quotes Arminian theologians for the rest of each chapter.

[@EthanDolan1274]

@@aderousse6 Thank you!

[@stevenstuart4194]

@@EthanDolan1274 Thank you for your response. The Arminians historically, and Jacob Arminius specifically, rejected unconditional election, but they all affirmed the necessity of prevenient grace for any man to have the ability and willingness to cooperate with God's grace. This rejects both the Pelagian and Semi-Pelagian paradigm. Jacob Arminius's strenuously rejects any notion that man is free to believe apart from prevenient grace. Further he asserts faith is the pure gift of grace. Here is a link to his own works: www.ccel.org/ccel/a/arminius/works1/cache/works1.pdf

[@kingdomofthewesternsahara-2588]

This guy completely misunderstands the reformed tradition

[@EthanDolan1274]

Mind sending me an email (in the description of the video) to explain how?

[@TheRevoltingMan]

What is this obsession educated men have with forcing their answers to questions no one asked down every one else’s throats? Most of this stuff is irrelevant gobbledygook but you’re excommunicating each other over it. This is the main danger of an all powerful hierarchy and probably the main reason why God didn’t establish one in His Word.

[@limoncellosmith7594]

Wow your powers of comprehension are clearly superior to everyone else's! Thanks for sharing.

[@carolinegainey3257]

I’m sorry I couldn’t finish listening to this podcast…’um’! Lots of great topics but I couldn’t get past the ‘ums’.

[@josephbrandenburg4373]

I don't think Ethan ever said anything to Sola Scriptura. He makes good points about the hazard of interpretations, but that isn't related to Sola Scriptura except tangentially. Sola Scriptura means that the Scripture is the ultimate authority - no other authority can supercede scripture. It doesn't mean that the church has no authority. And this is the most important thing to me. How can the Catholic church ever reform? The only reason we Protestants exist is because the Catholic church wasn't flexible enough to accommodate an internal reform movement. Protestant churches have the problem of being too varied, too dependent on individual theologians, whatever you want. But what we don't have is the baggage of 2000 years of wolves occasionally getting in with the sheep and claiming to speak for the shepherd.

[@ScreamingReel500]

Back then, not everyone is literacy. Beside Holy Scriptures, there is Sacred Scriptures. Yes, you are correct that "wolves occasionally getting with the sheep". I would say more than 'occasionally' (You can see that in the 'letters to the 7 Churches' in Revelation). Remember, Jesus do not want to share the understanding to all when he explained the parable so that the wise and the learn cannot understand it but only the lowly and simple folk (sheep) by the will of the Father. We cannot reform the doctrines, which most Protestants took it too far and became Relativists. The Truth cannot be won by a democratic vote. "The Truth cannot deceive nor being deceived."

[@josephbrandenburg4373]

@@ScreamingReel500 But the problem is, how do you rightly discern what doctrines are from God? If you don't get them from the scriptures, where do you get them, and how can you be sure they are right? What if one of the many terrible popes introduced some false teaching at some point? You just have to accept that rhey haven't because they can't. And so the next pope can't go back on the previous teaching, either. I wouldn't even have such a problem if there was a way to abrogate, but then the minute you do that, you lose the claim of infallibility all the same.

[@EthanDolan1274]

The purpose of this interview was not so much to address particular topics such as sola scriptura. I agree that the definition given by the Reformed is that scripture is the sole infallible rule of faith and practice. I actually pointed out that sola scriptura is a much stronger and more reasonable position than most Catholics would acknowledge. I'll consider making another video on why I came to disagree with it. For spoilers, it was more because I think scripture teaches that there is, in fact, an infallible teaching authority taught explicitly in scripture than any insufficiencies in sola scriptura itself.

[@limoncellosmith7594]

Sola Scriptura is…not scriptural.

[@josephbrandenburg4373]

@@EthanDolan1274 Thank you for your response. I'd love to see you go more deeply into the topic.

[@terarmy4767]

Just a few minutes in and his misunderstandings of Calvinism are plentiful. It only got worse with each passing minute as I decided to listen to the whole episode. One confused theologian for sure.

[@EthanDolan1274]

Care to clarify what they are?

