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Are generational curses real, and does the Bible support the idea that sins can pass down through families? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Jimmy Akin tackles a wide range of fascinating questions from listeners. He explains the Church’s teaching on generational curses, whether Christians can eat food offered to other gods, and when it may be morally permissible to disobey unjust laws. Jimmy also explores deeper philosophical and theological questions, including how we can experience happiness in Heaven before the resurrection of the body, whether a pope emeritus remains a cardinal, and whether delaying confession can itself become sinful. A thoughtful and wide-ranging discussion covering moral theology, Church authority, and practical Catholic living.
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Questions Covered:
- 00:55 - Is there such a thing as generational curses?
- 13:21 - Could you please summarize the church’s teaching on food offered to other gods? Is it a sin to eat it if it’s offered to me or is it fine if I just think of it as something to eat?
- 20:09 - When does illegally acquired power become legal? For example, when can a Chinese person stop obeying the authorities in Taiwan, and henceforth honor the ruling Communists?
- 23:27 - Yes, can you please explain when, if ever, it is okay to disobey laws and rules? Also, while vigilantism is against Catholic teaching, when, if ever, is it appropriate to try to restore justice as an ordinary citizen if corruption has gone so far? Sorry, I know this is very broad but I appreciate any thoughts. Thank you so much. God bless you always, Jimmy.
- 34:13 - How can we be happy in Heaven before the general resurrection if happiness is dependent on chemicals in our brains?
- 44:34 - Is a pope emeritus still a cardinal, or would the next pope need to create his predecessor as a cardinal again so that he could vote in a conclave again?
- 49:00 - Is it an additional sin to delay confession if you know you need to go? Someone on X argued Aquinas says delaying confession is not a sin. I argued that he says it’s impractical to go “immediately,” but it can still be a sin depending on your access to a priest and why you delay.