Scholars wonder if St. Matthew knew the writings of St. Paul. The First Gospel was written twenty or so years after Paul’s second letter to the Church at Corinth (written about 57 A.D.) Did St. Matthew quote the words of Jesus, “not the smallest letter or the smallest part of a letter will pass from the law,” as a reaction to the words of St. Paul , “for the letter brings death, but the Spirit gives life.” Catholics like both the Spirit and the “letter.” Today this dichotomy is portrayed as the difference between spirituality and religion. Religion without spirituality is nostalgia — following traditional motions. Spirituality without religion is idolatry — making God in my image instead of understanding the identity of God as taught by tradition.
JUNE142017
By Church Staff
