Final Answer:
The Roman Catholic Church had absorbed the doctrine of salvation through faith and works and affirmed the authority of both the Bible and tradition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The doctrine of salvation within the Roman Catholic Church involved a synthesis of faith and works. While emphasizing the importance of faith, the Church also asserted that salvation required the performance of good works. This stance distinguished Catholic teachings from the Protestant emphasis on justification by faith alone. The Catholic Church's position was formalized during the Council of Trent in response to the challenges posed by the Protestant Reformation.
Additionally, the Roman Catholic Church acknowledged the authority of both the Bible and tradition. Unlike Protestantism, which prioritized "sola scriptura" (Scripture alone), Catholic doctrine maintained that both the written Scriptures and the traditions passed down from the apostles held authoritative weight. This dual authority was seen as a safeguard against misinterpretation and contributed to the Church's continuity and stability over centuries.
The absorption of these doctrines reflected the complex theological landscape of the time, marked by the need for the Catholic Church to respond to the theological challenges posed by the Reformation. The synthesis of faith and works, along with the dual authority of the Bible and tradition, became defining features of Catholic theology.