Podcast Summary: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)

Episode: Day 17: The Canon of Scripture
Release Date: January 17, 2025
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Produced by: Ascension

Introduction

In Day 17 of The Catechism in a Year, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into The Canon of Scripture, exploring the foundational aspects of both the Old and New Testaments. This episode, spanning paragraphs 120 to 127 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, aims to elucidate the importance of the Scriptures, the indisputable value of the Old Testament, the sanctity of the New Testament, and the meticulous formation of the Gospels.

Opening Prayer

Fr. Mike begins the episode with a heartfelt prayer, inviting listeners to seek clarity and understanding amidst life's complexities. The prayer emphasizes trust in God's presence within the "mess" of our lives and history, asking for illumination to comprehend God's nature and our identity more profoundly.

Timestamp [00:05]:
"Father in heaven, we thank you, we give you praise. You enter into time with us..."

Understanding the Canon of Scripture

Definition and Composition

Fr. Mike defines the Canon of Scripture as the complete list of sacred books recognized by the Church, encompassing 73 books divided into the Old Testament (46 books or 45 if Jeremiah and Lamentations are counted as one) and the New Testament (27 books). He enumerates these books, highlighting their divinely inspired nature.

Timestamp [05:30]:
"The Canon of Scripture includes 46 books for the Old Testament... and 27 for the New."

The Indispensable Old Testament

Contrary to the views of some who dismiss the Old Testament as obsolete post-Jesus, Fr. Mike asserts its indispensable role in Sacred Scripture. He emphasizes that the Old Testament remains permanently valuable, never revoked, and serves as a prophetic foundation for the coming of Christ.

Timestamp [12:15]:
"The Old Testament is an indispensable part of Sacred Scripture... The Old Covenant has never been revoked."

He references Dei Verbum to explain that while some Old Testament matters are "imperfect and provisional," they collectively bear witness to God's saving love. These books offer profound teachings on God, wisdom for human life, and a treasury of prayers, all containing the mystery of salvation.

Defense Against Marcionism

Addressing historical challenges, Fr. Mike discusses Marcionism, a heresy that sought to nullify the Old Testament in light of the New. He underscores the Church's vigorous opposition to such views, reaffirming the unity and continuity of God's revelation through both Testaments.

Timestamp [18:45]:
"The Church has always vigorously opposed the idea of rejecting the Old Testament under the pretext that the New has rendered it void, as in Marcionism."

The New Testament: Heart of Salvation

Fr. Mike highlights the New Testament as the true Word of God, instrumental for salvation to all who have faith. He passionately describes how the New Testament, centered on Jesus Christ, presents God's ultimate revelation through His life, teachings, passion, and resurrection.

Timestamp [22:10]:
"The Word of God, which is the power of God for salvation to everyone who has faith, is set forth and displays its power in a most wonderful way in the writings of the New Testament."

The Primacy of the Gospels

Emphasizing the Gospels as the heart of all Scriptures, Fr. Mike explains their central role in conveying the life and teachings of Jesus. He elaborates on the three stages of Gospel formation:

1. Life and Teaching of Jesus: The earthly ministry, actions, and words of Christ.
2. Oral Tradition: The apostles' oral recounting of Jesus' deeds, enriched by the Holy Spirit.
3. Written Gospels: The sacred authors' compilation of selected oral and written traditions, ensuring the truthful portrayal of Jesus.

Timestamp [25:50]:
"The Gospels are the heart of all the Scriptures because they are our principal source for the life and teaching of the Incarnate Word, our Savior."

Personal Reflections and Saints' Insights

Fr. Mike shares inspiring quotes from saints to illustrate the profound impact of the Gospels:

• Saint Caesarea the Younger:

  "There is no doctrine which could be better, more precious and more splendid than the text of the Gospel."
  [32:00]

• Saint Therese of Lisieux:

  "But above all, it's the Gospels that occupy my mind when I'm at prayer. My poor soul has so many needs, and yet this is the one thing needful."
  [34:20]

These reflections underscore the Gospels' enduring significance in personal spirituality and prayer life.

Formation of the Canon: Historical Councils

Fr. Mike traces the canonization process of the Scriptures, emphasizing that the Church, through Apostolic Tradition, discerned and affirmed the sacred books. Key historical milestones include:

• Council of Rome (382): First promulgation of the 73-book canon.
• Council of Hippo (393) & Council of Carthage (397): Reaffirmations of the canon.
• Ecumenical Council of Florence (1442) & Council of Trent (1546): Definitive confirmations, especially in response to Protestant challenges.

He explains that the oral tradition preceded the written canon, highlighting the Church's role in preserving and authenticating Scriptural texts.

Timestamp [40:10]:
"The Church has given us this list, right? This canon of Scriptures, all 73 books."

The Living Tradition of the Church

Fr. Mike emphasizes that the Church's living tradition is paramount in understanding and preserving Sacred Scripture. He notes that early Christians did not have an official list; rather, Scripture was proclaimed within the community, guided by the Holy Spirit. The eventual codification of the canon was a recognition of what had long been held in tradition.

Timestamp [42:35]:
"Sacred tradition is what gives us sacred Scripture. That is so remarkable."

Modern Applications and Personal Reflections

Fr. Mike encourages listeners to incorporate the Gospels into their daily lives, much like saints did. He envisions utilizing modern technology—such as apps—to access and meditate on the Gospels regularly, fostering a deeper connection with Christ.

Timestamp [50:00]:
"Wouldn't it be great if on our device we had the Word of God yet? We have it in podcast form, obviously. But also, wouldn't it be great if we just had maybe an app that we could just open up and read the readings of the day?"

Conclusion and Encouragement

In closing, Fr. Mike expresses pride and encouragement for listeners' progress through the Catechism, urging them to continue steadfastly. He offers prayers and blessings, reinforcing the communal journey toward understanding and living the Catholic faith.

Timestamp [55:15]:
"I'm so, so proud of you for getting through to this place. We're gonna again, keep picking up speed, keep moving forward. I am praying for you."

Notable Quotes

1. Fr. Mike Schmitz [00:05]:

   "Father in heaven, we thank you, we give you praise. You enter into time with us..."

2. Saint Caesarea the Younger [32:00]:

   "There is no doctrine which could be better, more precious and more splendid than the text of the Gospel."

3. Saint Therese of Lisieux [34:20]:

   "But above all, it's the Gospels that occupy my mind when I'm at prayer. My poor soul has so many needs, and yet this is the one thing needful."

4. Fr. Mike Schmitz [50:00]:

   "Wouldn't it be great if on our device we had the Word of God yet?"

Key Takeaways

• Unity of the Testaments: The Old and New Testaments are both divinely inspired and integral to understanding God's revelation.

• Definitive Canon: The Church, through historical councils, has solemnly affirmed the 73-book canon as the authentic Word of God.

• Primacy of the Gospels: The Gospels are central to Christian faith, embodying the life and teachings of Jesus, essential for personal spirituality.

• Living Tradition: The Church's oral and sacred traditions are vital in preserving and interpreting Scripture, ensuring its relevance across generations.

• Personal Engagement: Listeners are encouraged to actively incorporate Scripture into daily life, following the examples of saints, to deepen their faith and relationship with God.

Recommendation:
For those embarking on The Catechism in a Year, Day 17 offers a profound exploration of Scripture's foundation, urging believers to appreciate and engage with the Bible's rich heritage. Whether you're new to Catholic teachings or seeking deeper understanding, this episode is a valuable guide in comprehending the divine pedagogy that shapes the Catholic faith.