Wow! This was a really good informing video. I am currently a Norwegian protestant here and I go to a pentecostal church, but I must say, something about Eastern orthodoxy looks very appealing to me🙏
I, after some time, have come to the conclusion that the Orthodox faith is indeed the original church of Christ. Sadly, none are near me. In fact, the area is devoid of any good churches. Watching online has helped, but that is becoming not enough.
Consider the struggle and environmental factors the Jews endured for God. Consider that God is gathering his gentiles to specific areas just as a shepherd protects his flock. The church’s may be beacons for us to move towards.
Try to contact the specific Archdiocese thst you would be under depending on your area, perhaps they can assist in setting up a mission for your area, until then pray and endure, many have been in your situation, think of the "God-fearers" (Romans who would pay tribute to the God of Israel, most of whom would become the first major group of Gentile Christians after Christ came) who would stand outside of the Temple and Synagogue, be patient, and trust that God will give you a path towards His Church
@@PatronSaintSpyridon Are you a Christian Zionists? the Jews endured for God but you don't mention the first Christians or the Christians who currently live in places like Bethlehem and Gaza?
Wow, this is an amazing video! Thank you! I am a Greek Orthodox raised in Greece. Unfortunately, this lead for me to many years not being truly faithful. Since by living in an orthodox country, I saw the church more like a mere tradition. This happens to most people I know of that are currently in their 30ies. However, something is pulling me to faith in the past few months. I am currently reading the Bible for the first time and trying to absorb as much as possible from the history of our church. Your video has been tremendously informative and helped me to further strengthen my orthodox faith. Thank you!
@@richardb5298 I don't think that's true. Funnily enough most of the material I read/watch etc. that pull me closer to Orthodoxy happen to be in English. This is because I currently don't live in Greece and access to greek books is very limited and/or very expensive where I am. Thank God, language doesn't matter for 99% of the things. There are few exceptions where some words might not have a direct translation, but still you can get it, if you describe the concept and the meaning.
@@richardb5298Greek-Canadian here living in Greece, with English being my 1st language in order, which I also teach. Equally fluent in Greek. Started with King James Version, have read modernized, Greek modern & ancient, and everything makes the same sense, so does Orthodoxy.
After researching the church history I am too going towards orthodox Christianity for sure. I believe this is the true church and I need to find a church near me that is orthodox
Greetings from Colombia 🇨🇴 in south america I also became Orthodox last year ☦️ i use to be roman catholic. We are an small comunity but is growing so fast All glory to Christ
Christ is Risen and the truth being revealed after centuries of oppression by greedy false christian organizations putting their leaders wealth, luxury and extreme greed above the poor faithful constantly cheating them out of their meager earnings by demanding tithes when the collection plates are passed around at their services.
Raised Baptist, spent my adult life in a Calvary Chapel nondenominational church, newly illumined communicant. My catechism path has ended and orthodox journey has commenced! Glory to God!
Very similar story. I was southern Baptist in Alabama but watched on UA-cam the Josiah Trenham rock and sand interview. After watching I walked around my neighborhood in stunned silence for over an hour in complete shock thinking I had to know more. Eventually concluded the Orthodox Church was the church Christ established at Pentecost
@@sethjackson3078 when I told my wife about this she initially cried and had to go to therapy so it was not a great start haha. But the biggest thing has been not solely making historical or logical arguments but also living it out. If I had to guess the reaction will be negative but if you are living it out they’ll see the change in you and wonder what it’s all about.
I want to say, wonderful video. I've been looking into Orthodoxy for a while and out of all the videos nothing has gotten me closer to converting and accepting Orthodoxy than this video. this video may have been the absolute last push I needed to get me to Orthodoxy and for that I thank you dearly, may God have mercy on you brother.
An ethnic Greek Orthodox Christianity here. You explained everything as it is. May God always be blessing your work. Κύριε Ιησού Χριστέ, Υιέ του Θεού, ελέησον ημάς τους αμαρτωλούς.
As a Protestant just now coming into Orthodoxy, after a year of researching, thank you, thank you... I had my first Divine Liturgy today, and it has upset (in a good way) my whole existence! It's like I've had air breathed into my lungs, and I haven't stopped crying yet.❤
Great video and certainly explains what authentic unchanged and spiritual christiajity looks like. Truly makes one feel closer to Christ's truth, not watered down like so many denominations
This is the best video i have watched on christianity in a long time! Normally I cant even focus for 15 minutes, but you made me listen for the full two hours... Amazing work, God bless.
@untoages This is incredible. I’ve always felt that converts often have a stronger faith than those of us who were born into Orthodoxy, like myself. Someone who has searched deeply to discover a treasure tends to value it far more than those who inherited it. American converts to Orthodoxy have also had a profound impact on my own spiritual growth. They are truly on the front lines of the current spiritual battle in the U.S., and their role is both significant and well-deserved.
@@Anton_Gress Thank you for such a positive comment! There’s a subgroup of Orthodox who have an antagonistic view towards converts, I wish more people shared your perspective.
Well done, young man, well done! I was born and raised in Savannah, GA. Growing up I had Greek friends and even played basketball for their Parish. Alas being Episcopalian at the time, I just viewed them as nothing more than a Greek Country Club. How wrong I was, right? Fast forward 50 years and it finds me in another deeply Southern City, baptized and chrisimated for two years now. I've never been happier! And here I was thinking that I was the only theological schizophrenic! New subscriber because of your upload!
