The New POPE – The Ultimate Usurper!

Tuesday (April 19, 2005), the Pontificate vacated by John Paul II has been filled by Benedict XVI.

Formerly known as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, the new pope – in common with all the other occupants of his office, automatically becomes THE GREATEST USURPER on the globe!

In the very titles he bears, the Pope takes every Person in the Godhead and lays personal claim to it, ensuring that he fits the description of Antichrist given in 2 Thessalonians 2:3&4.

This message emphasises the scale of the blasphemy and idolatry involved in the Papacy as the Pope assumes the titles that properly - and only - belong to the Godhead:

1. GOD THE FATHER
   The Pope is universally referred to as the “Holy Father” - a title that is only used once in the Bible (John 17:11) and is exclusively God the Father’s.

2. GOD THE SON
   Principally through the title, ‘Supreme Pontiff Of The Universal Church,’ the Pope stands in the place of Christ. He usurps all three of our Saviour’s mediatorial offices of Prophet, Priest and King.

3. GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT
   The Pope styles himself the Vicar [representative / substitute] of Christ on earth – but the Holy Spirit is the only one who fully represents Christ on this earth (John 14:16,17&26; 15:26)!

Not without significance is the fact that Benedict XVI concluded his first speech as Pope with the words: "Mary is on our side"! Evidently, he is another devotee of the ecumenical 'goddess'! (cf. Sermon #3 in this series).