Let me give you a little parable. Almighty God established a paradise on earth, created Adam and Eve, and said, “Do anything you like, but do not eat of the tree which will give you acquaintance with evil. I forbid you to eat of that tree.” But a certain wily serpent came along and said to Eve, “Why has God forbidden you to eat of that tree?” And Eve replied, “God has commanded us not to touch it because He says that He knows that it is not good for us.” The serpent replied, “The real reason is because God is afraid that your eyes will be opened and that you will find out the truth and be equal to Himself.” Adam and Eve ate of the tree and regretted it all their lives. Some Catholics have disobeyed the laws of the Church in this matter and have lost both their faith and their morals. But your explanation of the motives of the Catholic Church has a very familiar ring about it.
Radio Replies Volume 1 by Rev. Dr. Leslie Rumble MSC and Rev. Charles Mortimer Carty
Historical language and viewpoints in the original collection are preserved. For current official teaching, consult the Catechism and the Holy See.
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