FAQs About Catholic Scripture

Many questions arise when people study Catholic scripture. These questions are often easily answered, and may lead to profound revelations. Below are answers to some of the most common questions regarding Catholic scripture.

Q: Is there a difference between Catholic and Protestant scripture?

A: Yes, although Catholics and Protestants tend to agree on the New Testament, the main differences are related to the number of canon books in the Old Testament. According to Catholic doctrine, there are 46 divine books in the Old Testament, as decided by the Council of Trent. Seven books are in dispute with the Protestants, however. These book are Tobit, Judith, Wisdom, Sirach, Baruch and 1 and 2 Maccabees. The canonical value of these books is one of the central differences between Catholic and Protestant scripture.

Q: Why are there so many different writing styles in the Bible?

A: Contrary to popular belief, the Bible is not a single book, but rather a collection of books compiled by people throughout the centuries. Its contents were modified and redacted as time went on. In fact, the argument over which books truly belong in the Bible is what separates most sects of Christianity.

Q: How do you know that what is written in the Bible is a true account?

A: Since the Bible is a collection of books, each story differs in its intent. Some stories are true accounts, but that is not always the case. Many of the authors, like Job, wrote their sections of the bible as inspirational stories or debates rather than chronicles of true events. Since these authors are long since dead, there really is no way to know their true intents. As such, it is up to each reader to figure it out for him or herself.