10 Common Claims Used to Say “The Catholic Church Is Not Christian

1. Authority Beyond Scripture

Critics argue that the Catholic Church elevates Tradition and the Magisterium alongside Scripture, while they claim the Bible teaches Scripture alone as the final authority (e.g., 2 Tim 3:16–17).

2. Papal Authority Is Not Explicitly Taught

They claim there is no explicit verse stating a single bishop has universal authority over the Church, viewing the papacy as a later institutional development rather than a biblical office.

3. Prayers to Saints Are Seen as Unbiblical

Opponents argue that prayer should be directed to God alone (Matt 6:9), and that asking saints for intercession resembles forbidden practices of addressing the dead (Deut 18:10–11).

4. Marian Doctrines Are Not Explicit in Scripture

Teachings such as the Immaculate Conception and Assumption are said to lack clear biblical statements and are therefore viewed as doctrinal additions.

5. The Mass Is Seen as Re-sacrificing Christ

Some claim that the Mass contradicts Hebrews 10:10–14, which states Christ’s sacrifice was once for all, interpreting the Eucharist as an ongoing sacrifice rather than a memorial.

6. Confession to Priests Is Viewed as Unnecessary

Critics argue that forgiveness comes directly from God alone (1 John 1:9) and that priestly absolution replaces Christ’s sole mediatorship (1 Tim 2:5).

7. Use of Images Is Viewed as Violating the Commandments

They argue that statues and icons violate the prohibition against graven images (Exod 20:4–5), regardless of intent.

8. Salvation Is Seen as Faith Plus Works

Opponents claim Catholic teaching undermines justification by faith alone (Eph 2:8–9), interpreting Catholic theology as teaching salvation through sacraments and merit.

9. Clerical Hierarchy Is Seen as Unbiblical

Some argue that the Bible presents church leadership as plural and local (elders/overseers), not a centralized hierarchical structure with global authority.

10. Doctrinal Development Is Seen as Corruption

Critics argue that later councils and dogmas go beyond apostolic teaching and that true Christianity should look exactly like the earliest New Testament communities.