[@kellibuzzard9431]

I can't wait for this episode! I have followed Christ for 40 years, was an Evangelical missionary for 7 years, during which time I embraced Calvinism. From there, I attended a Reformed seminary. Just two months ago, I came Home to Mother Church. Praise God.

[@magnolia31611]

Welcome home! I was born into an evangelical church, then raised Presbyterian from the age of 8 or so, ended up marrying my Catholic husband 10 years ago, and finally came home to The Catholic Church in 2020❤️

[@therese_paula]

🥰🤗

[@joejohnston3]

Wow, what a story!

[@joebaasch4427]

Praise God!

[@bernadettesolomons1870]

@@magnolia31611God bless you sister

[@stephencotter538]

A Calvinist friend of mine helped me to become a much better Catholic. He used to hammer me with questions that Inhad no answer to, except for, "I pray, and I pray a lot, and I am sure that our Lord has led me back to the Catholic faith." Anyway, I didnt like not having answers about Marian things, Eucharist, confession, and all the regular objections. The more I sought out answers to his questions, the more I fell in love with the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Praise God! He is still a great friend and a great man, much love to our Calvinist brothers and sisters in Christ.

[@glennlanham6309]

look up Brant PItre....Jewish roots of Eucharist, Jewish roots of Mary...I just gave the one on the eucharist to my Calvinist brother-in-law

[@nicholasgeorge7825]

Yeah, no wonder you both get along. Calvin thought he was simply creating the true Catholic faith. Both of you resist the Holy Spirit. You need Pentecost. You need power. Answers are good. But only for the right questions.

[@glennlanham6309]

@@nicholasgeorge7825 I see the Spirt has given you the power to read souls, quite impressive

[@glennlanham6309]

@@nicholasgeorge7825 Calvin THOUGHT he was, but he was pre-destined to be WRONG

[@nicholasgeorge7825]

@@glennlanham6309 Ah, thanks brother. I have some discernment, but mostly a sharp tongue. Should work on that for '23!

[@gijoe508]

The questions he was asking were the same ones I asked when I converted from Presbyterianism, I had a pastor tell me you couldn’t trust your reason because of the fall, and I’m like then how are you supposed to interpret scripture? Great interview.

[@josephbrandenburg4373]

That Presbyterian pastor was onto something. That's essentially the argument Tim Stratton makes against Calvinism.

[@Call_Upon_YAH]

They with ears to hear, let them hear: Through the Holy Spirit, God has put it on me to preach to those lost in the devil's deceit! Hear me when I say, ye that are Catholic have been deceived and know not God. Ye worship Mary, praying to her; when God tells his to worship none other than him. It is idolatry. Catholicism has its own Bible and teachings, which are blasphemous to the word of God: the Holy Bible. As ye follow the teachings of man and not God; ye hear the pope, but not Jesus, yet ye claim to be his disciples! These are but a few things I named ye dwell within; there are many more. I tell you now to repent of your sins, accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, and you'll receive the gift of the Holy Spirit upon asking the Father! There are *NO* sub-divisions of Christianity. You're either a disciple of Christ or not. A Christian is someone who follows God's word, not a religion. Who obey the Father and follow his will; not man's nor their own heart's. Unless you keep Jesus' commandments, think not the Holy Spirit will dwell within you! They who heed this message and did what was stated with an open heart to God... Read the Holy Bible (KJV) daily and every time before you read, pray to the Father and ask: "Lord I ask that you give me understanding of your word, that I interpret it the way you want me to, and none of my own. I ask you in Jesus' name, amen." Revelation 22:8-9 KJV 8 And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. 9 Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God. Acts 2:38 KJV 38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Luke 11:13 KJV 13 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? John 14:21-24 KJV 21 *He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.* 22 Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? 23 Jesus answered and said unto him, *If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.* 24 He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and *the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.* 3 John 1:11 KJV 11 Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. *He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.* 1 John 3:6-10 KJV 6 *Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him.* 7 Little children, let no man deceive you: *he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.* 8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. 9 *Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.* 10 *In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God,* neither he that loveth not his brother.

