puppyshoes

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The was only one church until 1050 AD. At that time the church split in half, mostly over the role of the pope. The eastern church saying that the Bishop of Rome had no more ore less authority than any other bishop. The Western Church excommunicated the Eastern Church. Of course, the protestant movement grew out of Martin Luther in the the century. In the early days of the Church in the 1st and 2nd centuries, the different books of the bible were for the most part where they ere written. The Church was based on the teachings of the Apostles, inspired by the Holy Spirit, not only doctrine but also how the service itself should be conducted. The Eastern Orthodox still follow this belief of "Apostolic succession." The Orthodox believe that Bible was inspired by the Holy Spirit, we just know we were there before the Bible was even written. What's more, It was 4th century bishops, who by fervent prayers for the Holy Spirit to guide them, decided what writings belonged in the Canon and which ones didn't. The letter that Barnabas wrote was rejected, both letters of Clement, Polycarp and many others legtimate,not gnostic. To this day all Orthodox Christians are part of a worldwide Church. The Patriarch of Constantinople is the "first among the equals." He has no right to ever speak ex cathedra, or rather to speak infallibly. We Orthodox want everything to stay the same the slightest detail. The Church doesn't need improvement. Jesus is the Alpha and Omega, so is His Church.