TOPIC TIMESTAMPS 🙏🏻 0:02 good works vs. accepting Christ in your heart 1:48 Orthodox view of Martin Luther 2:53 validity of sacraments outside Church 6:04 sins restricting from communion 10:07 speaking in tongues 13:15 Mary’s role as Mother of God 14:58 Catholic catechetical description of Mary 16:23 Jesus Prayer and hell 20:41 veneration of icons 22:35 where are the souls of the dead before the judgment? 23:57 Book of Enoch 24:25 praying with other denominations 26:47 sound bowls and frequency healing 27:34 how to handle modern issues that ancient saints didn’t have to deal with (like AI) 30:30 favorite story from lives of the saints 🤍☦️🤍
I was born into the greek orthodox faith. I am in my 60’s and have learned more about my faith through listening to this priest and Fr josiah trenham than any others in the past. I think todays priests are better educated to explain our faith but also we speak the same language. Although i can read and speak greek, j struggle with the greek bible. God Bless you father. 🙏
I really need to talk to an orthodox priest one on one for hours because boy do I have questions about my faith in Jesus. I want to trust in Him more and more each day because I know for a fact He is real.
I think about the same thing, I'm a rare stone collector in Ontario, Canada, I've found many engraved quartz crystals and stones with images and inscriptions of Pater, Jesus, David, the Alpha Omega LOGOS, it was a Company of Priests and prophets, they taught people how to fish and hunt and survive in North America, which I believe was "the wilderness". It's almost as though the bible was a Company contract between God and King David, follow the commandments and you get to keep your land. It was technically a Fur trading Art trading system. Money is the root of all evil. Yet, they had to "pay the devil his dues" and hide their secrets on the stones from Rome or they would've been persecuted. The LOGOS was a company logo, and from that logo you can extract every language, meaning it's the UNI-VERSE, ONE LANGUAGE. I'll try to describe the logos, it's an AW in large letters and the Jesus fish' head is the triangle of the A. So hard to explain, it's on my channel
In your patience possess ye your soul. He's got very heinous evil to tend in the long cue. He's not a babysitter to a mature being. The weak come first so they might be led to the light. God asked "Where are you" in the garden. If he'd been babysitting Adam then the snake event couldn't have occurred. The giving spirit requires of you to wait in want. This is a tenet of Pray Without Ceasing. "Believing", for those who are fledgling Knowers.
You need to pray and call up some parishes within driving distance. God will help you find a priest to talk to. There are loads of great online Orthodox resources, but if you really want to know you have to actually take the first steps. May God remember you in His kingdom!
I've been an Inquirer for a few months now, and I have found the best thing to do is to find a church near you and just attend. The priest in my short experience is more than pleased to set time aside to speak to you personally. Idk if it's common but he invites me to catechism on tuesday where all the inquirers and catechumens have about three hours to ask questions.
Father, bless! I cannot thank you enough for your time explaining different aspects of Orthodoxy to all of us. It is such a great resource! May God give you strength and discernment 🙏🏻☦️
I like to put Matthew 25:31-46 into account when it comes to works, which states: *When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.* *"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’* *"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothing you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’* *"The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine you did for me.’* *"Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’* *"They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’* *"He will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’* *Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.* It shows that giving and serving others is very important for spiritual life.
Almsgiving has always been an extremely important part of Orthodoxy, but unless the condition of your heart reflects the Love of Christ, then there's absolutely no benefit from giving alms. Another way of looking at it is 'Don't give alms because God told you it's good to give alms, give alms because your brother feels awful and you want to help him get back on his feet'. We acquire Grace through living the commandments and letting the commandments gradually soften our hearts, and that Grace obtained through living the commandments to the best we can manage is what will grant us salvation.
I went to Fr. Basils funeral. I didn't know him, he stepped down very shortly before I joined the church. Several parishioners were heartbroken by his repose, and spoke very fondly of him.
Thank you so much for making these videos! They have been invaluable to me. I have a bit of a checkered past with Christianity but have always yearned for Christ whether I knew it or not. I was initially raised to be agnostic, but after my parents divorced and my father remarried to a woman who was a major figure at the local First United Methodist church, I was made to convert and was baptized alongside my sister and father. My experiences there were unfortunately very negative, and my stepmother abused me at home. I was left with a very negative opinion of Christians as a result, and I grew into a reactionary atheist as a teenager. Later, I would grow more interested in the occult, thinking of myself as an “armchair magician” in my early twenties. I turn thirty next year, and having spent the last couple of years reappraising the Bible and learning about Orthodoxy I now realize that I am and have always been a Christian. I know for a fact that too many other men my age have been down a similar path to my own. I truly can’t thank the people behind this channel enough for putting these videos in front of our faces!
Really awesome video. It addresses so many questions my friends and family have been asking me as I inquire further into Orthodoxy. The “salvation by works” thing is such a stumbling block for those that I know. Thanks again Fr. Paul and this channel for your continued encouragement
2:30 funny he mentioned this... Luther actually met/exchanged letters (can't recall which) with Orthodox officials. He didn't like what they believed though, and I think expected them to have come to his own conclusions
Patriarch Jeremiah exchanged correspondence with Luther's disciple but cut it off once it was clear that the Reformation wasn't actually what they said it was.
@@aw7248 Obviously Luther was more interested in finding an easier way, not the right path....I mean he was a fat man sleeping with nuns, forcing women into marriages and mingling into the political scene...His life was more Mohamed-like then Christ-like by far...
I live in Utah next Sunday I’m probably gonna come to Devine liturgy I’ve been going to a Protestant church recently only because it’s close to home but I think I’m just gonna get over myself and take the 45 min drive over there I know it will be the right move in the long run
I’ve been watching several videos on Catholics, orthodox, Jehovah witnesses and Mormons. It’s amazing what people have added in between the lines of thoughts found in scripture. To have such firm stances on things not found in the Bible are mind blowing to me. Can’t some things of God remain a mystery?
Fr. Paul, I love listening to you and I learn a lot from your wisdom. Please forgive me but being an Oriental Orthodox I struggle with the stance of the Eastern Orthodox idea of how someone's soul moving from hades to paradise because of someone praying for them. That doesn't sound too different to purgatory in Catholicism. If that was possible why was the rich calling out to Lazarus asking him to wet his tongue and then he was told that there is no way this could happen. If we are given that chance, why would we struggle in this life, if we can rely on the prayers of others to change our destination? I would really like to get more understanding around this because I listened to your catechism lectures and they were amazing, but I struggled with this point. Please pray for me.
“John said to Him, “Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in Your name, and we tried to stop him because he wasn’t following us.” “Don’t stop him,” said Jesus, “because there is no one who will perform a miracle in My name who can soon afterward speak evil of Me. And whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because of My name, since you belong to the Messiah - I assure you: He will never lose his reward.” Mark 9:38-39, 41 HCSB
Bless you father. Could you answer a sincere but probably unusual question? As a Traditional Roman Catholic (pre-Vatican II) I've been studying Orthodoxy for many years and am finally convinced that the Orthodox Church is the true church. Years ago I visited an Orthodox church but couldn't decide. When I told the priest I was Catholic he said "same thing." The deacon, however, told me there is no grace in the Catholic sacraments. He said to take plenty of time to keep looking into it before deciding. Maybe I took too much time because I'm now in my 70s and am gradually losing eyesight and hearing (but still manageable). I can walk but cannot stand for long periods. May sound odd, but am I too old to convert? Not too old to believe or understand but to endure the rigors required (fasting, standing, etc.). This was a Russian Orthodox church and my ability to learn a new language (currently know English plus a little Latin and Italian) has diminished. The people there are friendly and inviting to all so that part would not be a problem. Age is certainly catching up with me but if not now when? I'd appreciate any comments you or others could offer. Thank you.