[@alhilford2345]

@@Call_Upon_YAH : The Holy Bible is certainly a beautiful Catholic book, and Catholics pray the Bible every day.

[@SonOfThineHandmaid]

@@Call_Upon_YAH Among all the weird ideas modern Christians have, KJV-onlyism is one of the downright weirdest.

[@glorybetogodtheholytrinity4643]

Everyone can understand Scripture: • Ephesians 3:3-5 • 2 Corinthians 1:13 • Nehemiah 8:3, 8 • Matthew 24:15

[@kellibuzzard9431]

I have a feeling Ethan might enter the priesthood and teach theology. I am going to pray for that!

[@suzieqgm643]

Me too! I knew him and his family 🙏 we need men like him to be Priests ❤🙏♥️

[@FedericoBautista-n2v]

Not if he dealt with porn he seemingly does not have the gift of celibacy plus the Roman Catholic view of the priesthood is nowhere in the apostolic teaching of the New Testament.

[@jess96154]

The issue of assurance in the Calvinistic system was one of things that eventually led me too to leave Calvinism. Btw, I loved Jimmy's article on a tip toe through the tulip. It made becoming Catholic a little easier.

[@almarodriguez298]

Hi Jess, I highly recommend you Catholic Re.Con. KZbin channel they have great testimony's 🤗

[@laurasmith4498]

There was too much assurance in Reformed theology for you so you became RC?

[@jess96154]

@@laurasmith4498 lol, yep, so much assurance. I just couldn't handle all that assurance. I think the level of assurance that many reformed promote is not possible and leads to constant introspection. For the person that loves God but later falls away, that initial love and faith was not true. And if it can be the case that someone can feel great affection for God and that affection can be false, what hope does anyone have that their current faith is real? I think Jordan Cooper does a good job describing the issues with the reformed view of assurance in his video "Reformed and Lutheran views of assurance contrasted"

[@terarmy4767]

Sorry, but this guy was never a Calvinist. After just minutes he is making statements on behalf of Calvinism that are simply not true. Need to change the title of this episode. Sad and disappointing as I was curious to hear what this guy was going to say.

[@rivereuphrates8103]

​@@terarmy4767No True Calvinist fallacy

[@OkieAllDay]

I believe Calvinism is a heresy from the pit of hell. They teach that God ordains sin (not just allows it to happen), Jesus only died for a limited few, people don't have a free will (in any real sense of the word), and God doesn't love everyone (in any real sense of the word love). No thanks

[@dmitriykinzhebulatov]

it depends. if youre thinking james white calvinism yes. john piper is an example of a more moderate calvinist.

[@EthanDolan1274]

It most certainly is a heresy from the pit of hell. At the same time, it retains many teachings of the Catholic Church and many people find Christ through those teachings which are expounded in their pulpits. For example, the unique mediation of Christ, justification occuring by a supernatural faith which exceeds any ability of man to arrive at on his own, and many other beautiful and glorious truths. The teaching does stray from the Catholic Faith, but that does not mean the individuals holding their positions either rightly understand what they are hearing, or that they have been accurately presented with Catholic Truth. Please pray for many conversions from Calvinism!

[@elizabethking5523]

Amen !!!

[@Neb-ie5mj]

Little things like admitting you struggled with masterbation can unleash great graces on others. I did too for 15 years but will soon be 2 years without doing it. Please comment below if you have similar struggles, wherever you are on that journey. We can overcome

[@pop6997]

I thought Ethan was one of the most brave and sincere guests on Pints tbh. We're all on a journey, we sin and if we didnt we wouldn't need a Saviour. Always remembering that God is Love, and we're his Children.

[@EthanDolan1274]

@@pop6997 Praise God! Please pray for me and for the conversions of many others to the apostolic faith!

[@claymcdermott718]

I struggled from age 11 to age 28. It was rough. It really was affecting my life. Support groups are the only things that work.

[@chase6579]

It's still a great struggle for me.

[@EthanDolan1274]

@@chase6579 Praying for you! Pray for me too please!

[@anitapaulus937]

I converted from a non-practicing Methodist to Catholicism over 30 years ago. I learned a lot through RCIA, and my husband was a cradle Catholic and went through the RCIA program together. Dr Hahn was instrumental in teaching me many things even after my conversion through tapes and books. It’s such a pleasure to watch these programs and hear how people come to the Catholic faith.