I appreciate you recording this video. after about 7 years of seeking and increasingly frustrated with church, about a month ago I was given the book "Thirsting for God, in a land of shallow wells" and upon finishing immediately emailed my PUSA Presbyterian Pastor that I will not be returning. I appreciate your video as a deeper dive into the similar topic.
I've gone to various protestant aberrant "churches" my whole life. I enjoyed the fellowship but was never satisfied on its form of liturgy consisting of big screens, skinny jeans, fog machines, and a pop-psych humanist centric message designed to tickle the ears. I've now come to the conclusion that Protestants' form of "church" is like fast food. It appeals to the flesh, might even taste good, but will you completely empty. It is not by accident I stumbled across Fr. Josiah Trenham's messages and it was like being struck by lightning! Brothers pray I can find an Orthodox church and go through catechism.
What a revelatory video. I have been searching for more answers for a while. And what you've delineated was all that I've been uncovering. You've put it so well and have a really great way of explaining things. I was an atheist before searching to disprove Christianity. Ironically, I discovered the exact opposite and it humbled me deeply. Thank you my brother in Christ. God bless you. Pray that an Orthodox church is planted near my hometown please! 🙏
Greetings from Greece brother☦«Εγώ ειμί η ανάστασις και η ζωή. Ο πιστεύων εις εμέ, καν αποθάνη, ζήσεται΄ και πας ο ζων και πιστεύων εις εμέ ου μη αποθάνη εις τον αιώνα» (Ιωάν.11:26)
Thank you. My son is Orthodox and has been helping me unlearn my Protestant belief system. I knew there was something more, as my husband and I parted from the Protestant church, several of them actually, because of contradictory and heretical teachings. We began to see even unholy behavior and started seeking Truth. There are two Orthodox churches near me; one Russian, the other Greek, my son attend the Russian. I go with him about once a month, and want to go more. There are many things I still don't understand but I truly believe I'm on the right path. This video helped me allot, so thank you! ☺️
I have been non denominational for a while now, raised Protestant, fell off the path for a few years before returning to my faith in Christ, as non denominational. After watching your videos, I have decided on going to the local Orthodox Church, likely going to fully convert soon. Glory be to God. Christ is King. God bless.
This is so well explained and sussinct. All of it describes the reasons I became an Orthodox Christian. May it be Blessed and Gods will be done! All glory to God!
Ive been inquiring for a while and the more I am learning I find it heartbreaking realizing how truly distorted the perception of Christinaity is . Thanks for this wonderful video. Lord jesus have mercy on us all .
Mate, I have watched the two videos by Josiah Trenham and I have just finished watching and slowly breaking down your explanations and guidance on Sola Fide and Sola Scriptura. Everything you have said so far is in line with everything I felt wrong and my previous convictions about those two solas.
Thank you for the time and effort you put into this video. I am protestant and have been on a journey of seeking the true church for several years. I spent a lot of time researching catholicism after which I felt I was back to square one. I have begun attending an orthodox church near me and doing more research on my own. This video was a wonderful explanation and comparison. Thank you again! ❤
I appreciate you making this video. I am Episcopalian myself, and I was able to listen to this for the entirety of the video. It has given me many things to think about, and look clearer at what the Episcopalian sect means to me outside of growing up in it.
I doubt you'll ever see this, but you are my tipping point. I have always been in the hall as a non-denom knocking on the door of Orthodoxy. Thank you, and I hope and pray I may be able to find the Orthodox church for me. CHRIST HAS RISEN
Excellent story! Been on a similar journey myself this year. I started digging in to the writings of the Church Fathers and very quickly found myself face to face with things that, as someone with a Baptist/nondenom upbringing, I was constantly told were "later, unbiblical creations of Rome!" Fast forward to today, I'm currently a Catechumen at a local Russian parish. Hoping I can partake of Christ's body and blood sometime early next year.
Grew up nondenom protestant, and as a result became agnostic in my teen and early adult years. Politically leaned heavily into anarchy and punk culture. Eventually learned about Death to the World, Justin Marler and his journey, John Valadez, and soon started to seek why so many just like me, seemingly so sudden-like, were pulled to Orthodoxy. I hadn't known of Orthodoxy except that it was very common in Eastern Europe and former Soviet Union satellite states. Having done much research of general fascination and curiosity, my lack of faith started to recede and a small blossom has taken it's place. We have visited two churches, and have two more to try before we fully leap in. But I'm sold on it. Orthodox goers are truly blessed and authentic followers of Christ which was something I could feel a lack of in Protestantism. Glory to God!
Current Roman Catholic, but I’m becoming convicted to convert. I will be visiting a Greek Orthodox Church or Antiochian Orthodox Church within the next couple of weeks, the closest one is about 85 miles away from me.
good video i am an orthodox Christian from Ethiopia. our church has been around ever since the beginning. orthodox contains most things that are found in Protestantism and so much more. which means an orthodox has everything protestants have , but not the other way around. our church is not reformed , we stay true to the gospel and Jesus , we also have the same belief through out the world. orthodox is like Christ , humble filled with humility , strict and with a higher quality. im sure the more you understand things the more you will love it.
I thank you from the bottom of my heart for this video. Former JW here, then Messianic Jew and after that evangelical Christian for a while and after this odyssey and disillusioned from shallow Christianity I was lost in New Age for several years. Now I have come home. Home to the true Christ, alive in Orthodoxy as a Catechumen 🩷. Lord have mercy on me as a sinner. Thank you for having guided me home😭☦️.
