I have my own theory that the strengths or weaknesses of the Church are amplified with respect to society at large. The Church is both a mirror of society as well as an agent of change, and can both lead in virtue, as well as lead in scandal and decadence.
As sexual perversion is common in society, and is ignored by the Church, it will thus be amplified within the ranks of the priesthood - as we see now.
The good new is - if the Church finds the strength to take a fearless (and decidedly politically incorrect and difficult) stance on homosexuality and sexual since, it will also eventually lead society to a great renewal and reformation.
[[the strengths or weaknesses of the Church are amplified with respect to society at large.]]
That is because this world is the domain of Satan- and His minions, those who are unsaved, hate God and everyone associated with God- and they lust for any and all chances to villify the church- Yes the scandal is very serious- but I’m talking about other issues which the worldly unsaved folks jump on and magnify in their efforts to vilify and demean God and His people- the world looks on intensely- waiting with baitesd breath for any slip up
As you said=- any weaknesses to do with any church that isn’t liberal is magnified by the God hating servants of Satan
[[if the Church finds the strength to take a fearless (and decidedly politically incorrect and difficult) stance]]
a BIG IF- the church should have immediately come out very strongly in favor of the victims, and made it absolutely certain that the church was not going to tolerate these abominations in the realm of religious service- ever! They should have immediately taken a very serious, very strong position on the issue instead of covering it up for so long-
coments liek the following are NOT helping the church one bit:
Matt Walsh: Pope said sex abuse victims are ‘Great Accuser’ Satan, scandalizing bishops
Matt Walsh comments below:
“I guess he’s saying that the people who are accusing the bishops are Satan, and also the faithful Catholics who are demanding answers, I guess we are also in league with Satan. That appears to be what the Pope is insinuating and I find it to be absolutely horrific,” he added.
What if the reverse is true? Society may reflect the problems in the church. The following passage seems to suggest this.
2 Chronicles 7:14 If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.