If you’ve spent more than seven minutes in an Adventist church, you know there are two constants:
Someone will bring vegan meatballs to potluck.
Someone will bring up the Catholic Church before lesson study ends.
And look — Adventists do have a prophetic framework that gives Rome a starring role. That’s just part of the package, like haystacks or debating whether drums are “worldly.” So this post isn’t about denying prophecy. It’s about everything that happens after the prophecy chart comes out — especially the part where we slide from theological concern into straight-up Catholic-bashing.
1. Because Prophecy Gets Us Excited… Maybe a Little Too Excited
Adventists love a good beast symbol. Throw in a horn or two and we’re basically at Comic-Con.
The problem? Some folks get so hyped by the charts that they forget we’re talking about systems, not your sweet Catholic neighbor who waters your plants when you travel.
2. We Confuse the Papacy With Actual Catholics
Yes, Adventist eschatology has issues with the papal institution.
But your coworker Maria from accounting?
She didn’t write any of those encyclicals, fam.
She just wants to raise her kids and maybe have carbs without guilt.
3. Bashing Is Easier Than Nuance
Prophetic nuance is hard.
Throwaway Catholic jokes are easy.
And when Sabbath School is running short on time, guess what often gets picked? The quick “Catholics are bad” comment — not the thoughtful, nuanced prophetic study we say we’re doing.
4. It Makes Us Feel Theologically Muscular
Some Adventists feel like exposing Rome gives them instant end-times street cred.
You know the type:
Owns four different Daniel & Revelation charts
Calls it “The Papacy™”
Gets suspicious whenever the Pope smiles
Great people. Slightly terrifying energy.
5. It Distracts Us From Our Own Homework
It’s always more fun to talk about another church’s problems than the fact that half our congregations are aging out and the other half are arguing about carpet color.
Catholic-bashing is the Adventist version of procrastination.
So… Why Should We Stop the Bashing?
1. Because Jesus Didn’t Say “Love Your Neighbor… Unless They’re Catholic.”
Pretty sure that verse never made it into any translation, even the obscure ones in the back of the ABC.
2. Because It Damages Our Witness
Telling people “We love you, but your church is the apocalypse starter kit” doesn’t exactly inspire trust.
3. Because Our Prophetic Message Is Stronger Without the Snark
If Adventists believe we’re called to speak truth, then do it with clarity, compassion, and zero burn-book energy.
4. Because Real Catholics Are Not the Beast
Adventist theology critiques systems, not grandmas praying the rosary.