I was an unbeliever a decade ago and gradually found my faith in Christ. Wanting a connection and path Christ didnt seem clear until I discovered orthodoxy, it's beautiful and ornate, ancient and rich in tradition. I love its history and I really think if more people knew of orthodoxy in the west it would take over and look forward to its future
I myself was raised protestant. I always felt as though I went thru the drive thru and didn't receive all of my order, something was missing. Long story short, I became Orthodox 12/17/22. No doubt in me that this is the true church.
I loved your video, It strenghten my decision of becoming orthodox christian from being catholic and not finding any sense on many of the questions that you addressed in this video. Thanks for this
I have been experiencing a very similar journey. From non-denominational to an Orthodox inquirer. A desire to better understand my theological positions became a full-on deep dive into Church history and theology. As someone from the South, I used to think there was only Protestantism and Catholicism. All glory to God in allowing me to find the true apostolic faith.
9:36 The Great Schism happened between Rome and Constantinople/Alexandria/Antioch/Jerusalem + GEORGIA (Georgia was already autocephalous in 1054 AD and its head bishop was called Catholicos-Patriarch since 1010 AD).
My friend attended the same church when we were at Fort Gordon together. He's the one who opened me up to orthodoxy, and I bought a book called Saint silouan, the athonite. Life changing.
I found this interesting. I was an orthodox Christian for a whole year and I do not regret that year I spent with the church. The people are great and like them, I have always wondered how people came to find the church Thank you for sharing.
Not sure what you’re saying.. you were in an Orthodox church for a year, then left?? So you weren’t baptized? Leaving is definitely the wrong choice, eternally speaking. This is the only church to be in, the only one God has given us. It’s the one that gives you the greatest chance of making it into heaven.
@kaelou3408 Yes. I was in the church. Attended as a catechumen looking to be baptized in but I had a falling out and a calling to what I was previously. I am perfectly fine for the choice I made but I do not ever regret that year i was with the church. Essentially the lifestyle was not for me but I do enjoy the stories on why people choose the Orthodox Church.
I just finished „Arise, O God“ - what a wonferfull book! I seem to be on a similar journey as yourself and I want to thank you for this video and especially your recommendations at the end. Half of the books I read already so I just knew I would love the ones I did not yet! Thank you!
Officially joined the Church this fall. St. John is also my patron saint. His icon was handed to me on the day of iconography, during one of my first visits to a Divine Liturgy. I think that he also chose me. God bless you!
This is an amazing video, well done! I was born and raised as an Coptic orthodox Christian and I've been trying to help my friends get a better understanding of everything, I am definitely going to send them your video. Cheers..
Brother, eastern orthodox and coptic isn't the same. I'll recommend you to watch David Erhan on that topic. Afterwards you can dm me and we can talk about that.
A couple years ago, before I became orthodox, I was reading this “Bible” written by some man who claimed to have the Spirit, and doing edibles. Long story short I got possessed, saw this powerful light who I believed was Jesus, and knew immediately that calling yourself “saved” meant you believe your works here warrant your place next to that light. I knew it would be impossible to even come close to that. Shortly after this experience, I found Jay dyer and fr spyridon talking about prelest. Which then led to orthodoxy and the answers to all my questions regarding church and faith. Converting from pentecostal and knowing there’s a church who’s teaching I can submit to was easy tbh. I’ve learned more in two years than my entire life (granted the Lord gave me desire to know truth), but the hard part is my gf/family do not see what I see. But I get why all the kids I grew up with in Protestant churches are atheists now. Apostolic teaching, traditions, reverence, everything is lost. Imo, To claim grape juice and crackers being just a symbol has had consequences that can’t even be quantified bc nothing has actual significance
Wow, that’s an incredible and wild story. Thank you for sharing! Continue to pray for your girlfriend and family and show forth fruits of repentance. Perhaps they will come and see in time.
I’d also like to add; yes, we know Christ is the only way to the Father. No, we don’t have to ask for Intercession. We know this. We do it because we each have our favourite Saints whom we have a connection with and it feels nice to pray with them. We know we don’t have to do that, but it feels good to pray with someone who is a flawed sinner just like us and reminds us that even the biggest sinners can repent and it’s part of our tradition going back thousands of years
I am a catechumen and really feel zero connection to the saints. I want to fit in but for example, kissing the icons. I kiss them, but it just feels odd to me. I hope I'm able to conform because I do appreciate orthodoxy.
@@clbaird40 Beloved, first thing I’d say to you is you’re trying too hard. These things come naturally with time. Nobody expects you to have a Patron Saint except yourself. Christianity is lifelong commitment, so sit tight and avoid burning yourself out. Second: Relax, breathe. It’s ok, you don’t have to “fit in” in the way that it sounds like you want to. Third: read about the lives of the Saints. There are so many resources available for you to look into. Eventually, you’ll come across one that is a spitting image of you and that is likely to be the Saint you most connect with. Start with the Beloved Theotokos. She’s my favourite. Ask her to bring your prayers to her Son and our God. Welcome, beloved. It’s a journey, and be patient with yourself. Christ walks with you always. “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
@@clbaird40 The Saints are with us at every Divine Liturgy. The empty spaces in the Nave are filled with them. Read the life of St. Spirydon of Trimethus.
@@clbaird40i was born orthodox and felt this way too before I had the chance and time to grow in my faith (I still consider myself immature in that sense). It helps reading about them, and understanding that these are real people that lived and went through all the temptations you did, and struggled even, but that they loved Christ more that themselves. I highly recommend the book Confessions of Saint Augustine- for me it feels like having a companion, someone dear to my heart that I look up to.