I am not the priest, but I can tell you God will not turn you down no matter the age. You don’t need to be an expert in Russian to follow the Lord. Bless you bro! ❤️✝️
I have ASD, specifically my symptoms align with what was previously known as Asperger's. I'm still able to lead a normal life independently, but because of my ASD, it can be hard for me to feel empathy, and I feel like it's hurting my relationship with not just my family and loved ones, but with Christ as well. Because although I understand that my sins hurt Christ and everyone around me, its still hard for me to fully comprehend the weight of my actions. Even when i imagine myself "in their shoes" so to speak. Is there any advice that can be given for me? Thank you and God bless☦️❤️
Hi [i didn't watch the video yet] If you became Orthodox in a catholic or protestant family can you still celebrate pasca or Christmas with them? You know the Orthodox have the old calendar and all it's not the same but it's would be kinda sad to not rejoice with family
Hi,as a convert I face this “problem” myself at the moment. This is always a question you ask your priest about.If celebrating these feasts with your family means meeting relatives and for example eating together, then of course you can still do this.But we should still recognise that this feast(on that date at least) is not your feast.
Grace is the Offer, from The Father! Faith is the acceptance of the Offer. And good works are our continual affirmation of our Faith, Intention, and Belief! And The Holy Spirit of The Father is our Counselor, Helper, and Teacher.
One thing I really wanted to know is the orthodox perspective on demonic contracts. Can you inherit demonic contract or "curses" from generational sins (ex: from parents, grandparents etc)? (Hopefully this is where I'm supposed to submit a question for future Q&A).
What brings is salvation is belief in Jesus Christ alone. Grace allows us to return to Jesus when we fall short. Your works are an expression of the one who sits in the "throne of your heart". Works alone will have you swimming in the lake of fire.
I want to ask Father who come he become a priest !? Who was the person, or how come he follow this road of orthodoxy !? Now has a different perspective of American culture!? Thanks so much in advance
I have a question, I grew up Lutheran and I struggle with prayer. I understand the suggestions on 'how' to pray like do it privately or things like the Jesus Prayer or the Lord's Prayer, but what do I say or do when the words are mine and I need help, guidance, or are practicing gratitude? I struggle to feel like I'm not making wishes that are ultimately beyond my will.
Thankyou for this video. Salvation comes by grace, through faithful obedience to God, but it must be accompanied by the forgiveness of sin which can only come from God the Father. Without forgiveness of sin from the Father, the cross is of no value to the individual and, by extension, the Resurrection void of meaning in the person's life. One death to sin, one resurrection in Christ.
I've labelled myself as a Christian very arbitrarily for most of my life because I grew up in a Christian family and went to a Christian school until I was a freshman in high school. I've attended many different Protestant churches under several different denominations and always felt something was missing that I still cannot determine. Recently I've felt drawn towards the Orthodox church but I'm unsure if it's authentic or a product of my own disillusionment. How can I tell I'm gravitating towards the Orthodox Church for the right reasons?
I’m Catholic. I know I am saved by Jesus Good works are an expression of my love and appreciation for what He has done for me, a sinner. I am not sure why people are confused and constantly assume I am working to save myself or that I am making up for something. None of that is true.
That’s great you think like that because, anyone who suggests that works are needed for salvation, is implying that Jesus’ sacrifice was insufficient 😉
Fr, the idea that the Holy Spirit is the spouse of the Theotokos is related to the idea that the Holy Spirit descended upon her womb to form Jesus. St Joseph is the foster father of Jesus.
As growing up Catholic I have never heard Mary being known as the bride of the Holy Spirit. The church is the bride. So, I think that is misstated by someone confused on Catholic belief. Unless I am wrong, but I’ve studied Catholicism for practically all of my life so im unsure where that statement comes from.
So many great things, that I must suggest something... I may be blamed, but priest's wife is roumanian, and she can help for the translations... Many roumanians would read the subscribes. Please, father, pray for us. 🙏🇷🇴
Didn't the Nicea I say that all Baptisms using the Trinitarian formula are valid? Just that those outside of Orthodoxy are not in union with the Mother Church
Ask your priest if you can, don’t make it a habit to look online for an answer. But this is my understanding. There are a couple of stories of something like that happening from the saints to show that all things are possible with God and to encourage our prayers for the departed but not that it is a regular thing or a thing we can expect. Just that God may use our prayers in that way.
Although i doubt that you are saying Good Works are useless, it does come across that way. You need Good works and Grace to be saved right? For example if i accept Jesus died for my sins but i continue to sin without trying to get better, will i still be saved?
There is apparent contradiction between Saint Paul and Apostle James, brother of Jesus. Saint Paul said that justification comes “by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law” (Galatians 2:16), while James stated: But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?... And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness.... Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. (James 2:20-21, 23-24) It appeared that priest Truebenbach is adherent of Pauline Christianity. Leo Tolstoy wrote : "The Gospels say that people are equal, but Paul divides people into slaves and masters; Jesus abolishes taxes, Paul legitimizes them; where Christ has forgiveness, Paul has a curse. Paul's religion is based on the fear of punishment, a person must adhere to good intentions only in order to avoid retribution and receive a reward after death. The apostle justifies violence, executions, slavery"
I’m a Catholic all my life. Born in Ireland. I love these videos. My view is this… WE are all Christians & we all would have been invited to pray with Christ at the Garden of Gethsemane or the Mount of beatitudes. & to pray for Jesus at the foot of the cross. Do I believe he’d ask what form of Christianity we are? No. He’d know His people. & He knows his people! If we are truly his, we should ALL pray together. We should not be separated by what we believe in other ways because truly only God knows the truth. By not praying together, do we really think that’s Christ’s wish? That the people who love him more than anything in this world would be separated in prayer because of their own will & ‘All knowing’ of all things God? When at the core of all of this, they cannot kneel together hand in hand in silence and pray to Christ in unity. Ok, it is as simple as this, do we really truly think Jesus Christ would have said to his people they can join him and their sisters and brothers in prayer only if they believe this or that, or that bread is flat or leavened? It wouldn’t matter to Jesus if the world was round or flat or square or shapeless. We absolutely should ALL be praying together AND we shouldn’t be saying a gay isn’t invited to the sermon on the Mount. Who are we to say who is and isn’t allowed to Christ’s sermon?? With all my heart I believe Jesus would invite all who love and believe and follow him to come to prayer. If we’re called to be his followers, we should pray in unity. Without a unified Christianity, how can we expect God to bless us with a unified world? Would He consider it a sin that we continuously build walls between each other like we’re not all Christ’s family? Do we see only black and white in each other & therefore never recognize the colors of Jesus that we’re all blessed with as Christians?
"Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. For I have come to ‘set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law’; and ‘a man’s enemies will be those of his own household - Jesus Christ in Matthew 10:34-36
This whole idea of unity despite huge difference in beliefs (they matter) is a lie of the adversary to weaken the Body of Christ (not invisible but visible, the Church). Groups have come off of the Church such as the Assyrian church, Orientals, Rome, and others because they fell away from the one Faith. They cut themselves off. Christ didn't tell the Sadducees that their non-belief in the Resurrection was okay, nor the Samaritan beliefs which included pagan beliefs, or the Greeks' many so called gods. Instead He called them all to repentance including the Pharisees, to believe in Him and what He taught, not other things that diverged from it. This is why the council of Acts 15 was convened, why the Ecumenical Councils happened, why other councils happened..to keep the Faith of Christ undefiled. If we give in to your idea, we lose the Holy Orthodox Faith once given us by the Apostles from Christ. We can't do that. It is either The Way or the way of world? The Way is what our people have d1ed for. Leavened (artos) vs. Unleavened (azymos) bread is important. Artos was used at the Mystical Supper. Also the yeast is of the Risen Christ and as Christ is the Living Bread from on high, the bread which becomes His pure Body must reflect that, being living bread. Azymos (wafers) is dead bread, not Risen, no life in it. It is the bread of the Old Covenant which was a shadow for the New and Everlasting Covenant in Christ. It absolutely matters.
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ 23 Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’" (Matthew 7:21 to 7:23)
My struggle with the works thing us that you say that works don't save us, but then you say some things that sound to me like you are saying works do save us. Forgive me if I am misunderstanding, but it sounds like you are saying that good works are necessary to access the grace of God. So while grace saves us, we get grace by good works (which then makes it a sort of lesser grace, no?). And after describing what good works do for us, you follow that with, "This is salvation for the Orthodox." That is why I am confused with this sort of answer. It sounds like saying, "Not A... but also A."
On works: They are of their father the devil and the works of their father they will do; so good works are are the bright shadow, the good fallout, of the Good Shepherd, therefor are a result of Saved, not a means of Saved. The devil presumably never does truly good works - but only feigned good as a means to evil ends.
so doing good deeds serve nothing ? all The Lord taught us to do (good), what is it for then? a person who do evil but believes and has faith ( the demons believe also) is equal to a person who do only good and has faith? yes, ultimatly the Grace saves us, but is enough to have only faith?? hell ( what s its purpouse then?) is full of priests and monks, among others... they surely had faith but didn t do good on earth... even the criminals have faith.... and the commandaments of the Lord, what good are they if we have faith and do evil? didn t St Paul said that if one have faith to move mountains, and believes, and knows by heart al the scriptures but he doesn t have love, he has nothing ? isn t love the greatest best deed to do? the good samaritean? etc etc etc .... doesn t Lord Jesus explained us specifically how to be saved : if you did all these good deeds to the littlest of my brethern , you did it to Me. How then not to expect the Grace of God and be saved, doing good to The Lord Himself?
I am a member of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, and by my understanding, this is what we are taught about why good works are necessary for our salvation. We were all sinners; it is not only the Gentiles but also the Jews who were sinners. The whole world was guilty of sin. The Jews called the Gentiles sinners, but they themselves were also sinners. Regarding this, Saint Paul says in Romans 3:9, “What shall we conclude then? Are we any better? Not at all! We have already made the charge that Jews and Gentiles alike are all under sin.” Therefore, both Gentiles and Jews are under sin. Hence, Saint Paul says, “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Therefore, everyone needs a savior. Romans 3:20 says, "Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law, we become conscious of our sin." By doing what we are told not to do, we come to know sin through the law. Therefore, no one can be justified before God by fulfilling the law, as even the Jews who received the law could not do so. What is better? Verse 21 states, "But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify." God revealed His righteousness apart from the law. How was it revealed? It was for all who believe, thus everyone, both circumcised and uncircumcised, approached God by faith. The dividing wall of hostility between Gentiles and Jews was broken. If a person could be justified by themselves, Christ’s death would not be necessary. Saint Paul says in Galatians 2:21, "I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!" If a person could justify themselves, why did Christ come? Christ came because a person could not justify themselves. The reason is that we are all descendants of Adam, and in the Old Covenant, everyone was a sinner, and everyone’s holiness was relative. Therefore, God sent His Son. Therefore, if righteousness is obtained through faith in Christ, what is the role of works? A person approaches God through faith and then joins the church. As Saint Luke mentions in Acts 2:47, “And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” The church (the assembly of the apostles) is the body of Christ. To be part of Christ’s body, no work is required. Without any work, one becomes part of Christ’s body. Therefore, we are all saved without works. Why would works be needed? Previously, when we were committing sins, what was the basis of our condemnation? It was because we were descendants of Adam and carried his sinful nature. But now, in Christ Jesus, we are a new creation. Saint Paul says in Romans 6:3, “Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?” So, we were baptized to be united with Christ’s death. Therefore, we have died with Him. As it says in verse 6, “For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin-because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.” Thus, our old self is gone; we have died and risen anew. How did we rise? In a new life, we have risen as Christians. Romans 6:4 says, “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” Therefore, what does it mean to be buried with Him? It means to walk in newness of life. Walking in newness of life requires presenting our members as instruments of righteousness which is part of good works. After we become Christians by faith and baptism, there is no verse in the Bible that states works are not mandatory because salvation is a process, and we have to keep our salvation. Romans 6:13 states, “Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness.” Walking in newness of life means offering our members as instruments of righteousness. This is our duty, and it is the purpose for which we were created. Ephesians 2:8-10 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith-and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Therefore, we are created to do good works. Thus, doing good works is mandatory. If we don’t work? Saint Paul says to the Ephesians in Ephesians 5:5, “For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person-such a person is an idolater-has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.” What does he tell the Christians created to do good works? If you live like those who do such things, you have no inheritance in the kingdom of God. He continues, “Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient.” - Ephesians 5:6 There are two types of children: those who live for the purpose they were created for, doing good works, and the disobedient children. Therefore, we should live for the purpose we were created for. What does that mean? It means fulfilling salvation. Saint Paul in Philippians 2:12 says, “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed-not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence-continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” - Philippians 2:12 To work out salvation means to walk in the newness of life. Ephesians 5:8-11 says, “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” Above, Saint Paul tells us to bear fruit, and it is not only from himself but also from our Lord Jesus who said: John 15:1-2, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” If one is in Christ but does not bear fruit, they will be cut off. Therefore, we must bear fruit. This fruit is good works because we are created in Christ Jesus to do good works. Galatians 6:7-9 says, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Therefore, let us not become weary in doing good works. "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad." - 2 Corinthians 5:10 If salvation is by faith alone and does not require works, then why are works questioned on the Day of Judgment? Saint Paul received this teaching from Christ himself: “Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out-those who have done what is good will rise to live, and those who have done what is evil will rise to be condemned.” - John 5:28-29 In conclusion, good works are necessary for our salvation because they are the evidence of our faith and the fruits of our new life in Christ. While we are saved by grace through faith, our continued salvation requires us to live out that faith through good works. Faith without works is dead and that we must continually work out our salvation with fear and trembling.
@@birukasratgebeyehu5214 My my , you put the whole Bible in there! Enough for you to say, and you said it: Ephesians 5:5. Case closed! Beautiful! and thank you !
You miss understanding orthodox is the meaning that we believe in power of church, Holy Father, Jesus Christ, Holly Mary .. this is orthodox and is addressed to people and not to man to follow the real faith in God .
