Pope Leo XIV’s Shocking Take on Why Choose Catholicism Over Protestantism

When Protestant leaders gathered in Vatican City in December 2025, they expected a diplomatic exchange—careful words about unity and respect.

Instead, Pope Leo XIV delivered a message so direct and profound that it stunned the room and challenged Christians everywhere to confront the deepest questions dividing them.

“Did Jesus Christ establish one Church with one living authority, or did He simply give us a book and say, ‘Good luck’?” Pope Leo asked.

This question struck at the heart of Christianity’s 500-year schism.

The pope explained that early Christians faced urgent questions not answered by scripture alone—because the New Testament wasn’t even written yet.

Instead of fracturing, the apostles convened councils, led by Peter, the rock upon whom the Church was built, to make binding decisions under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Pope Leo XIV highlighted the paradox of Protestantism: it relies on Catholic Church authority to define the Bible’s canon but rejects that authority to interpret it.

Without a central teaching authority, Protestantism has splintered into over 40,000 denominations, each claiming the Bible alone yet unable to agree on core doctrines.

Using vivid biblical references, Pope Leo XIV explained that Jesus gave Peter “the keys to the kingdom,” symbolizing real authority to bind and loose—a governmental power, not mere metaphor.

He contrasted this with the American cultural emphasis on individualism and freedom, acknowledging why Protestantism resonates in the U.S. but warning that religious individualism has led to division, not unity.

He likened Christianity to a fruit basket: Catholicism embraces all the fruits—faith, works, tradition, scripture, evangelism, and social justice—while Protestant denominations often emphasize only parts.

The fullness of faith, he argued, is found in the Catholic Church.

Addressing concerns about doctrine development, Pope Leo XIV reassured that the Church does not add new revelations but deepens understanding under the Holy Spirit’s guidance, citing historic councils that clarified essential Christian beliefs.

His pastoral tone invited Protestants and seekers alike to consider the Church Jesus founded—the one promised to withstand the gates of hell.

He acknowledged the Church’s flaws but emphasized its divine foundation and authority.

In closing, Pope Leo XIV challenged listeners: “Why settle for part of the truth when you can have it all?” His words were a call to unity, truth, and faithfulness amid a fractured Christian landscape.