Concerning Soteriology...

[The Joey-O]

I have encountered several Roman Catholics who have said things, like: "It's easier to be a Buddhist and make it to Heaven, because they are only accountable for what they know. They don't know Christ (assuming the Buddhist never heard the Gospel message), so they are accountable to far less than a Roman Catholic, who has the full knowledge of the Revealed Truth."

I understand that they get this from the need to say something about those who do not hear the Gospel message. It seems sort of unjust to say that everybody goes to Hell, even if they're never given the chance to go to Heaven. However, it seems that it is incongruant with the Gospel. Christ wanted us to spread the Kingdom, but if it's easier for someone to go to Heaven without the knowledge of faith, why did Christ tell us do that?

I'm basically looking for a Roman Catholic answer that is soteriologicailly sound (because the above example, clearly isn't) and still comes out with God remaining just and good.

In Christ's Love,
JoeyO.

[phatcatholic]

i assert that it is actually [i]more difficult[/i] for a non-Catholic to get to heaven. while ignorance may spare some, it is nothing to bet your life on. the fact is that while non-Catholics may in fact find salvation, there road is much more arduous b/c they do not have access to the many instruments of grace that are available to Catholics. primarily, i have in mind the seven sacraments, and especially the Eucharist. these sacraments are seven [i][b]sure ways[/b][/i] to receive the grace of God. without them, the non-Catholic Christian, or the non-Christian, must find the Lords grace through other means (like praying or reading the bible) that may not always grant us the blessing we which to receive from them (for example, if our prayer is selfish or if we read and/or interpret the bible incorrectly).

so, it is actually quite vital that we share the Truth of Jesus Christ and His Church to the whole world. while non-Catholics can in fact find salvation, the Catholic Church is the most perfect way and as Christians we should always strive for the ideal.

[b]2 Cor 12:31 [/b]But earnestly desire the higher gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way.

i hope that helps

pax christi,
phatcatholic