@@EurodanceBlog First, thank you for your response. Scripture does not need a filter or a special group of people to be “more qualified” than others to know its meaning. There are no private interpretations within scripture. Jesus told the Sudducees the greatest commandment: Mat 22:37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. Anything or anyone that is put ahead of this commandment is idolatry.
@@ElonTrump19You're already making yourself an authority. Now then, how much do you think a 21th century toddler would understand of Shakespeare's language from the 16th century, if this toddler read all by himself? If we now take a collection of texts, from vastly different timeframes and cultural contexts spanning over thousands of years, how much do you think this toddler would then understand? This is exactly why Christ founded the Church through the Apostles as the Guardian of His Truth. In fact this Church is what gave you the canon of the New Testament as we have it now. There was a whole three centuries between Christ and the composition and confirmation of the New Testament canon by the Church Fathers. How do you think Sola Scriptura worked back then, if it were the case? The Bible didn't just drop down from Heaven. As for Matthew 22:37, that is exactly what the Church teaches, except one doesn't go by single verses, but the entire context it is in. In the Bible that is usually the book or at the very least the chapter. One could take any part of the Old or New Testament and quote it out of context to have the same effect. As for a special group of people, I think this is a misunderstanding of roles. We are all equal as images of God, but that doesn't mean that we all have the same skills or gifts and callings from God. Hence we have clergy and monastics and laymen all important organs of the Body of Christ. It is true that one being a clergyman does not make one the perfect interpretor of Scripture, but it sure makes for a better one than any modern day person. Nonetheless, it has been the Faith of the Fathers of the Church, that anyone that becomes sanctified through prayer sees Holy Scripture ever clearer, however these individuals do not reach this by themselves without the rest of the Church and the Sacraments/Mysteries, that She has been given the power to wield. I hope this clears some things, God be with you! ☦️❤️🔥
You misunderstand what scripture is saying - there is no private interpretation of Scriptire of special revelation because as Paul said in Timothy, the church is the pillar and foundation of truth, which means the protestant private interpretations are false.
Anyone saying that their denomination is The true one missed the point. Saying that it is the closest to truth might be fair, but saying it is The one simply means thr denomination has replaced Gods Kingdom in your heart.
Wow, this is the first orthodox video I've watched on my journey to learning about orthodoxy that is outright NOT biblical. Too bad. It all sounds so good, but let's stick to scripture.
@user-wo9lf5ll9e if God didn't explain fundamental things, when we make up our own, how do we know we're still following Christ? His word is consistent that we die once and face judgment. There's no "praying someone out of hell."
@@Hannah-xr4ir From the very beginning, Christians prayed for the dead. The belief that our prayers aid the departed was a practice for the early believers. Nobody here has claimed that we can “pray someone out of hell” though.
Orthodox separated from the church when they fell out of communion with Peter. [18] And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the powers of death shall not prevail against it. [19] I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. "
He was the rock because he was the first one to know the truth of Jesus. The chosen disciples were equal. Roman Catholics made up that nonsense you spewed when the Bishop of Rome went mad with power 1000years ago and decided to lead people away from the True Church
@silverecho1201 that's the nonsense. The authority of the Bishop of Rome is present in the early church, Pope Victor, Pope Clement, Pope Leo the Great, and the letter of Pope Agatho where the east totally agreed on papal primacy and infallibility. Return to the church and the barque of St Peter.
@@Motomack1042 Lord have mercy on you brother. According to Vatican II if you don't know the papist church is the true church you can receive salvation still. In the 1960s the ecumenical patriarch athenagoras and the pope at the time removed the 1054 anathemas on each other. So according to your own pope and teachings orthodoxy is in communion with Rome already. Obviously true orthodox don't accept that because it was not done with the acceptance of all the bishops just as Rome went on its own with infallibility without all the bishops agreeing. Something to think about.
@@Motomack1042 0 proof of it. And that letter has been refuted time and time again. Look up Jay Dyer talking about it and he easily refuted it in 5 minutes with evidence it doesn't mean what you think and why.
Question: In the next life, will God heal the wounds and scars of a virgin who was sexually violated? Will God heal the trauma that has been since stored in her body? Will God give her a brand new transfigured body so its as if the violation never took place in her? Thank you
TOPIC TIMESTAMPS 🙏🏻
0:02 good works vs. accepting Christ in your heart
1:48 Orthodox view of Martin Luther
2:53 validity of sacraments outside Church
6:04 sins restricting from communion
10:07 speaking in tongues
13:15 Mary’s role as Mother of God
14:58 Catholic catechetical description of Mary
16:23 Jesus Prayer and hell
20:41 veneration of icons
22:35 where are the souls of the dead before the judgment?
23:57 Book of Enoch
24:25 praying with other denominations
26:47 sound bowls and frequency healing
27:34 how to handle modern issues that ancient saints didn’t have to deal with (like AI)
30:30 favorite story from lives of the saints
🤍☦️🤍
Thank you!
I was born into the greek orthodox faith. I am in my 60’s and have learned more about my faith through listening to this priest and Fr josiah trenham than any others in the past. I think todays priests are better educated to explain our faith but also we speak the same language. Although i can read and speak greek, j struggle with the greek bible. God Bless you father. 🙏
“Babe wake up, Roots of Orthodoxy just posted a hour ago”
Fr. Paul is life changing.
He changed mine.
And mine.
I just watched a video about him
"don't you know AI is just a box of demons spitting out logismoi?"-Fr. Seraphim Rose, probably
😂
😂😂😂
I really need to talk to an orthodox priest one on one for hours because boy do I have questions about my faith in Jesus. I want to trust in Him more and more each day because I know for a fact He is real.
I think about the same thing, I'm a rare stone collector in Ontario, Canada, I've found many engraved quartz crystals and stones with images and inscriptions of Pater, Jesus, David, the Alpha Omega LOGOS, it was a Company of Priests and prophets, they taught people how to fish and hunt and survive in North America, which I believe was "the wilderness". It's almost as though the bible was a Company contract between God and King David, follow the commandments and you get to keep your land. It was technically a Fur trading Art trading system. Money is the root of all evil. Yet, they had to "pay the devil his dues" and hide their secrets on the stones from Rome or they would've been persecuted. The LOGOS was a company logo, and from that logo you can extract every language, meaning it's the UNI-VERSE, ONE LANGUAGE. I'll try to describe the logos, it's an AW in large letters and the Jesus fish' head is the triangle of the A. So hard to explain, it's on my channel
In your patience possess ye your soul. He's got very heinous evil to tend in the long cue. He's not a babysitter to a mature being. The weak come first so they might be led to the light. God asked "Where are you" in the garden. If he'd been babysitting Adam then the snake event couldn't have occurred. The giving spirit requires of you to wait in want. This is a tenet of Pray Without Ceasing. "Believing", for those who are fledgling Knowers.
if you have discord, I could show you a sever about Orthodoxy that can answer all your questions. I know because they answered all of mines
You need to pray and call up some parishes within driving distance. God will help you find a priest to talk to. There are loads of great online Orthodox resources, but if you really want to know you have to actually take the first steps. May God remember you in His kingdom!
I've been an Inquirer for a few months now, and I have found the best thing to do is to find a church near you and just attend. The priest in my short experience is more than pleased to set time aside to speak to you personally. Idk if it's common but he invites me to catechism on tuesday where all the inquirers and catechumens have about three hours to ask questions.