What a beautiful story. Very familiar to my own, but it wasn't until around 30 where God literally caused miraculous occurrences, on top of my historical and biblical searching, that finally brought me to Holy Orthodoxy. I cant wait to watch the rest of this. But it's awesome to hear others go through such a similar walk as I. God bless you! Welcome home, my brother in Christ Jesus! I'd love to ask you some questions about your situation with your family or friends, as this was/is a very difficult issue for me.
Thank you! Most of my family has been accepting of my conversion (thankfully). I’ve even sent this series to them and it has led to fruitful conversations. In part, that’s why I made it. Same with friends - some may ask questions, but none have been particularly antagonistic about my conversion. But I understand it can be difficult in certain situations - I’ve heard the horror stories from some of my other Orthodox convert friends.
@@untoages does orthodox believe and keep Exodus 20:8-11, the 7th day Sabbath, as the Bible shows us? or does it bow to the papacy and pretend the 1st day is the Lord's day? sincere question. thanks for your time, Sir.
The Orthodox Church does not bow to the papacy; Rome is not in Communion with us, and we do not recognize the Pope's self-appointed "authority" over all other bishops. For the first 1,054 years of Christianity, there were no "denominations," only the Church, and all bishops had authority within their own sees, or areas of influence. The bishop of Rome, now referred to by Roman Papists as the Pope, was simply considered a position of honor--the first among equals. There was no historical precedent for the bishop of Rome having "authority" over any other bishops, as the structure of the Church was collegiate. The Orthodox still consider the Sabbath to be civil calendar Saturday, but our liturgical life revolves around the Divine Liturgy, which is the mini-Easter celebrated every first day (every Sunday), as it is truly a foretaste of the Kingdom in the age to come which will have no end.
@@evanrico3244 'easter' is pagan, Sir -- created by catholicism. and nothing in Scripture directs us to follow the papacy in pretending the 1st day is the Lord's day. in fact, Jesus resurrected and ascended and the NT was written decades later -- there is absolutely zero support for anyone pretending the Sabbath Command has changed. does this church at least keep the 7th day Holy?
@@evanrico3244 you also stated that , 'there were no 'denominations', only the Church...' -- i agree. yet that church has specific criteria -- see 1 Tim 3:15 and John 14:15 -- can't be His church if you're not following these. no sunday church follows these, Sir. and as for a 'foretaste of the kingdom' to come, see Isaiah 66:22-23 we will still be keeping Holy the 7th day Sabbath in God's Kingdom.
Thank you so much, I forwarded this to my sister and Brother who are protestants and prideful. And I can'ttalk to them because they really intimidate me.. thank you
my protestant/baptist family lacks understanding because they don't have an ear for it. They think intercession is idol worship , and that Orthodox are going to hell...
Read the epistle of James to them. And tell them that intercession is like them praying for someone. And that condemning others is a sin and shows pride and wrath. Hope that'll help you, it's really sad that there's such a devide in your family.
@@orthoclips2k24 i recently came across the "it's like paying for somebody" notion- and it appears to be the actual disposition of the Orthodox. You are asking brothers and sisters in Christ to ALSO appeal to Christ for/with you. I do not see the Catholics as carrying the same disposition - especially when it comes to "Mommy Mary".
Great job! Made the decision this week to leave reformed/ Calvinistic church in favor of Orthodoxy. Started studying Church history and it didn’t take long to realize I had big problems and was probably in a cult. lol. Thank God for opening my eyes and heart to the true church.
I’m grateful for my time in a Methodist church and the many great people I’ve met and the guidance they’ve given me but my heart is so stirred by orthodoxy. The lives of the saints are such incredible evidence of the God’s presence. I just want to seek Christ in his fullness
A little background for some context: I found myself to be an atheist at a very young age. Around four years ago, I gave my life to Jesus Christ. I've attended a few churches over the years, and I just can't explain how I feel other than something is missing. I've fallen back into sin and have stopped attending church for some time now. I am trying to be very careful as I navigate and sort out these thoughts and look personally at myself so I am not trying to blame a certain church or doctrine. I live in South Eastern USA. As you can imagine, all churches here are Protestant. That being said, I cannot help but to feel this pull and draw to Orthodoxy. An increasing desire to learn more and more. The history, the art, the tradition, the saints and church fathers, etc... It's all missing in Protestantism. It's all very appealing and attractive and seems to connect with me in a way I'm not able to articulate at this time. I pray God leads me to where I will flourish.
@@EthanLafferty Keep seeking! Orthodoxy is growing in America, depending on where in the southeast you are, there may be an Orthodox parish near you. Check one out sometime!
Rock and sand. A video thats been sitting in my watch later for years. A video game that drew me to Orthodoxy's heart, Constantinople. Such a silly thing. But its time i followed these crumbs instead of forsaking them.
I have no idea how I found this video but I feel like all of my intrinsic questions or simply things that never made since as a Lutheran are being answered. Especially the "Push to be saved and then what?" Statement. I have asked myself that a thousand times...
I am serb orthodox each serb family has a saint to celebrate as well as christmas and easter Every year May 6th we have a family gathering where we acknowledge god and Pray to or saint to protect our home
The LORD bless you!!! We care about you! You don’t need to defend so much in the beginning of your videos. I used to do it too- it’s stressful. Don’t worry about those who shouldn’t even be watching your videos. They can remove themselves since they are not of us. Bless you! Don’t feed your pearls to swine, and your time is valuable
Wow! This was a really good informing video.
