Discussion Questions with Answers
Foundation and Scripture
- Question: Chapter 3 establishes Christ as the foundation for the Church’s hierarchy, but doesn’t cite specific Scriptures. How can we connect this concept to biblical passages that speak of Christ’s authority over the Church (e.g., Ephesians 1:22-23)?
- Answer: While Lumen Gentium doesn’t directly answer this question, it lays the groundwork for this connection. Explore concepts like Christ as the head of the Church and link them to passages like Ephesians 1:22-23 which explicitly state Christ’s leadership role.
Apostolic Commission
- Question: The chapter emphasizes the continuity between Christ and the Apostles. Drawing from the Gospels (e.g., Matthew 28:16-20), how does Jesus’ entrusting of his mission to the disciples support the concept of apostolic succession?
- Answer: The chapter highlights the link between Christ and the Apostles, who weren’t just followers but entrusted with carrying on Christ’s mission. Passages like Matthew 28:16-20 (The Great Commission) depict Jesus entrusting the disciples with this mission, implying a transfer of authority to future generations of Church leaders, the Bishops seen as successors to the Apostles.
Bishops and Successors
- Question: The document explains how Bishops succeed the Apostles. Are there any limitations to this concept? How can passages like 1 Timothy 4:14 (laying on of hands) and Titus 1:5 (appointing elders) contribute to the understanding of Bishops’ roles?
- Answer: Lumen Gentium focuses on continuity between Apostles and Bishops, emphasizing the College of Bishops acting together, suggesting apostolic succession isn’t vested in individual Bishops. Scriptures like 1 Timothy 4:14 (laying on of hands) and Titus 1:5 (appointing elders) offer connections to the development of Bishops’ roles as successors entrusted with carrying on Christ’s mission.
Charisms vs. Hierarchy
- Question: The Church affirms both the importance of spiritual gifts (charisms) and the hierarchical structure. How do these concepts work together in the life of the Church? Can you find scriptural examples of both charisms and hierarchy functioning (e.g., 1 Corinthians 12 & Acts 15)?
- Answer: Lumen Gentium suggests both charisms and hierarchy work together. The Holy Spirit empowers individuals, while the structure ensures order and proper use of these gifts within the Church community. Scriptures like 1 Corinthians 12 showcase charisms, while Acts 15 demonstrates the hierarchical structure in action through a collaborative decision-making process.
Universality vs. Particularity
- Question: The chapter focuses on the College of Bishops, but the Church also exists in local communities (parishes, dioceses). How does the universal structure of the College of Bishops relate to the particular needs of local churches?
- Answer: Lumen Gentium emphasizes both the universal Church and local churches. The College of Bishops ensures core beliefs are maintained, while local churches cater to specific needs. The principle of communion bridges these, with local churches adhering to core doctrines and collaborating with the College of Bishops, who provide guidance and support.
Laity and Clergy
- Question: Lumen Gentium discusses the hierarchy primarily in terms of ordained ministry. How does the role of the laity fit into the Church’s hierarchical structure? Are there scriptural examples of the laity playing a vital role in the Church (e.g., Acts 8:4)?
- Answer: While focusing on ordained ministry, Lumen Gentium acknowledges the laity’s role. All baptized Christians are called to be part of the Church’s life and mission, bringing their skills and experiences to enrich the Church. Scripture offers examples of the laity actively participating, like Acts 8:4 where believers spread the Gospel after persecution.
Evolving Understanding
- Question: The Church’s understanding of its structure has developed over time. How can we ensure that the hierarchical structure remains faithful to its scriptural foundation while adapting to meet contemporary needs?
- Answer: Lumen Gentium establishes a foundation for considering this. The document emphasizes both stability (continuity with Christ and the Apostles) and dynamism (guidance of the Holy Spirit). The Church can ensure faithfulness by examining structures in light of Scripture and adapting practices to serve the needs of the faithful in a changing world.
Ecumenical Concerns
- Question: This chapter focuses on the Catholic Church’s hierarchy. How does the concept of apostolic succession relate to discussions with other Christian denominations that have different structures of leadership?
- Answer: Apostolic succession is a core Catholic belief with Bishops seen as successors to the Apostles. This concept might influence discussions with other denominations. Here are some approaches for ecumenical dialogue: highlighting
- Highlighting shared apostolic origins in the teachings and mission of the Apostles.
- Focusing on the shared purpose of the Church to spread the Gospel and serve God’s will, with different leadership structures seen as variations on a common theme.
- Considering mutual recognition of ministries and leadership structures in other denominations, even if they differ from the Catholic understanding of apostolic succession.
Challenges and Considerations
- Protestant views often reject apostolic succession entirely, creating a hurdle in discussions.
- Ecumenical dialogue could explore how Scripture informs leadership structures in different denominations.
Authority and Service
- Question: The hierarchical structure can be seen as an expression of Christ’s authority in the Church. How can those in positions of authority within the Church ensure their leadership is one of service, following the example of Christ who came “to serve, not to be served” (Matthew 20:28)?
- Answer: Lumen Gentium doesn’t directly address this but offers principles:
- Christ’s model of servant leadership calls those in authority to follow suit.
- Ministries within the Church exist “for the good of the whole body” (Lumen Gentium, 18), suggesting a service-oriented approach.
- The importance of both charisms and hierarchy suggests collaboration, where leaders empower the use of charisms for the community’s benefit.
Additional Thoughts
- Leaders should prioritize the needs and well-being of the Church community.
- Authority figures act as stewards entrusted with care, not self-serving lords.
- Effective leadership involves empowering others to use their gifts and talents.
- Leadership should be modeled after Christ’s humility and service.
Personal Implications
- Consider how understanding the Church’s hierarchy impacts your daily life as a Catholic.
- Reflect on how you can participate more actively in the mission of the Church within the established structure.
Sharing
Jesus last words on Earth were to his disciples, can be found in Matthew Chap 28 when Jesus told his disciples, “Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
Jesus calls all of us to share in his redemptive mission here on Earth. I would ask you to share these posts with your family, your friends and your acquaintances, and then share it with a couple of individuals that you may may not be comfortable sharing with, keeping in mind always the words of Jesus, And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age
Author utilized AI in the preparation of this post.