The Pope is Dead.
But when evaluating any spiritual leader, especially one with global influence like Pope Francis, it’s important to compare their actions and teachings with Scripture, which is the ultimate standard for truth.
While I want to be respectful and balanced in discussing any person living or deceased it's also valid to examine where someone may have strayed from Biblical doctrine. Here's a list of non-biblical or controversial actions and teachings associated with Pope Francis, which many Bible-believing Christians have raised serious concerns about:
1. Promoting Interfaith Unity Without the Gospel
What he did: Frequently emphasized unity with other religions (Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, etc.) without clearly presenting Jesus as the only way to God.
Why it’s unbiblical:
“No one comes to the Father except through Me.” — John 14:6
The Bible teaches that salvation is found only in Jesus Christ.
2. Said Atheists Can Go to Heaven
What he said: In 2013, he suggested that even atheists can be saved if they “do good.”
Why it’s unbiblical:
“Without faith it is impossible to please God.” — Hebrews 11:6
“Whoever does not believe stands condemned already.” — John 3:18
Good works cannot save apart from faith in Christ.
3. Downplaying Sin and Judgment
What he did: Often spoke of hell figuratively or suggested it may not exist as traditionally taught.
Why it’s unbiblical:
Jesus spoke of hell repeatedly — “Where their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.” — Mark 9:48
4. Encouraged Veneration of Mary and the Saints
What he promotes: Continued Catholic doctrines of praying to Mary and saints, declaring Marian dogmas like “Mary as co-redemptrix” or “mediatrix.”
Why it’s unbiblical:
“For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus.” — 1 Timothy 2:5
The Bible never teaches prayer to the dead or elevates Mary to this level.
5. Participated in Idolatrous Events (e.g., Pachamama statue worship)
What happened: In 2019, at the Vatican’s Amazon Synod, indigenous idols (like Pachamama, a fertility goddess) were venerated in Catholic events.
Why it’s unbiblical:
“You shall have no other gods before Me.” — Exodus 20:3
“Flee from idolatry.” — 1 Corinthians 10:14
6. Opened Doors to LGBTQ+ Acceptance
What he did: While not officially changing Church doctrine, he made many public statements that appeared to affirm same-sex civil unions and downplayed the sin of homosexuality.
Why it’s unbiblical:
“Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral… nor homosexuals… will inherit the kingdom of God.” — 1 Corinthians 6:9–10
True love speaks truth, even when it's hard.
*Disclaimer:
This is not a personal attack against the LGBTQ+ community. I have friends and loved ones who identify as gay, and I hold deep respect for their humanity and dignity. This point is strictly a Biblical comparison between the teachings of a religious leader—who claims to speak for God—and the clear teachings found in the Word of God. My intention is not to condemn individuals, but to test doctrines and actions against the truth of Scripture, which applies to all of us. Only Jesus Christ is the true Mediator and standard for righteousness.*
“Let God be true and every man a liar.” — Romans 3:4
7. Accepted Titles and Honors Jesus Never Took
What he is called: "Holy Father," "Vicar of Christ," and “Supreme Pontiff.”
Why it’s unbiblical:
Jesus said, “Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven.” — Matthew 23:9
Christ alone is Head of the Church — Colossians 1:18
Final Thought:
While it’s not our role to judge a man’s heart, we are called to test the spirits (1 John 4:1) and to expose false teaching (Ephesians 5:11). If Pope Francis led millions away from Biblical truth, then it’s fair to see his role as potentially fulfilling the warnings of false prophets and deception in the last days.
“Many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many.” — Matthew 24:5
“For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ.” — 2 Corinthians 11:13
