In this episode of Fire Branded, TJ Haines lays out several simple red flags that expose bad theology and unreliable theological voices—signs anyone can recognize without a theology degree. From treating the Magisterium as optional, to undermining ecumenical councils, to cherry-picking old sources against the living Church, these patterns appear again and again in today’s Catholic debates.
HEADS UP: There’s a Post-Show Notes linked below
Drawing on recent clashes with influential voices on social media, TJ explains how these tactics work, why they’re persuasive, and how Catholics can spot them quickly before being misled. If you’ve ever wondered how to separate solid Catholic teaching from confident-sounding error, this episode gives you a practical checklist to do exactly that.
LINK - Promised in the Episode
Post Show #42 - Red Flags of Bad Theology
During the episode I mentioned that ordinary Catholics can often recognize bad theology just by watching for certain patterns and clues. You don’t need a theology degree to notice when something is off.
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CHAPTERS
00:00Tips for Spotting Bad Theology Online (and elsewhere)
04:321. Treats the Magisterium as optional
09:032. Diminishes a Valid Council
13:53Cherry Picking Old Sources
17:274. Conspiracy Theory
19:535. Relies on Catholic Personalities
