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Understanding Divine Revelation and Its Finality in Christ

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Divine Revelation Completed in Jesus Christ

Father Mike Schmitz, through his podcast 'Catechism in a Year', provides an enlightening journey through the Catholic Church's teachings about God's ultimate revelation to humanity. On day nine of the podcast, he focuses on paragraphs 65 to 73 of the Catechism, emphasizing that all divine revelation was completed with Jesus Christ, who is described as the mediator and fullness of all revelation.

The Finality of Revelation in Christ

The podcast highlights that God has historically revealed Himself in stages—initially to Adam and Eve, then through covenants with figures like Noah and Abraham, and later to the people of Israel via Moses, David, and the prophets. This gradual revelation culminated in Jesus Christ. According to Father Schmitz, after Jesus, no further public revelation is expected until His glorious return. This point is crucial as it underscores that Jesus, being both God and man, is the ultimate and complete Word of God—there will be no new revelations beyond Him.

Private Revelations Explained

While public revelation has ceased with Jesus, Father Schmitz discusses 'private revelations', which may still occur but do not form part of the deposit of faith. These are personal messages or visions recognized by the Church but are not mandatory for all believers to accept. They are intended not to add to Christ’s definitive revelation but to help believers live more fully by it during specific historical periods.

Role of Private Revelations

Private revelations must align with established Church teachings; they cannot contradict or claim superiority over what has been divinely revealed through Christ. They might introduce new emphases or deepen existing forms of piety—as seen with approved apparitions like those at Fatima or messages given to saints like Faustina Kowalska regarding Divine Mercy.

The Continuous Unfolding of Revelation’s Significance

Despite the completion of divine revelation with Jesus, its full implications continue to unfold over time. This ongoing process involves discerning and understanding more profoundly what has already been revealed. Historical councils like those in Jerusalem serve as examples where early Christians interpreted aspects of revelation pertinent to their context.

Engaging with Revelation Today

Father Schmitz encourages listeners to engage actively with God’s revealed truth by focusing wholly on Christ without seeking additional novelties or revelations. He stresses that while private revelations can offer valuable spiritual insights and aid in understanding Gospel truths relevant for specific times, they should be approached prudently without undermining or sidelining the core truths already provided through Jesus Christ.

In conclusion, Father Mike Schmitz's reflections remind us that while divine revelation is complete in Jesus Christ, our understanding will continue evolving as we delve more profoundly through prayerful reflection and guided interpretation by Church authorities.

Article created from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v14auCZgM90

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