God’s Word Is Never “Yes and No”
St. Paul’s words in Corinthians strike with clarity: “As God is faithful, our word to you is not ‘yes’ and ‘no.’” (2 Corinthians 1:18). Pagan religions, like those who debated whether Zeus created the world—dwelled in contradiction.
During the Exodus, those who responded “yes and no” to God’s command through Moses met His judgment. Confusion and contradiction led to ruin. Only in Christ are God’s promises fully affirmed. “For the Son of God, Jesus Christ… was not ‘yes’ and ‘no,’ but ‘yes’ has been in Him.” (2 Corinthians 1:19)
This unwavering truth defines the faith of the Church.
The Unshakeable “Yes” of Catholicism
Jesus did not speak ambiguously when He said to Peter: “And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church… I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 16:18-19)
There are no uncertain phrases here—only divine affirmation. Catholicism stands on this rock, not on speculation or personal interpretation. That’s why faithful Catholics confidently say “Yes!” to the Church, recognizing in it the clear will of God.
We cannot afford to live in spiritual limbo, tossing between doubts. As members of the Body of Christ, we hold firm to the clarity of God’s Word. The Church teaches, “The Church is the pillar and bulwark of the truth.” (Catechism, 171)
The Keys That Open Heaven
To be Catholic is to receive the fullness of the Sacraments. Catholics joyfully say “Yes!” to Baptism, Confirmation, the Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Matrimony, and Holy Orders. These are not manmade rituals. They are divine instruments for salvation, entrusted by Christ to His Church.
As sacraments administered by validly ordained clergy in apostolic succession, they open the doors of grace. Each one is a key to eternal life, offered with authority from Christ Himself. “The ordained ministry is at the service of the baptismal priesthood.” (Catechism, 1120)
Those who accept only some of these graces reject others that Christ offered to save their souls.
Invitation to Protestants: Say Yes
We lovingly ask our Protestant brothers and sisters: if two sacraments are good, why not all seven? Why not embrace the full gift of the Church Jesus founded?
Can one be content standing before Heaven’s gates, realizing they’ve only opened part of what Christ offered? May all who seek truth ask themselves, “Should I say ‘Yes!’ to the fullness of Christ in His Catholic Church?”
Let us affirm with joy and clarity: “Yes! I will be as Catholic as I can!”
Today’s Simple Rhyme
If we say “No” to Jesus / Does His Salvation leave us?
