THE MAGISTERIUM

TOPIC 4 – FCL 2
 SCRIPTURAL FOUNDATION

“By the authority of Our Lord Jesus

Christ, I appeal to all of you, my friends,
to agree in what you say, so that there
will be no divisions among you. Be
completely united, with only one thought
and one purpose.”
- 1 Cor. 1:10
The Christian Church cannot continue its
mission without the assistance of the living
teaching office which is the
MAGISTERIUM. This is the teaching
authority of the Church in continuing
Christ Mission to humanity. This office is
the servant of God.
 NATURE OF THE MAGISTERIUM
- Magisterium came from the Latin word which means “the
office of master”
- It is the teaching authority of the Roman Catholic Church,
especially as exercised by bishops or the Pope.
 NATURE OF THE MAGISTERIUM
• The Magisterium is the infallible teaching authority of
The Catholic Church. In matters of faith & morals
• It consists of all the Catholic dogmas which constitute the
full deposit of the Catholic faith.
 Magisterium of the Church

• The Magisterium has the task of giving an

authentic interpretation of the Word of God,
whether in its written form or the form of
Tradition, has been entrusted to the living
teaching office of the Church alone. Its authority
in this matter is exercised in the Name of Jesus
Christ.
 Magisterium of the Church

• It means, the task of interpretation has been

entrusted to the bishops in communion with the
successor of Peter, the Bishop of Rome.
• The members of this office or the Church will not
implement any changes of church doctrines and
traditions without their authority and permission.
• The Magisterium is NOT superior to the Word of God,
but is its servant.
• It teaches only what has been handed on to it.
 THE ROLE OF THE MAGISTERIUM

1. Devotedly listens to the Word of God

2. Conscientiously guards the Word of God
- Safeguard the priceless treasure of the Word of God
- Must not lose anything in it, deleting nothing and adding nothing of it.
- Protect against deviation, innovation and heresy.
 THE ROLE OF THE MAGISTERIUM

3. Faithfully explains the Word of God

REFLECTION ON THIS:

•Why do we have to keep the Word

of God/Church teachings
protected/guarded against errors?
•How can you personally keep the
Word of God guarded?