White smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, signaling the election of a new leader of the Catholic Church. As the first American pope, a Chicago native with missionary roots in Peru stepped into a global spotlight, promising unity and fidelity to the Gospel. Yet, as pundits buzz with takes, the Ask A Christian Podcast cuts through the noise: Jesus, not a pope, is the Church’s foundation. Catholicism claims to represent a significant portion of Christianity, but Scripture points to a narrower path. Let’s unpack this moment with biblical clarity!

A New Pope, A Global Spectacle

The Vatican’s announcement of a new pope sparked jubilation in St. Peter’s Square, with crowds chanting celebration. The new leader chose the name Leo, evoking reformist popes from history. Pundits from various media outlets commented on this moment. Yet, many nod blankly, clueless about Christianity’s roots, swayed by ceremony rather than substance. The Bible warns, “Broad is the way that leads to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat” (Matthew 7:13–14). Is the pomp pointing to Jesus or a man-made path?

Jesus Before Popes, Churches, or Capes

Catholicism claims apostolic succession from Peter, dubbed the “first pope.” But Jesus never made anyone a pope—full stop. Before organized churches, before Catholics or Orthodox argued over “first church” status, there were believers, “first called Christians at Antioch” (Acts 11:26). Before them? The apostles. Before them? Jesus Himself, declaring, “Whosoever believeth in me shall never die” (John 11:26). He offered “living water” freely, no payment required (John 4:10–14). John 3:16 seals it: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). No pope, no institution—just Jesus. How’s that for a foundation?

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The True Church: Christ’s Body

Jesus said, “Upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18). Catholics claim Peter’s the rock; others say it’s faith in Christ. Either way, the Church is Christ’s body, “for whom he gave himself” (Ephesians 5:25). Human traditions, like towers of Babel, start on this foundation but veer off. Catholicism, Orthodoxy, and others claim primacy, yet history shows schisms and challenges—not pure progress. Scripture warns, “Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee” (Proverbs 30:6). When Peter tried adding requirements to the gospel, Paul corrected him (Galatians 2:11–14). Peter repented, returning to Jesus. Shouldn’t we?

Pundits, Popes, and the Path Forward

Talking heads comment on papal elections, but their chatter often misses the mark. Media coverage discusses perspectives and backgrounds, yet few ask: Does this point to Jesus? The Bible’s clear: salvation’s through Christ, not ceremonies. If Peter, the “first pope,” needed correction, so do we all. The true Church isn’t a Vatican or a patriarchate—it’s believers anchored in Jesus. For more on living for Christ, engage with our Theology Unpacked series and explore our broader resources at Linktree.

A new pope’s election is a spectacle, but Jesus remains the story. The Church is His body, not a human hierarchy. Your support helps continue this biblical teaching at Ask A Christian Podcast. Let’s cling to Christ alone!

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