I am currently a Norwegian protestant here and I go to a pentecostal church, but I must say, something about Eastern orthodoxy looks very appealing to me🙏
I, after some time, have come to the conclusion that the Orthodox faith is indeed the original church of Christ. Sadly, none are near me. In fact, the area is devoid of any good churches. Watching online has helped, but that is becoming not enough.
Yes
Consider the struggle and environmental factors the Jews endured for God. Consider that God is gathering his gentiles to specific areas just as a shepherd protects his flock. The church’s may be beacons for us to move towards.
Try to contact the specific Archdiocese thst you would be under depending on your area, perhaps they can assist in setting up a mission for your area, until then pray and endure, many have been in your situation, think of the "God-fearers" (Romans who would pay tribute to the God of Israel, most of whom would become the first major group of Gentile Christians after Christ came) who would stand outside of the Temple and Synagogue, be patient, and trust that God will give you a path towards His Church
Consider making a trip sometime, even if it’s far away! God bless your journey 🙏🏻
@@PatronSaintSpyridon Are you a Christian Zionists? the Jews endured for God but you don't mention the first Christians or the Christians who currently live in places like Bethlehem and Gaza?
Wow, this is an amazing video! Thank you!
I am a Greek Orthodox raised in Greece. Unfortunately, this lead for me to many years not being truly faithful. Since by living in an orthodox country, I saw the church more like a mere tradition. This happens to most people I know of that are currently in their 30ies.
However, something is pulling me to faith in the past few months. I am currently reading the Bible for the first time and trying to absorb as much as possible from the history of our church. Your video has been tremendously informative and helped me to further strengthen my orthodox faith. Thank you!
@@tekaneo Thank you so much! Glory to God that He drew you back in as well.
Orthodoxy make sense only if you speak greek
@@richardb5298 I don't think that's true.
Funnily enough most of the material I read/watch etc. that pull me closer to Orthodoxy happen to be in English. This is because I currently don't live in Greece and access to greek books is very limited and/or very expensive where I am. Thank God, language doesn't matter for 99% of the things.
There are few exceptions where some words might not have a direct translation, but still you can get it, if you describe the concept and the meaning.
@@richardb5298Greek-Canadian here living in Greece, with English being my 1st language in order, which I also teach. Equally fluent in Greek. Started with King James Version, have read modernized, Greek modern & ancient, and everything makes the same sense, so does Orthodoxy.
Former American Protestant turned Orthodox Christian here ☦️🙌
Christos ANESTI
ALITHOS ANESTI+++
ALITHOS ANESTI
After researching the church history I am too going towards orthodox Christianity for sure. I believe this is the true church and I need to find a church near me that is orthodox
Greetings from Colombia 🇨🇴 in south america
I also became Orthodox last year ☦️ i use to be roman catholic.
We are an small comunity but is growing so fast
All glory to Christ
I am in Medellín, Colombia. Do you know any Orthodox churches here?
Christ is Risen and the truth being revealed after centuries of oppression by greedy false christian organizations putting their leaders wealth, luxury and extreme greed above the poor faithful constantly cheating them out of their meager earnings by demanding tithes when the collection plates are passed around at their services.
Colombian american here, I want to visit a orthodox in colombia!
Raised Baptist, spent my adult life in a Calvary Chapel nondenominational church, newly illumined communicant. My catechism path has ended and orthodox journey has commenced! Glory to God!
God bless you and yours always
Calvary chapel was cia adjacent I believe
The protestantism has left my body
@@PoopDynamyx lol
you never knew what the protest was/is about then.
Very similar story. I was southern Baptist in Alabama but watched on UA-cam the Josiah Trenham rock and sand interview. After watching I walked around my neighborhood in stunned silence for over an hour in complete shock thinking I had to know more. Eventually concluded the Orthodox Church was the church Christ established at Pentecost
Rock and sand changed everything for me
Same with me, had to ask myself some hard questions after watching Rock and Sand and his other videos
Glory to God ❤
It's crazy I am currently a southern Baptist from Alabama looking to join the Orthodox Church but i am worried about telling my family any tips?
@@sethjackson3078 when I told my wife about this she initially cried and had to go to therapy so it was not a great start haha. But the biggest thing has been not solely making historical or logical arguments but also living it out. If I had to guess the reaction will be negative but if you are living it out they’ll see the change in you and wonder what it’s all about.
I want to say, wonderful video. I've been looking into Orthodoxy for a while and out of all the videos nothing has gotten me closer to converting and accepting Orthodoxy than this video. this video may have been the absolute last push I needed to get me to Orthodoxy and for that I thank you dearly, may God have mercy on you brother.
@@kekultur Wow, glory to God! Thank you for this comment. Now go to church!
@@untoagesCould you please show which video you recommend
An ethnic Greek Orthodox Christianity here. You explained everything as it is. May God always be blessing your work.
Κύριε Ιησού Χριστέ, Υιέ του Θεού, ελέησον ημάς τους αμαρτωλούς.
As a Protestant just now coming into Orthodoxy, after a year of researching, thank you, thank you... I had my first Divine Liturgy today, and it has upset (in a good way) my whole existence! It's like I've had air breathed into my lungs, and I haven't stopped crying yet.❤
This is so good. I grew up protestant and was even a pastor. Currently an EO Catechumen☦️♥️
Former Roman Catholic here, I became an Orthodox Christian ☦🙏
Me too, i´m Colombian now Orthodox
Former Roman Catholic, I also converted to the Eastern Orthodox church
Hi! I am currently deciding whether to become Orthodox. What made you renounce the papacy and filioque? 1:19
May God have mercy on your soul.