[@FirstLast-po8oz]

Very interesting how this college has essentially become a religious authority, acting as teachers, but also spiritual directors and theological disciplinarians to enforce the creeds. I wish our Catholic schools took the students faith seriously like this, but it seems a little strange in a faith tradition that seems to reject the larger disciplinary structure of the Catholic Church (in my own personal experience with those in this vein)

[@aureumursa1833]

Conversations like this are way over my head, but I'm happy to listen and try learning something

[@CatholicReCon]

Very good points, especially the various meanings of words. Scripture does not interpret itself.

[@EthanDolan1274]

Well, it's interesting, it does in a certain sense. We can gather the meaning of some verses by understanding other verses, so they aren't wrong in saying that scripture interprets scripture (of course, in the mind of the reader). The difference is, that's something human reason does (hopefully, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit) so it's possible to misunderstand one or two verses, and it can lead to misunderstanding a whole multitude of verses before you know it if a few of them are interpreted incorrectly. This isn't just a concern for the protestant, the Catholic also has to be incredibly careful with his reading of scripture. The teaching of the Church really helps us read scripture through the right framework, since the Holy Spirit is the soul of the Catholic Church and directly guides and moves the body to accomplish His works through us. The most important thing, however, is just praying, reading the scriptures, and seeking to understand them by looking at what those in the past have taught about them. The Catechism is a beautiful tool that can help Catholics see the beauty of scripture if the time is taken to digest it.

[@CatholicReCon]

@@EthanDolan1274 You're absolutely right. Thanks.

[@calebstarcher4934]

Love the interview. I do however wish Matt would let Ethan ramble on more, I'd love to hear everything he has to say.

[@mrsandmom5947]

Your baptism came back to get you

[@catkat740]

Haha, I thought this too!!!

[@bretttheroux8040]

‘Calvinists are serious Protestants’ made me laugh As a Calvinist, can confirm. There’s a reason calvinists are referred to as ‘the frozen chosen’.

[@suzieqgm643]

Praise God Ethan! It’s Susan Graham Myers from Westfield, Jeremy’s mom from years ago! I worked out with Micah at full plate and I told him how I quit evangelical and became Catholic and lost all my friends. I was confirmed 2 years ago! Welcome Home Ethan! I’m a 2 year old Catholic at the age of 59 at St. John’s in Agawam MA and teaching confirmation class! I’m literally the happiest convert ever! I also found out I was baptized Catholic but never knew it! I’m part of the New Evangelization to reunify Christ’s true church! 🙏♥️🙏 I pray for all the people at Westfield Evangelical Free Church and Pastor Chad’s church to come home to Catholicism ❤❤

[@EthanDolan1274]

That's amazing!!

[@Burberryharry]

We need a part 2 with Wagner ASAP

[@moonrhea7196]

Love hearing this conversation story, his heart reminds me of Theresa of Avila, he has so many beautiful wild horses. I would love to hear you invite more people to talk about their conversation stories. Especially focusing on how difficult conversion can be on the rest of our lives. I feel like I had very little guidance. My life literally fell apart and I lost just about everyone in the process. Don't get me wrong, I would convert all over again, but I wish I had been more gracious in the process. I have come to the Catholic church, but miss the camaraderie amongst the believers in my protestant past.

[@FirstLast-po8oz]

I can very much relate to his struggle to tell his story, as a convert it's been months and months of trying to distill everything that happened and what drew me into the Church, I'm still not good at it. I think conversion is more of a divine mystery than we think of it now in our pluralistic society, we think that conversion just has to do with having the right information and checking the right boxes. But when it happens to you it's more like.....falling in love? It's confusing and you don't understand what's happening to you, all you know is that everything is changing and nothing is the same, you're changed but you can't describe how. I think we can look back and rationalize the journey and the data we processed, but ultimately the answer is that God called us (which I know kind of sounds like a cop out).

[@EthanDolan1274]

This is a perfect description of what it was like! It's not something easily explainable, that's for sure.

