THE PASSING OF A POPE – 29
(a.k.a. Death and Taxes)
4-25-25
by: Jeff Flanick
Direct Comments to:
“In this world nothing is certain except death and taxes.” The preceding statement was penned by Benjamin Franklin in 1789. Franklin was referring to the inevitability of both these unwelcome guests in our lives.
So, I just sat down to write a piece for our blog related to the subject about taxes when news of Pope Francis’ death crossed the internet. Hence, the title of today’s writing came quite easily. Most readers of this blog will be well-versed with the problematic changes Catholicism religiously legislated and the role of the Pope. For example, the Catholic Church has taken credit for “changing” the Sabbath to Sunday (although it hadno such authority to attempt to do so.) Catholicism embraces Idolatry, and repetitive prayer in clear violation of scripture. (see Ex 20:4, Mt 6:7) “Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven” are words spoken by Christ in Matthew 24:9. Even the Word for Pope comes from the ancient Greek language and means father. Calling the leader of the Catholic Church by the term Pope, is indeed calling him your father. This goes against the clear words of Christ Himself!
If you are not familiar with the corruption and confusion generated by Catholicism overthe centuries: and how it’s negatively influenced most of Christianity regarding God’s Truth, and the meaning of God’s written Word––then I would suggest you becomefamiliar with it––it is most troubling and extremely eye opening for a truth seeking Christian!
I personally was struck by much of the commentary regarding Pope Francis’s reign, aswell as conversations regarding his potential successor. The platitudes put forth emphasized how Pope Francis was a “man of the people,” a liberal thinker, and a reformist of sorts. Francis was praised for moving the church in a “new” direction. The focus concerning potential candidates for the throne were also mentioned along the same lines.
There was a keen interest in the forthcoming Pope’s views on social issues, inclusivity and philosophy. However, there was no mention, or attention given to the deceased Pope’s views on what God had to say! The conversation was strictly centered on a man’s point of view––the Pope’s personal vision and wishes for humanity. The desire of many today, is to have the new Pope molded in the image of our modern world and mode of thinking. Many wish for a leader who conforms to the desires of the people, and their need to be accepted just as they are. Pope Francis was called honorable, most holy, so very good on the various world news channels I perused this morning.I”m reminded of Christ’s own words in Mark 10:18, “So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God.” Or how about, “Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well (good) of you! For so did their fathers to the false prophets” (Luke 6:26). I also can’t help but to think of John the Baptist as I listen to this disagreeable blathering of praise lauded upon a true wolf in sheep’s clothing. In Luke 3:16, he records; “John answered, saying, “I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” The pageantry, pride and praise heaped on the Pope and his cohorts is diametrically opposed to the examples we find throughout Scripture. As the world focuses attention on Vatican City, and the man-made machinations of pagan-influenced religion, let’s pray that eyes will be opened to the Truth of God, instead of the Babylonian entertainment and drama set before them. Admittedly, I have to smile at my distraction, but I will resume the second part of the headline, “a.k.a. Death and Taxes,” in my next writing. So, stay tuned! And by-the-way, Ido hope you did indeed file your taxes on time, to avoid any penalties.