@@bigmonkee639 please do not, remain Catholic
You read my thoughts. I left behind Protestantism after 25 years for Orthodoxy in 2023. ***Great job on this video***
Former Baptist to Orthodox. Loving Christ and His glory
Great video and certainly explains what authentic unchanged and spiritual christiajity looks like. Truly makes one feel closer to Christ's truth, not watered down like so many denominations
This is the best video i have watched on christianity in a long time! Normally I cant even focus for 15 minutes, but you made me listen for the full two hours... Amazing work, God bless.
@untoages This is incredible. I’ve always felt that converts often have a stronger faith than those of us who were born into Orthodoxy, like myself. Someone who has searched deeply to discover a treasure tends to value it far more than those who inherited it. American converts to Orthodoxy have also had a profound impact on my own spiritual growth. They are truly on the front lines of the current spiritual battle in the U.S., and their role is both significant and well-deserved.
@@Anton_Gress Thank you for such a positive comment! There’s a subgroup of Orthodox who have an antagonistic view towards converts, I wish more people shared your perspective.
It's like you described my path to Holy Orthodoxy. Glory to God! And God bless you.
Well done, young man, well done! I was born and raised in Savannah, GA. Growing up I had Greek friends and even played basketball for their Parish. Alas being Episcopalian at the time, I just viewed them as nothing more than a Greek Country Club. How wrong I was, right? Fast forward 50 years and it finds me in another deeply Southern City, baptized and chrisimated for two years now. I've never been happier! And here I was thinking that I was the only theological schizophrenic! New subscriber because of your upload!
Glory to God! I used to live not far from Savannah, actually. I’m happy to hear you’ve found the Church as well!
@untoages
if you were in a military town outside of savannah where to go?
I appreciate you recording this video. after about 7 years of seeking and increasingly frustrated with church, about a month ago I was given the book "Thirsting for God, in a land of shallow wells" and upon finishing immediately emailed my PUSA Presbyterian Pastor that I will not be returning. I appreciate your video as a deeper dive into the similar topic.
I've gone to various protestant aberrant "churches" my whole life. I enjoyed the fellowship but was never satisfied on its form of liturgy consisting of big screens, skinny jeans, fog machines, and a pop-psych humanist centric message designed to tickle the ears. I've now come to the conclusion that Protestants' form of "church" is like fast food. It appeals to the flesh, might even taste good, but will you completely empty. It is not by accident I stumbled across Fr. Josiah Trenham's messages and it was like being struck by lightning! Brothers pray I can find an Orthodox church and go through catechism.
What a revelatory video. I have been searching for more answers for a while. And what you've delineated was all that I've been uncovering. You've put it so well and have a really great way of explaining things.
I was an atheist before searching to disprove Christianity. Ironically, I discovered the exact opposite and it humbled me deeply. Thank you my brother in Christ. God bless you. Pray that an Orthodox church is planted near my hometown please! 🙏
@@dwats250 Glory to God!
Greetings from Greece brother☦«Εγώ ειμί η ανάστασις και η ζωή. Ο πιστεύων εις εμέ, καν αποθάνη, ζήσεται΄ και πας ο ζων και πιστεύων εις εμέ ου μη αποθάνη εις τον αιώνα» (Ιωάν.11:26)
So much of this was my own experience and journey to Orthodoxy. Thank you for producing this. It will be shared widely. Glory to God!
Christ Has Risen! ❤️☦️
Ваистину воскресе!
Great video man, my journey was very similar to yours. I am now a catechumen in hopes of being baptized sometime next year ☦️☦️☦️
Glory to God!
Glory to God!
Just the concept of a “catechumen” is unbiblical.
{Acts 8:26-40}
Heard gospel > believed > got dunked . . .
I am now an orthodox Christian, thank very much sir for this video, it helped alot. May God bless you
Thank you. My son is Orthodox and has been helping me unlearn my Protestant belief system. I knew there was something more, as my husband and I parted from the Protestant church, several of them actually, because of contradictory and heretical teachings. We began to see even unholy behavior and started seeking Truth. There are two Orthodox churches near me; one Russian, the other Greek, my son attend the Russian. I go with him about once a month, and want to go more. There are many things I still don't understand but I truly believe I'm on the right path. This video helped me allot, so thank you! ☺️
@@yvonnegettel1278 Glory to God! Keep seeking!
thank you for putting the fear of God back into my life
This is an awesome compliment, thank you! The goal is to point to Christ & His Church with everything on this channel ☦️
I have been non denominational for a while now, raised Protestant, fell off the path for a few years before returning to my faith in Christ, as non denominational. After watching your videos, I have decided on going to the local Orthodox Church, likely going to fully convert soon. Glory be to God. Christ is King. God bless.
@@mikeykay1898 Glory to God, that’s awesome news!
This is so well explained and sussinct. All of it describes the reasons I became an Orthodox Christian. May it be Blessed and Gods will be done!
All glory to God!
31:23 so far, the only thing I have objected to was that "southern" accent. If it had been more convincing, I would have heartily accepted it.
😂
Christos Anesti! Greetings from Greece!
Alithos Anesti! I just left Greece this morning after visiting Mt. Athos for the first time. I love how faithful your people are in Greece!
I was a seven day advent I almost lost my way due to the atheist of this world this video is helping me understand a lot about the christian world
Ive been inquiring for a while and the more I am learning I find it heartbreaking realizing how truly distorted the perception of Christinaity is . Thanks for this wonderful video. Lord jesus have mercy on us all .