Father, bless! I cannot thank you enough for your time explaining different aspects of Orthodoxy to all of us. It is such a great resource! May God give you strength and discernment 🙏🏻☦️
I like to put Matthew 25:31-46 into account when it comes to works, which states:
*When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.*
*"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’*
*"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothing you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’*
*"The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine you did for me.’*
*"Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’*
*"They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’*
*"He will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’*
*Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.*
It shows that giving and serving others is very important for spiritual life.
Almsgiving has always been an extremely important part of Orthodoxy, but unless the condition of your heart reflects the Love of Christ, then there's absolutely no benefit from giving alms.
Another way of looking at it is 'Don't give alms because God told you it's good to give alms, give alms because your brother feels awful and you want to help him get back on his feet'.
We acquire Grace through living the commandments and letting the commandments gradually soften our hearts, and that Grace obtained through living the commandments to the best we can manage is what will grant us salvation.
@@benkai343434yes. Intention is everything
I went to Fr. Basils funeral. I didn't know him, he stepped down very shortly before I joined the church. Several parishioners were heartbroken by his repose, and spoke very fondly of him.
Thank you so much for making these videos! They have been invaluable to me.
I have a bit of a checkered past with Christianity but have always yearned for Christ whether I knew it or not. I was initially raised to be agnostic, but after my parents divorced and my father remarried to a woman who was a major figure at the local First United Methodist church, I was made to convert and was baptized alongside my sister and father.
My experiences there were unfortunately very negative, and my stepmother abused me at home. I was left with a very negative opinion of Christians as a result, and I grew into a reactionary atheist as a teenager. Later, I would grow more interested in the occult, thinking of myself as an “armchair magician” in my early twenties.
I turn thirty next year, and having spent the last couple of years reappraising the Bible and learning about Orthodoxy I now realize that I am and have always been a Christian.
I know for a fact that too many other men my age have been down a similar path to my own.
I truly can’t thank the people behind this channel enough for putting these videos in front of our faces!
Very insightful comments from Fr. Paul Truenbach🙏🏻
Please pray for us all
Aww our sweet Saint Paisios ❤ Much love from Orthodox Greece 🇬🇷 May the Lord Jesus Christ of Nazareth bless you all ❤❤🎉
❤✝ CHRIST IS RISEN ✝❤
❤💪🙏✝ GOD BE WITH US AGAINST EVIL AND TEMPTATIONS ✝🙏⛪🕊
Thank you, Father, this channel is great! And thanks for the story of St. Nicholas Velimirovic. God bless from Orthodox Serbia. ❤☦️
So many good questions in this one! And so wonderfully answered by Father Paul! God Bless
Really awesome video. It addresses so many questions my friends and family have been asking me as I inquire further into Orthodoxy. The “salvation by works” thing is such a stumbling block for those that I know. Thanks again Fr. Paul and this channel for your continued encouragement
I’m so glad people have my questions popping up in their head :)
thank you and God bless Roots of Orthodoxy for making so many videos with Fr. Paul 🙏🏻
I love Jesus Christ, I love the Orthodox Church, and dammit I love Father Paul! Glory be ☦️💖
I love all these questions and the way fr. answered them. Glory to God!
Thank u Father.
God bless
Greetings from Serbia
I thoroughly enjoy and look for forward to these videos. Thank you for all that you do!
Love Fr. Paul's content!
Thank you, Father, for your timely answers!
So many amazing, inspiring stories! Thank you to this channel and Fr. Paul. ❤
Always appreciate these Q&A sessions
These videos are excellent.
7:34 This is beautiful description! ❤☦️
I love the Book of Enoch and this whole video has been great. Thank you for your work!
This was amazing, thank you.
Wow! The first 2 minutes are jaw dropping! I'm going to listen to the rest now!
Thank you for this. Lord have mercy on me
That last story! Wow! ♥️
Yes! Vladika Nikolai Velimirovich was amazing.
2:30 funny he mentioned this... Luther actually met/exchanged letters (can't recall which) with Orthodox officials. He didn't like what they believed though, and I think expected them to have come to his own conclusions
Pride and lack of humility of one person and here we are…
Patriarch Jeremiah exchanged correspondence with Luther's disciple but cut it off once it was clear that the Reformation wasn't actually what they said it was.
It appears he was more interested in being anti-Catholic than understanding the original roots of Christianity which did not need reformation.
@@aw7248 Obviously Luther was more interested in finding an easier way, not the right path....I mean he was a fat man sleeping with nuns, forcing women into marriages and mingling into the political scene...His life was more Mohamed-like then Christ-like by far...
Incredible answers
I live in Utah next Sunday I’m probably gonna come to Devine liturgy I’ve been going to a Protestant church recently only because it’s close to home but I think I’m just gonna get over myself and take the 45 min drive over there I know it will be the right move in the long run
Father bless us with this water!!
I’ve been watching several videos on Catholics, orthodox, Jehovah witnesses and Mormons. It’s amazing what people have added in between the lines of thoughts found in scripture. To have such firm stances on things not found in the Bible are mind blowing to me. Can’t some things of God remain a mystery?
Show me your Saint Paisios
Thank you Father
Fr. Paul, I love listening to you and I learn a lot from your wisdom. Please forgive me but being an Oriental Orthodox I struggle with the stance of the Eastern Orthodox idea of how someone's soul moving from hades to paradise because of someone praying for them. That doesn't sound too different to purgatory in Catholicism. If that was possible why was the rich calling out to Lazarus asking him to wet his tongue and then he was told that there is no way this could happen. If we are given that chance, why would we struggle in this life, if we can rely on the prayers of others to change our destination? I would really like to get more understanding around this because I listened to your catechism lectures and they were amazing, but I struggled with this point. Please pray for me.
“John said to Him, “Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in Your name, and we tried to stop him because he wasn’t following us.” “Don’t stop him,” said Jesus, “because there is no one who will perform a miracle in My name who can soon afterward speak evil of Me. And whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because of My name, since you belong to the Messiah - I assure you: He will never lose his reward.”
Mark 9:38-39, 41 HCSB
Thank you as always for your hard work! Would it be possible to post time stamps in the future?
Bless you father. Could you answer a sincere but probably unusual question?
As a Traditional Roman Catholic (pre-Vatican II) I've been studying Orthodoxy for many years and am finally convinced that the Orthodox Church is the true church. Years ago I visited an Orthodox church but couldn't decide. When I told the priest I was Catholic he said "same thing." The deacon, however, told me there is no grace in the Catholic sacraments. He said to take plenty of time to keep looking into it before deciding. Maybe I took too much time because I'm now in my 70s and am gradually losing eyesight and hearing (but still manageable). I can walk but cannot stand for long periods. May sound odd, but am I too old to convert? Not too old to believe or understand but to endure the rigors required (fasting, standing, etc.).
This was a Russian Orthodox church and my ability to learn a new language (currently know English plus a little Latin and Italian) has diminished. The people there are friendly and inviting to all so that part would not be a problem. Age is certainly catching up with me but if not now when?
I'd appreciate any comments you or others could offer. Thank you.
I am not the priest, but I can tell you God will not turn you down no matter the age. You don’t need to be an expert in Russian to follow the Lord. Bless you bro! ❤️✝️
Never too old to come home! Most Orthodox churches will have some way for people to sit if asked. I wish you the best in your journey!
