Radical pope changing the church?

Since taking office, Pope Francis’ comments on tradition and doctrine have unnerved conservative Catholics. In a July interview, the Pope was asked about homosexual priests. His response was, “Who am I to judge?” (New York Post, September 19, 2013). When asked about issues of abortion, homosexuality, and contraception, the Pope commented “The dogmatic and moral teachings of the church are not all equivalent. The church’s pastoral ministry cannot be obsessed with the transmission of a disjointed multitude of doctrines to be imposed insistently… the church has the right to express its opinions but not to ‘interfere spiritually’ in the lives of gays and lesbians, expanding on [previous] explosive comments... about not judging homosexuals [emphasis ours]”  (ibid.). Many think the Pope’s stance on these moral issues threaten the church (ibid.).

Scripture reveals that at the end of the age, a major religious figure will come on the scene who will “intend to change times and law” (Daniel 7:25). This “lawless one” or “man of sin” will oppose and exalt himself “above all that is called God or that is worshipped”—he will do away with any semblance of biblical obedience (2 Thessalonians 2:3-10). This “man of sin” will ride on a European beast power and will be instrumental in causing separated “religious daughters” to return to the mother church (see Revelation 17). For more on this end-time religious figure and future beast power, read our free booklet, The Beast of Revelation.