[@chase6579]

Totally agree.

[@verum-in-omnibus1035]

As an adult convert from the Protestant religion into Christianity (because make no mistake Protestants are not Christians, Christian is a term used to describe those IN HIS CHURCH) - I do not understand the tippy toe, super walking on egg shells- let’s give everyone the benefit of the doubt to an extreme posture - behavior of people claiming to want to bring souls to the truth of Christ?! I actually do not understand it. My entire life no one spoke clear to me about what the Church was and it took the loss of a child for God to allow me to be humbled to see his Church. Why won’t we speak clearly and honestly and forcefully with charity, and not pretend those who hate the Church of Christ actually are OK?

[@petardraganov3716]

I think this quote by Fullton Sheen is helpful: "There are not one hundred people in the United States who hate The Catholic Church, but there are millions who hate what they wrongly perceive the Catholic Church to be." People hate the Church of Christ because they don't think it is the Church of Christ. And that is an information problem. To bridge the gap we need to let those people spell out their questions and difficulties, so that we may inform them that we "No, do not, in fact, worship Mary/believe people can buy their way out of Purgatory/contradict Scripture/add to Sacred Scripture or Sacred Tradition, etc." You can also show them that the difficulty they are experiencing in their own church is resolved in Catholicism. You can certainly go too far in only letting the others speak and not making the Catholic position known. But I don't see that in this conversation.

[@elperinasoswa6772]

Me too. That's tippy-toey always pissed me off. I love Christ and I love His Church to be tippy toeying around to save ppl's feelings. I say there is only one Christianity worth defending and that's orthodoxy, to hell with mere Christianity. Of the two heresies, Protestanism and Mohammedism, I have to maintain that Protestanism is the worst of the two and ought to not be tolerated.

[@FedericoBautista-n2v]

Thanks for your honesty that sentiment is what led to inquisitions

[@concretesandals4501]

I'm a returning Catholic from the Southern Baptist tradition. It was reading the Gospels of Matthew and John that convinced me of the primacy of Peter (Matthew 16:19) and the Eucharist (John 6:35). Thank God that I turned away from the monstrous deity of Calvinism, who gleefully predestines and tosses people into Hell so that he may get a bit more "glory."

[@terarmy4767]

What a disgusting misrepresentation of Calvinism. You were probably just as safe in the Southern Baptist tradition as you now are in Rome. Not much of a muchness on Soteriology.

[@magnolia31611]

I grew up Presbyterian, and was taught Calvinism, and I had so many of the same questions. I didn’t dive as deeply into it, but it confused me. Once I went through RCIA, sooooo many things started to make so much more sense to me, and helped me to understand why I was so confused for so long.

[@danekata3916]

All of this is happening to me right now.

[@sartoriusrock]

There are some great depths plumbed here very early-on. I'm going to have to listen to this at least once more to truly understand some of the distinctions made.

[@iqgustavo]

🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:00 *📜 Ethan Dolan's Background and Introduction to the Discussion* - Ethan Dolan's upbringing as a Protestant with Catholic parents. - Discussion about his family's departure from the Catholic Church and their journey into Evangelicalism and Calvinism. - Introduction to the conversation about Ethan's conversion from Calvinism to Catholicism. 01:22 *💬 Ethan's Early Exposure to Religious Concepts* - Ethan's childhood exposure to religious teachings and concepts. - The influence of his father's theological discussions and readings on Ethan's understanding of Calvinism. 04:25 *🧔 Calvinist Identity and Impressions* - Perception of Calvinists as serious Protestants within the broader religious community. - Discussion on notable figures like Charles Spurgeon and their representation of Calvinism. 07:00 *📜 Understanding Salvation: Calvinist vs. Catholic Perspectives* - Explanation of the Calvinist doctrine of justification through legal imputation and regeneration. - Introduction to the infusion of grace and familial nature of salvation in the Catholic perspective. 13:01 *💡 Exploring the Complexity of Theological Differences* - Acknowledgment of the complexity and ongoing debate surrounding theological differences between Calvinism and Catholicism. - Recognition of the fundamental divergence in perspectives on sanctifying grace as a pivotal theological point. 17:12 *📚 Understanding Calvinism and Calvinist education* - Growing up immersed in discussions about Calvinism vs. Arminianism. - Exploring the concept of predestination and its similarities between Calvinists and Catholics. 19:31 *🕊️ Exploring the Catholic understanding of original sin and sanctifying grace* - Contrasting the Catholic perspective on original sin with the Calvinist view. - Discussing the significance of sanctifying grace in Catholic theology. 22:44 *💭 Views on Catholicism during high school and early exploration of faith* - Reflecting on initial perceptions of Catholicism as non-Christian due to theological differences. - Questioning aspects of Catholic doctrine and its divergence from Protestant beliefs. 25:03 *🎓 Academic aspirations and struggles with assurance of salvation* - Desire to pursue teaching in academia and the influence of faith on career aspirations. - Struggles with assurance of salvation within the Calvinist theological framework. 28:29 *🤔 Comparison of assurance of salvation in Calvinism and Catholicism* - Discussing the concept of infallible assurance of salvation in Calvinism and its implications. - Highlighting similarities in the experiences of assurance between Calvinists and Catholics. 35:23 *🕊️ Calvinist understanding of grace and salvation history* - Differences in the Calvinist view of grace compared to Catholic understanding. - Impact of differing views on salvation history and soteriology. 38:22 *🌊 Calvinist perspectives on baptismal regeneration* - Range of Calvinist views on baptismal regeneration, from symbolic to sacramental. - Debate between Presbyterians and Reformed Baptists on infant baptism. 43:16 *🍞 Calvinist understanding of the Eucharist* - Spectrum of Calvinist views on the Eucharist, from symbolic to participatory. - Comparison between Calvinist and Catholic perspectives on transubstantiation. 45:07 *🛤️ Journey towards Catholicism* - Exploration of the concept of a visible church and its significance. - Transition from questioning ecclesiology to accepting sacramental theology. 53:46 *🍞 Transubstantiation and Real Presence* - Exploring the concept of transubstantiation and real presence in the Eucharist. 57:06 *🕊️ Exploring Catholic Practices* - Reflecting on the significance of attending a Catholic mass and the practical implications of considering Catholicism. - Evaluating the challenge of incorporating Catholic beliefs into existing Calvinist perspectives. 58:01 *🔥 Turning Point: Recognition and Research* - Recognizing the need for deeper understanding through research, particularly on baptismal regeneration. - Acknowledging a shift in perspective towards Catholic teachings, leading to a reassessment of theological positions. 59:47 *💡 Spiritual Awakening and Academic Pursuits* - Reflecting on personal shortcomings and embracing a newfound focus on spiritual growth and academic inquiry. - Highlighting the transformative impact of theological studies on personal beliefs and perspectives. 01:00:43 *🔄 Reevaluation and Augmenting Theological Understanding* - Reevaluating theological positions in light of newfound insights, particularly regarding baptismal regeneration. - Recognizing the necessity of a comprehensive understanding of Catholic teachings to engage in meaningful theological discourse. 01:05:12 *💭 Challenge of Interpretation and Coherence* - Wrestling with the challenge of interpreting scripture coherently within differing theological frameworks. - Exploring the complexities of defining fundamental theological concepts such as faith within divergent theological traditions. 01:09:41 *📚 Confessional Authority and Interpretation* - Discussing the role of confessions in guiding interpretation and the practical implications of adherence to doctrinal statements. - Evaluating the tension between individual interpretation of scripture and the authority of doctrinal confessions. 01:11:47 *📜 Understanding the role of Creeds and confessions in theology,* - Discussion on the role of Creeds and confessions in Christian theology. - Exploration of how these statements relate to scripture and human reason. 01:15:34 *🚫 Experiencing consequences for theological exploration,* - Ethan Dolan recounts the consequences he faced for questioning theological doctrines at his Calvinist bible college. - Description of meetings with college officials regarding doctrinal beliefs. 01:24:21 *🤝 Seeking guidance and support from Catholic figures,* -Ethan Dolan shares his journey of reaching out to Dr. Scott Hahn and other Catholic figures for guidance. - Discussion on the significance of mentorship and support during theological transitions. 01:28:49 *🕊️ Understanding Catholic Doctrine* - Exploring Catholic teachings on faith and works. - Recognizing scriptural support beyond "faith alone." 01:31:08 *📜 Insights from Saint Thomas Aquinas* - Learning about the Catholic view of justification. - Understanding the role of faith, hope, and love in Catholic theology. 01:35:18 *🤝 Connecting with Dr. Scott Hahn* - Seeking guidance from Catholic scholars like Dr. Scott Hahn. - Experiencing providential moments in seeking assistance from Dr. Hahn. 01:44:24 *📚 Conversion journey and dialogue with Dr. Hahn* - Ethan Dolan discusses his conversion journey from Calvinism to Catholicism. - Highlights a dialogue with Dr. Scott Hahn about predestination and Catholic practices. 01:46:01 *🛤️ Discovering Catholic thought in Protestantism* - Ethan reflects on how Catholic thought is foundational to Protestant beliefs. - Discusses the beauty of Catholic teachings elevating Protestant perspectives. 01:47:40 *📖 Reading and interpreting Catholic literature* - Ethan discusses reading Catholic literature, particularly Dr. Scott Hahn's works. - Reflects on the impact of interpreting Revelation through liturgy. 01:51:56 *🤔 Wrestling with papal infallibility and doctrinal interpretation* - Ethan grapples with the concept of papal infallibility and its implications. - Discusses challenges in reconciling Pope Francis's actions with Catholic teachings. 01:57:04 *📜 Evaluating scriptural interpretation and theological coherence* - Ethan explores the challenge of determining the correct interpretation of Scripture. - Reflects on how adopting a Catholic lens reshapes his understanding of Scripture. 02:02:31 *📖 Discussing the importance of clarifying definitions in theological discussions* - Emphasizes the need to focus on the realities signified by words, not just the words themselves. - Highlights the frustration of miscommunication on social media due to assumptions about word meanings. 02:03:28 *🛐 Ethan Dolan's journey to full communion with the Catholic Church* - Describes how Ethan discovered Dr. Scott Hahn through online debates about Catholicism. - Recounts the process of meeting Dr. Hahn and eventually deciding to join the Catholic Church. 02:07:18 *🚶‍♂️ Interactions with family and advice for Catholic children of non-Catholic parents* - Discusses the initial difficulty with parents regarding his conversion but acknowledges their loving concern. - Advises showing love and respect towards non-Catholic parents despite differences in religious beliefs. 02:11:10 *🎓 Future plans and experiences at Franciscan University* - Mentions plans to continue studies at Franciscan University and expresses gratitude for the hospitality of Dr. Scott Hahn. - Briefly discusses the Anglican Ordinariate and highlights the transformative experience of attending Mass as a new Catholic.