I have ASD, specifically my symptoms align with what was previously known as Asperger's. I'm still able to lead a normal life independently, but because of my ASD, it can be hard for me to feel empathy, and I feel like it's hurting my relationship with not just my family and loved ones, but with Christ as well. Because although I understand that my sins hurt Christ and everyone around me, its still hard for me to fully comprehend the weight of my actions. Even when i imagine myself "in their shoes" so to speak. Is there any advice that can be given for me? Thank you and God bless☦️❤️
Hi [i didn't watch the video yet] If you became Orthodox in a catholic or protestant family can you still celebrate pasca or Christmas with them? You know the Orthodox have the old calendar and all it's not the same but it's would be kinda sad to not rejoice with family
Hi,as a convert I face this “problem” myself at the moment. This is always a question you ask your priest about.If celebrating these feasts with your family means meeting relatives and for example eating together, then of course you can still do this.But we should still recognise that this feast(on that date at least) is not your feast.
@@felixmuller7551 Yes absolutely thank you
That is a lovely story about the elder been raised higher and higher after death by prayer. I hope it is true.
Hi Fr. Paul, what is the orthodox view on “Christian” music, such as on the radio or worship music the protestant church performs? Thanks
God bless orthodoxy ❤
Grace is the Offer, from The Father!
Faith is the acceptance of the Offer.
And good works are our continual affirmation of our Faith, Intention, and Belief! And The Holy Spirit of The Father is our Counselor, Helper, and Teacher.
I like that story with the aspirin. It reminds me of Sirach 38:1-15.
23:30 is this the same as purgatory or not?
Nope. Orthodox may have some sense of post death final purification, but not purgatory as understood by Roman Catholics.
@@johnathanrhoades7751 thanks🙏
One thing I really wanted to know is the orthodox perspective on demonic contracts. Can you inherit demonic contract or "curses" from generational sins (ex: from parents, grandparents etc)?
(Hopefully this is where I'm supposed to submit a question for future Q&A).
Ezekiel 18:20 should answer your question.
What brings is salvation is belief in Jesus Christ alone. Grace allows us to return to Jesus when we fall short. Your works are an expression of the one who sits in the "throne of your heart". Works alone will have you swimming in the lake of fire.
26:28 What do you think about the ELCA, the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America, and their move toward paganism and hedonism.
I want to ask Father who come he become a priest !? Who was the person, or how come he follow this road of orthodoxy !? Now has a different perspective of American culture!? Thanks so much in advance
I have a question, I grew up Lutheran and I struggle with prayer. I understand the suggestions on 'how' to pray like do it privately or things like the Jesus Prayer or the Lord's Prayer, but what do I say or do when the words are mine and I need help, guidance, or are practicing gratitude? I struggle to feel like I'm not making wishes that are ultimately beyond my will.
Pray to learn how to pray. Learn by doing. Dumb answer I know
Get a prayer book
🔥🔥🔥
So good
Thankyou for this video. Salvation comes by grace, through faithful obedience to God, but it must be accompanied by the forgiveness of sin which can only come from God the Father. Without forgiveness of sin from the Father, the cross is of no value to the individual and, by extension, the Resurrection void of meaning in the person's life. One death to sin, one resurrection in Christ.
☦️☦️☦️
I've labelled myself as a Christian very arbitrarily for most of my life because I grew up in a Christian family and went to a Christian school until I was a freshman in high school. I've attended many different Protestant churches under several different denominations and always felt something was missing that I still cannot determine. Recently I've felt drawn towards the Orthodox church but I'm unsure if it's authentic or a product of my own disillusionment. How can I tell I'm gravitating towards the Orthodox Church for the right reasons?
Trust that the Holy Spirit is leading you.
go to an orthodox church , simply
Can anyone tell me: does Rock and Sand by Fr Trenham address the differences between western Augustinianism and the eastern disagreements with it?
I don’t remember that being a focal point, no. More focused on the reformation and the reformers than general east/west differences.
@@johnathanrhoades7751 thank you
I’m Catholic. I know I am saved by Jesus Good works are an expression of my love and appreciation for what He has done for me, a sinner. I am not sure why people are confused and constantly assume I am working to save myself or that I am making up for something.
None of that is true.
That’s great you think like that because, anyone who suggests that works are needed for salvation, is implying that Jesus’ sacrifice was insufficient 😉
Wow, very early. Posted 5 mins ago.
I'm a Roman Catholic and have never heard that the Holy Blessed Mother is the wife/bride of the Holy Sprit.
The heavenly language is Love
Please ask him where he got or did he make his prayer rope?
Wake up a new Father Paul Vid just dropped !!!
Fr, the idea that the Holy Spirit is the spouse of the Theotokos is related to the idea that the Holy Spirit descended upon her womb to form Jesus. St Joseph is the foster father of Jesus.
As growing up Catholic I have never heard Mary being known as the bride of the Holy Spirit. The church is the bride. So, I think that is misstated by someone confused on Catholic belief. Unless I am wrong, but I’ve studied Catholicism for practically all of my life so im unsure where that statement comes from.
So many great things, that I must suggest something... I may be blamed, but priest's wife is roumanian, and she can help for the translations... Many roumanians would read the subscribes. Please, father, pray for us. 🙏🇷🇴
Didn't the Nicea I say that all Baptisms using the Trinitarian formula are valid? Just that those outside of Orthodoxy are not in union with the Mother Church
No
New to orthodoxy. So if someone goes to he'll and we pray for them they go to heaven?
Ask your priest if you can, don’t make it a habit to look online for an answer.
But this is my understanding. There are a couple of stories of something like that happening from the saints to show that all things are possible with God and to encourage our prayers for the departed but not that it is a regular thing or a thing we can expect. Just that God may use our prayers in that way.
16:05 I think calling it a blasphemy is more correct
That seems to be the intention of such a question doesn't it?
21:48 Why do we need physical icons? Why can’t we just honor the character?
Because some of us are visual learners. The image helps us focus.
I wonder what he is thinking just as the interview starts. 0.00 seconds look at his expression.....
Their view of justification sounds like faith alone the way a lutheran would explain it.
Although i doubt that you are saying Good Works are useless, it does come across that way. You need Good works and Grace to be saved right? For example if i accept Jesus died for my sins but i continue to sin without trying to get better, will i still be saved?
Hi! I just wonder what Orthodox Church do you belong? Is that Moscow Patriarchate? Where actually your roots are from?
Do you have a rumble channel?
@@santiagowolf9535 no but should I make one?
