Paul did not give blanket license to make things up and claim they were the truth by calling them *tradition*.
Jesus soundly condemned tradition whenever He spoke of it.
The Word of God has not changed in 2,000 years and the source documents can still be referenced.
MANY times I’ve asked for a list of the traditions that Paul allegedly gave that were not written down, how we can know for sure they came from him, how we can know that they were faithfully passed down for almost 2,000 years and have yet to get any kind of answer.
Exactly.
‘Tradition’ that is based solely in the Word and helps people to understand, believe, teach, and preach the Word of God is a good thing. It’s not a NECESSARY thing, but as long as it grows the Body of Christ in a healthy way, it’s a good thing.
For example, nearly all of the songs we sing can be counted as tradition, whether they be old songs or contemporary. But it’s good to sing them as long as they accurately convey the Word.
But to use the word ‘tradition’ as a reason to ignore the plain Word of God, or when the tradition becomes more important than the Word? That’s when we have a major problem.
You will NEVER get an answer to that question, because there isn't any answer to it. When I was a Catholic, I didn't question the traditions I figured it would all just check out in the end. It doesn't, of course.
If it’s in the Bible, the Holy Spirit inspired it.
Perhaps our own Little Blue Nun can help!