What are the differences between Catholics and
born-again Christians?
Roman
Catholicism is a continuing expression of the earliest Christian
communities. It values apostolic authority, a three-level hierarchy
of ordained ministries, the unique role of the Virgin Mary, standardized
sacramental liturgies, infant baptism, monastic orders, saints as
intermediaries and guides to faith, and tradition-based teaching.
Born-again
communities arose from a time when some Christians felt it necessary
to break with Rome's continuing expressions because, in their opinion,
Roman practices had become corrupt. These reformed traditions tend
to be more independent of any external ecclesiastical authority.
They form around a single pastor, or possibly a senior pastor and
staff. They emphasize Biblical teaching, baptism at an older age,
variety in worship, the direct impact of the Holy Spirit, and life-transforming
experiences known as conversion or being saved.
—Tom
Ehrich
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