@@RootsofOrthodoxyabsolutely. Can post stuff YT will not allow like on the p r y d e stuff
There is apparent contradiction between Saint Paul and Apostle James, brother of Jesus. Saint Paul said that justification comes “by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law” (Galatians 2:16), while James stated: But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?... And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness.... Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. (James 2:20-21, 23-24) It appeared that priest Truebenbach is adherent of Pauline Christianity. Leo Tolstoy wrote : "The Gospels say that people are equal, but Paul divides people into slaves and masters; Jesus abolishes taxes, Paul legitimizes them; where Christ has forgiveness, Paul has a curse. Paul's religion is based on the fear of punishment, a person must adhere to good intentions only in order to avoid retribution and receive a reward after death. The apostle justifies violence, executions, slavery"
I’m a Catholic all my life. Born in Ireland. I love these videos. My view is this… WE are all Christians & we all would have been invited to pray with Christ at the Garden of Gethsemane or the Mount of beatitudes. & to pray for Jesus at the foot of the cross. Do I believe he’d ask what form of Christianity we are? No. He’d know His people. & He knows his people! If we are truly his, we should ALL pray together. We should not be separated by what we believe in other ways because truly only God knows the truth. By not praying together, do we really think that’s Christ’s wish? That the people who love him more than anything in this world would be separated in prayer because of their own will & ‘All knowing’ of all things God? When at the core of all of this, they cannot kneel together hand in hand in silence and pray to Christ in unity. Ok, it is as simple as this, do we really truly think Jesus Christ would have said to his people they can join him and their sisters and brothers in prayer only if they believe this or that, or that bread is flat or leavened? It wouldn’t matter to Jesus if the world was round or flat or square or shapeless. We absolutely should ALL be praying together AND we shouldn’t be saying a gay isn’t invited to the sermon on the Mount. Who are we to say who is and isn’t allowed to Christ’s sermon?? With all my heart I believe Jesus would invite all who love and believe and follow him to come to prayer. If we’re called to be his followers, we should pray in unity. Without a unified Christianity, how can we expect God to bless us with a unified world? Would He consider it a sin that we continuously build walls between each other like we’re not all Christ’s family? Do we see only black and white in each other & therefore never recognize the colors of Jesus that we’re all blessed with as Christians?
"Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. For I have come to ‘set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law’; and ‘a man’s enemies will be those of his own household - Jesus Christ in Matthew 10:34-36
This whole idea of unity despite huge difference in beliefs (they matter) is a lie of the adversary to weaken the Body of Christ (not invisible but visible, the Church). Groups have come off of the Church such as the Assyrian church, Orientals, Rome, and others because they fell away from the one Faith. They cut themselves off.
Christ didn't tell the Sadducees that their non-belief in the Resurrection was okay, nor the Samaritan beliefs which included pagan beliefs, or the Greeks' many so called gods. Instead He called them all to repentance including the Pharisees, to believe in Him and what He taught, not other things that diverged from it.
This is why the council of Acts 15 was convened, why the Ecumenical Councils happened, why other councils happened..to keep the Faith of Christ undefiled. If we give in to your idea, we lose the Holy Orthodox Faith once given us by the Apostles from Christ. We can't do that. It is either The Way or the way of world? The Way is what our people have d1ed for.
Leavened (artos) vs. Unleavened (azymos) bread is important. Artos was used at the Mystical Supper. Also the yeast is of the Risen Christ and as Christ is the Living Bread from on high, the bread which becomes His pure Body must reflect that, being living bread. Azymos (wafers) is dead bread, not Risen, no life in it. It is the bread of the Old Covenant which was a shadow for the New and Everlasting Covenant in Christ. It absolutely matters.
sorry but this is the heresy of ecumenism. search "why orthodox cannot pray with the heterodox"
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ 23 Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’" (Matthew 7:21 to 7:23)
Did you pay attention to any of this video lol
My struggle with the works thing us that you say that works don't save us, but then you say some things that sound to me like you are saying works do save us.
Forgive me if I am misunderstanding, but it sounds like you are saying that good works are necessary to access the grace of God. So while grace saves us, we get grace by good works (which then makes it a sort of lesser grace, no?).
And after describing what good works do for us, you follow that with, "This is salvation for the Orthodox."
That is why I am confused with this sort of answer. It sounds like saying, "Not A... but also A."
Why does God have wrath towards the unrighteous is wrath is bad?
11:19 is demonic possession
First post 😅
@@stevemcgee99 nope, it was mine! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
I know I've used this joke before, but...
The first shall be last, and the last shall be first!
On works: They are of their father the devil and the works of their father they will do; so good works are are the bright shadow, the good fallout, of the Good Shepherd, therefor are a result of Saved, not a means of Saved. The devil presumably never does truly good works - but only feigned good as a means to evil ends.
Do priests mark their Bibles like Protestants do???
What a dumb question
@@traviswilson36 unnecessary and rude
yeah, their personal Bibles. my priest has quite a few of those. id hope theres no marks in the gospel book, though 😂
I'm sure there are those that do.
But when you actually live in the context of Scripture I personally find it less necessary.
@@yecksd thanks! Appreciate your kindness!
so doing good deeds serve nothing ? all The Lord taught us to do (good), what is it for then? a person who do evil but believes and has faith ( the demons believe also) is equal to a person who do only good and has faith?
yes, ultimatly the Grace saves us, but is enough to have only faith?? hell ( what s its purpouse then?) is full of priests and monks, among others... they surely had faith but didn t do good on earth... even the criminals have faith.... and the commandaments of the Lord, what good are they if we have faith and do evil? didn t St Paul said that if one have faith to move mountains, and believes, and knows by heart al the scriptures but he doesn t have love, he has nothing ? isn t love the greatest best deed to do? the good samaritean? etc etc etc .... doesn t Lord Jesus explained us specifically how to be saved : if you did all these good deeds to the littlest of my brethern , you did it to Me. How then not to expect the Grace of God and be saved, doing good to The Lord Himself?
I am a member of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, and by my understanding, this is what we are taught about why good works are necessary for our salvation.
We were all sinners; it is not only the Gentiles but also the Jews who were sinners. The whole world was guilty of sin. The Jews called the Gentiles sinners, but they themselves were also sinners. Regarding this, Saint Paul says in Romans 3:9, “What shall we conclude then? Are we any better? Not at all! We have already made the charge that Jews and Gentiles alike are all under sin.” Therefore, both Gentiles and Jews are under sin. Hence, Saint Paul says, “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Therefore, everyone needs a savior.
Romans 3:20 says, "Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law, we become conscious of our sin." By doing what we are told not to do, we come to know sin through the law. Therefore, no one can be justified before God by fulfilling the law, as even the Jews who received the law could not do so. What is better? Verse 21 states, "But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify." God revealed His righteousness apart from the law. How was it revealed? It was for all who believe, thus everyone, both circumcised and uncircumcised, approached God by faith. The dividing wall of hostility between Gentiles and Jews was broken. If a person could be justified by themselves, Christ’s death would not be necessary. Saint Paul says in Galatians 2:21, "I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!"
If a person could justify themselves, why did Christ come? Christ came because a person could not justify themselves. The reason is that we are all descendants of Adam, and in the Old Covenant, everyone was a sinner, and everyone’s holiness was relative. Therefore, God sent His Son.
Therefore, if righteousness is obtained through faith in Christ, what is the role of works? A person approaches God through faith and then joins the church. As Saint Luke mentions in Acts 2:47, “And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” The church (the assembly of the apostles) is the body of Christ. To be part of Christ’s body, no work is required. Without any work, one becomes part of Christ’s body. Therefore, we are all saved without works. Why would works be needed? Previously, when we were committing sins, what was the basis of our condemnation? It was because we were descendants of Adam and carried his sinful nature. But now, in Christ Jesus, we are a new creation. Saint Paul says in Romans 6:3, “Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?”
So, we were baptized to be united with Christ’s death. Therefore, we have died with Him. As it says in verse 6, “For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin-because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.” Thus, our old self is gone; we have died and risen anew. How did we rise? In a new life, we have risen as Christians. Romans 6:4 says, “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
Therefore, what does it mean to be buried with Him? It means to walk in newness of life. Walking in newness of life requires presenting our members as instruments of righteousness which is part of good works. After we become Christians by faith and baptism, there is no verse in the Bible that states works are not mandatory because salvation is a process, and we have to keep our salvation. Romans 6:13 states, “Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness.”
