2.3. Can doctrine develop over time, as Cardinal Newman wrote?

2 - Doctrine Heresy and the Preservation of the Faith
Written By Steve John

Yes—but only in the sense of organic development, not alteration. As Cardinal Newman explained, true doctrinal development is like a seed growing into a tree: its essence remains the same, even as its expression and understanding may become more explicit.

The Church has always deepened her understanding of revealed truth, especially in response to heresies or new challenges. However, any true development must:

  • Be homogeneous with past teaching,

  • Never contradict earlier dogma,

  • And serve to clarify, not redefine, what has always been believed.

Any contradiction of prior teaching is not development, but doctrinal corruption, which is condemned.

Steve John
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2.2. Who has the authority to interpret Scripture and determine what is Apostolic Tradition?
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2.4. Can Catholic doctrine or dogma change over time?