Magisterium
How does the Magisterium's authority derive from Scripture and Tradition, and how is it distinct from them, without becoming circular reasoning?
It derives from scripture and tradition by divine origin, servant of revelation, authentic interpretation, and three legged stool. It is distinct because it is not self-interpreting, is defined by its limits, and rooted in apostolic succession.
What is the scope and limit of Papal and Conciliar infallibility, and how do these infallible pronouncements differ from the ordinary, non-infallible teachings of the Church?
Papal and Conciliar infallibility in Catholicism protects the Church from error only when the Pope or a united Ecumenical Council definitively define doctrines on faith or morals for the entire Church, preserving revealed truth, not creating new revelations or making the Pope personally infallible in all matters.
How does the Magisterium interpret and apply timeless revelation to complex modern moral dilemmas like bioethics, technology, or social justice?
The Magisterium interprets timeless revelation for modern dilemmas by grounding teachings in Scripture and Tradition, using reason and Natural Law, and applying virtues like prudence, to guide on issues like bioethics (sanctity of life), technology, and social justice.
What is the relationship between the Pope and the Bishops (the episcopal college) in exercising the Magisterium, and how does this ensure unity and continuity?
The Pope, as Peter's successor and head of the Church, holds supreme, universal power, but exercises the Magisterium with the College of Bishops in a united way, never independently. This "College" shares supreme authority with the Pope but can only exercise it with his consent, creating a single subject of power.
When and how does the Magisterium clarify or develop doctrine (dogmatic development), and what is the faithful's obligati to assent to these evolving understandings?
The Catholic Magisterium clarifies and develops doctrine through the Holy Spirit's guidance, deepening understanding of Revelation via Scripture/Tradition, leading to clearer, fuller, yet unchanging truths, often spurred by challenges (heresies) to define dogma, requiring faithful assent with varying degrees of religious submission depending on the teaching's authority level.