Walking in newness of life means offering our members as instruments of righteousness. This is our duty, and it is the purpose for which we were created.
Ephesians 2:8-10 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith-and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Therefore, we are created to do good works. Thus, doing good works is mandatory. If we don’t work? Saint Paul says to the Ephesians in Ephesians 5:5, “For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person-such a person is an idolater-has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.” What does he tell the Christians created to do good works? If you live like those who do such things, you have no inheritance in the kingdom of God. He continues, “Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient.” - Ephesians 5:6
There are two types of children: those who live for the purpose they were created for, doing good works, and the disobedient children. Therefore, we should live for the purpose we were created for. What does that mean? It means fulfilling salvation. Saint Paul in Philippians 2:12 says, “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed-not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence-continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” - Philippians 2:12
To work out salvation means to walk in the newness of life.
Ephesians 5:8-11 says, “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” Above, Saint Paul tells us to bear fruit, and it is not only from himself but also from our Lord Jesus who said:
John 15:1-2, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” If one is in Christ but does not bear fruit, they will be cut off. Therefore, we must bear fruit. This fruit is good works because we are created in Christ Jesus to do good works.
Galatians 6:7-9 says, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Therefore, let us not become weary in doing good works.
"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad." - 2 Corinthians 5:10 If salvation is by faith alone and does not require works, then why are works questioned on the Day of Judgment? Saint Paul received this teaching from Christ himself:
“Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out-those who have done what is good will rise to live, and those who have done what is evil will rise to be condemned.” - John 5:28-29
In conclusion, good works are necessary for our salvation because they are the evidence of our faith and the fruits of our new life in Christ. While we are saved by grace through faith, our continued salvation requires us to live out that faith through good works. Faith without works is dead and that we must continually work out our salvation with fear and trembling.
@@birukasratgebeyehu5214 My my , you put the whole Bible in there! Enough for you to say, and you said it: Ephesians 5:5. Case closed! Beautiful! and thank you !
@@birukasratgebeyehu5214 yes, John 5:28-29, also. thank you so much!
I'm not sure you understand Luther.
Where is orthodox in scripture? I don't remember seeing this.
You miss understanding orthodox is the meaning that we believe in power of church, Holy Father, Jesus Christ, Holly Mary .. this is orthodox and is addressed to people and not to man to follow the real faith in God .
@@EurodanceBlog First, thank you for your response.
Scripture does not need a filter or a special group of people to be “more qualified” than others to know its meaning. There are no private interpretations within scripture.
Jesus told the Sudducees the greatest commandment: Mat 22:37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. Anything or anyone that is put ahead of this commandment is idolatry.
@@ElonTrump19You're already making yourself an authority. Now then, how much do you think a 21th century toddler would understand of Shakespeare's language from the 16th century, if this toddler read all by himself? If we now take a collection of texts, from vastly different timeframes and cultural contexts spanning over thousands of years, how much do you think this toddler would then understand? This is exactly why Christ founded the Church through the Apostles as the Guardian of His Truth. In fact this Church is what gave you the canon of the New Testament as we have it now. There was a whole three centuries between Christ and the composition and confirmation of the New Testament canon by the Church Fathers. How do you think Sola Scriptura worked back then, if it were the case? The Bible didn't just drop down from Heaven. As for Matthew 22:37, that is exactly what the Church teaches, except one doesn't go by single verses, but the entire context it is in. In the Bible that is usually the book or at the very least the chapter. One could take any part of the Old or New Testament and quote it out of context to have the same effect. As for a special group of people, I think this is a misunderstanding of roles. We are all equal as images of God, but that doesn't mean that we all have the same skills or gifts and callings from God. Hence we have clergy and monastics and laymen all important organs of the Body of Christ. It is true that one being a clergyman does not make one the perfect interpretor of Scripture, but it sure makes for a better one than any modern day person. Nonetheless, it has been the Faith of the Fathers of the Church, that anyone that becomes sanctified through prayer sees Holy Scripture ever clearer, however these individuals do not reach this by themselves without the rest of the Church and the Sacraments/Mysteries, that She has been given the power to wield. I hope this clears some things, God be with you! ☦️❤️🔥
You misunderstand what scripture is saying - there is no private interpretation of Scriptire of special revelation because as Paul said in Timothy, the church is the pillar and foundation of truth, which means the protestant private interpretations are false.
@2:53 Such a good start and then the weirdest take... /:
The proud heart is an abomination to God (Proverbs 16:5)
Anyone saying that their denomination is The true one missed the point. Saying that it is the closest to truth might be fair, but saying it is The one simply means thr denomination has replaced Gods Kingdom in your heart.
All the apostles spoke in tongues. and Mother Mary spoke in tongues. The apostle Paul said I speak in tongues more than you all.
Wow, this is the first orthodox video I've watched on my journey to learning about orthodoxy that is outright NOT biblical. Too bad. It all sounds so good, but let's stick to scripture.
The Bible is one aspect, but the Holy tradition is important as well.Our faith is not only a book. I wish you the best,my friend.
@user-wo9lf5ll9e if God didn't explain fundamental things, when we make up our own, how do we know we're still following Christ? His word is consistent that we die once and face judgment. There's no "praying someone out of hell."
@@Hannah-xr4ir From the very beginning, Christians prayed for the dead. The belief that our prayers aid the departed was a practice for the early believers. Nobody here has claimed that we can “pray someone out of hell” though.
Can you guys stop portraying Jesus as white?
Jesus is portrayed in many colors and ethnicities. The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. His message extends past the limits of race or culture.
they don't and why does portraying Jesus as white is bad?
Orthodox separated from the church when they fell out of communion with Peter. [18] And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the powers of death shall not prevail against it. [19] I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. "
He was the rock because he was the first one to know the truth of Jesus. The chosen disciples were equal. Roman Catholics made up that nonsense you spewed when the Bishop of Rome went mad with power 1000years ago and decided to lead people away from the True Church
@silverecho1201 that's the nonsense. The authority of the Bishop of Rome is present in the early church, Pope Victor, Pope Clement, Pope Leo the Great, and the letter of Pope Agatho where the east totally agreed on papal primacy and infallibility. Return to the church and the barque of St Peter.
@@Motomack1042 Lord have mercy on you brother. According to Vatican II if you don't know the papist church is the true church you can receive salvation still. In the 1960s the ecumenical patriarch athenagoras and the pope at the time removed the 1054 anathemas on each other. So according to your own pope and teachings orthodoxy is in communion with Rome already. Obviously true orthodox don't accept that because it was not done with the acceptance of all the bishops just as Rome went on its own with infallibility without all the bishops agreeing. Something to think about.
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@@Motomack1042 0 proof of it. And that letter has been refuted time and time again. Look up Jay Dyer talking about it and he easily refuted it in 5 minutes with evidence it doesn't mean what you think and why.
Question: In the next life, will God heal the wounds and scars of a virgin who was sexually violated? Will God heal the trauma that has been since stored in her body? Will God give her a brand new transfigured body so its as if the violation never took place in her? Thank you
Beautiful! Thank you, dear Father Paul!