[@boedye]

As a graduate from a Reformed Seminary, as well as being near a Reformed Calvinist College (actually the one where JG Voss taught and lived), it's nice to hear there are others who have a similar experience. I am finding myself in a rather unfortunate position because a few of my friends in the reformed camp and not happy with mine and my wife's joining of the RC Church.

[@joejohnston3]

This was an awesome episode - one of my favorites. On our way to Rome (before we knew we were on the way!), we spent quite a bit of time as Presbyterian/Reformed. It was wonderful to hear Ethan's experiences and thoughts. Matt, I hope you'll have him back often.

[@pete4258]

Actually the praying Litany of Saints was actually a BETTER story than his friend just quitting. That was one of the best stories I have heard. Ave Maria...🙏

[@EthanDolan1274]

Thank you Pete! In retrospect, I certainly agree. Please pray a litany of the saints for me!

[@pete4258]

@@EthanDolan1274 I think there is a reason the Holy Spirit is guiding good Protestants back into the Church. We need you back. These are trying times. Jesus promised his Church will prevail and I believe him explicitly. I will pray a Litany of the Saints for you. Please pray for me to Mother Mary. God bless 🙏

[@Selahsmum]

The saints are praying for me! Just love it.

[@tjs.5044]

When are you going to have Christian B. Wagner (Scholastic Answers/ Militant Thomist on KZbin) on the show?