Sooo true!!! It’s heartbreaking, so many millions of western christian’s have no idea what they’re missing.
Mate, I have watched the two videos by Josiah Trenham and I have just finished watching and slowly breaking down your explanations and guidance on Sola Fide and Sola Scriptura. Everything you have said so far is in line with everything I felt wrong and my previous convictions about those two solas.
Thank you for the time and effort you put into this video. I am protestant and have been on a journey of seeking the true church for several years. I spent a lot of time researching catholicism after which I felt I was back to square one. I have begun attending an orthodox church near me and doing more research on my own. This video was a wonderful explanation and comparison. Thank you again! ❤
This is incredibly informative! Thank you!! Protestant here learning about Orthodoxy and Christian history. Please pray for me 🙏
@@Shoop8964 Keep seeking!
I appreciate you making this video. I am Episcopalian myself, and I was able to listen to this for the entirety of the video. It has given me many things to think about, and look clearer at what the Episcopalian sect means to me outside of growing up in it.
I doubt you'll ever see this, but you are my tipping point. I have always been in the hall as a non-denom knocking on the door of Orthodoxy. Thank you, and I hope and pray I may be able to find the Orthodox church for me. CHRIST HAS RISEN
@@desertfennec2382 I see all of the comments 🙂 glory to God! Keep seeking, may God bless your journey!
Greetings from Orthodox Serbia, brother!❤💙🤍☦
Христос Васкрсе!☦
Excellent story! Been on a similar journey myself this year. I started digging in to the writings of the Church Fathers and very quickly found myself face to face with things that, as someone with a Baptist/nondenom upbringing, I was constantly told were "later, unbiblical creations of Rome!" Fast forward to today, I'm currently a Catechumen at a local Russian parish. Hoping I can partake of Christ's body and blood sometime early next year.
Grew up nondenom protestant, and as a result became agnostic in my teen and early adult years. Politically leaned heavily into anarchy and punk culture. Eventually learned about Death to the World, Justin Marler and his journey, John Valadez, and soon started to seek why so many just like me, seemingly so sudden-like, were pulled to Orthodoxy. I hadn't known of Orthodoxy except that it was very common in Eastern Europe and former Soviet Union satellite states. Having done much research of general fascination and curiosity, my lack of faith started to recede and a small blossom has taken it's place. We have visited two churches, and have two more to try before we fully leap in. But I'm sold on it. Orthodox goers are truly blessed and authentic followers of Christ which was something I could feel a lack of in Protestantism. Glory to God!
Current Roman Catholic, but I’m becoming convicted to convert. I will be visiting a Greek Orthodox Church or Antiochian Orthodox Church within the next couple of weeks, the closest one is about 85 miles away from me.
@@andrewparsons3344 God bless your effort!
good video i am an orthodox Christian from Ethiopia. our church has been around ever since the beginning. orthodox contains most things that are found in Protestantism and so much more. which means an orthodox has everything protestants have , but not the other way around. our church is not reformed , we stay true to the gospel and Jesus , we also have the same belief through out the world. orthodox is like Christ , humble filled with humility , strict and with a higher quality. im sure the more you understand things the more you will love it.
Excellent video. Keep up the good work brother.! ☦☦☦
I thank you from the bottom of my heart for this video. Former JW here, then Messianic Jew and after that evangelical Christian for a while and after this odyssey and disillusioned from shallow Christianity I was lost in New Age for several years. Now I have come home. Home to the true Christ, alive in Orthodoxy as a Catechumen 🩷. Lord have mercy on me as a sinner. Thank you for having guided me home😭☦️.
@@mailynrebecca Glory to God! He is merciful 🙏🏻
@@untoages🙏🕊️
Appreciate the video. Very well made
I was an unbeliever a decade ago and gradually found my faith in Christ. Wanting a connection and path Christ didnt seem clear until I discovered orthodoxy, it's beautiful and ornate, ancient and rich in tradition. I love its history and I really think if more people knew of orthodoxy in the west it would take over and look forward to its future
Thank you for your testimony.
I myself was raised protestant. I always felt as though I went thru the drive thru and didn't receive all of my order, something was missing. Long story short, I became Orthodox 12/17/22. No doubt in me that this is the true church.
I enjoyed this truthful presentation and it is Very well done. Thank you, I can share this without offending.
I loved your video, It strenghten my decision of becoming orthodox christian from being catholic and not finding any sense on many of the questions that you addressed in this video. Thanks for this
This was absolutely amazing and insightful. Clear and concise. I’m currently a reformed Baptist(?) but I am searching…thank you for this. ✨🙏🏽
In this Church Christ is living for ages. God Bless you all my Brothers!
Inspiring philosophy is the top G!
I have been experiencing a very similar journey. From non-denominational to an Orthodox inquirer. A desire to better understand my theological positions became a full-on deep dive into Church history and theology. As someone from the South, I used to think there was only Protestantism and Catholicism. All glory to God in allowing me to find the true apostolic faith.
9:36 The Great Schism happened between Rome and Constantinople/Alexandria/Antioch/Jerusalem + GEORGIA (Georgia was already autocephalous in 1054 AD and its head bishop was called Catholicos-Patriarch since 1010 AD).
My friend attended the same church when we were at Fort Gordon together. He's the one who opened me up to orthodoxy, and I bought a book called Saint silouan, the athonite. Life changing.
im glad to hear for you!!! im still on my journey☦️
I found this interesting. I was an orthodox Christian for a whole year and I do not regret that year I spent with the church. The people are great and like them, I have always wondered how people came to find the church
Thank you for sharing.
Not sure what you’re saying.. you were in an Orthodox church for a year, then left?? So you weren’t baptized? Leaving is definitely the wrong choice, eternally speaking. This is the only church to be in, the only one God has given us. It’s the one that gives you the greatest chance of making it into heaven.
@kaelou3408 Yes. I was in the church. Attended as a catechumen looking to be baptized in but I had a falling out and a calling to what I was previously. I am perfectly fine for the choice I made but I do not ever regret that year i was with the church. Essentially the lifestyle was not for me but I do enjoy the stories on why people choose the Orthodox Church.
Thank you, this was an excellent synthesis of all of your videos
Thank YOU for tuning in!
What an awesome explanation brother , God bless you again and again
I just finished „Arise, O God“ - what a wonferfull book!
I seem to be on a similar journey as yourself and I want to thank you for this video and especially your recommendations at the end. Half of the books I read already so I just knew I would love the ones I did not yet! Thank you!
Glory to God!
Officially joined the Church this fall. St. John is also my patron saint. His icon was handed to me on the day of iconography, during one of my first visits to a Divine Liturgy. I think that he also chose me.
God bless you!
Thank you for doing this.
You obviously put a lot of time and energy into this video. Excellent production.
Glory to God for all things!
This is an amazing video, well done! I was born and raised as an Coptic orthodox Christian and I've been trying to help my friends get a better understanding of everything, I am definitely going to send them your video. Cheers..
Brother, eastern orthodox and coptic isn't the same.
I'll recommend you to watch David Erhan on that topic. Afterwards you can dm me and we can talk about that.
@@orthoclips2k24 Just found out before you replied, I'm planning to become a catechumen soon. Thanks for your help though.
I would suggest leaving the Coptic realm, they’re a schism also.
A couple years ago, before I became orthodox, I was reading this “Bible” written by some man who claimed to have the Spirit, and doing edibles. Long story short I got possessed, saw this powerful light who I believed was Jesus, and knew immediately that calling yourself “saved” meant you believe your works here warrant your place next to that light. I knew it would be impossible to even come close to that. Shortly after this experience, I found Jay dyer and fr spyridon talking about prelest. Which then led to orthodoxy and the answers to all my questions regarding church and faith. Converting from pentecostal and knowing there’s a church who’s teaching I can submit to was easy tbh. I’ve learned more in two years than my entire life (granted the Lord gave me desire to know truth), but the hard part is my gf/family do not see what I see. But I get why all the kids I grew up with in Protestant churches are atheists now. Apostolic teaching, traditions, reverence, everything is lost.
Imo, To claim grape juice and crackers being just a symbol has had consequences that can’t even be quantified bc nothing has actual significance
Wow, that’s an incredible and wild story. Thank you for sharing! Continue to pray for your girlfriend and family and show forth fruits of repentance. Perhaps they will come and see in time.
as a baptized roman catholic this is beautiful. God bless you
I’d also like to add; yes, we know Christ is the only way to the Father. No, we don’t have to ask for Intercession. We know this. We do it because we each have our favourite Saints whom we have a connection with and it feels nice to pray with them. We know we don’t have to do that, but it feels good to pray with someone who is a flawed sinner just like us and reminds us that even the biggest sinners can repent and it’s part of our tradition going back thousands of years
I am a catechumen and really feel zero connection to the saints. I want to fit in but for example, kissing the icons. I kiss them, but it just feels odd to me. I hope I'm able to conform because I do appreciate orthodoxy.
@@clbaird40 Beloved, first thing I’d say to you is you’re trying too hard. These things come naturally with time. Nobody expects you to have a Patron Saint except yourself. Christianity is lifelong commitment, so sit tight and avoid burning yourself out.
Second: Relax, breathe. It’s ok, you don’t have to “fit in” in the way that it sounds like you want to.
Third: read about the lives of the Saints. There are so many resources available for you to look into. Eventually, you’ll come across one that is a spitting image of you and that is likely to be the Saint you most connect with.
Start with the Beloved Theotokos. She’s my favourite. Ask her to bring your prayers to her Son and our God.
Welcome, beloved. It’s a journey, and be patient with yourself. Christ walks with you always. “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
@@clbaird40
The Saints are with us at every Divine Liturgy.
The empty spaces in the Nave are filled with them.
Read the life of St. Spirydon of Trimethus.
@@clbaird40i was born orthodox and felt this way too before I had the chance and time to grow in my faith (I still consider myself immature in that sense). It helps reading about them, and understanding that these are real people that lived and went through all the temptations you did, and struggled even, but that they loved Christ more that themselves. I highly recommend the book Confessions of Saint Augustine- for me it feels like having a companion, someone dear to my heart that I look up to.
As an Anglican who has felt the pull of Orthodoxy for a few years now, this was very well done and further persuades me
Glory to God!
Become Anglo-Catholic my friend. But in not the Orthodox Church is great too. Pax Christi,
* if not
Thank you for this. I recently have stumbled on to orthodoxy and things make so much more sense
Dude. 5 stars. Thanks for this effort
Great vid dude
What a beautiful story. Very familiar to my own, but it wasn't until around 30 where God literally caused miraculous occurrences, on top of my historical and biblical searching, that finally brought me to Holy Orthodoxy.
I cant wait to watch the rest of this. But it's awesome to hear others go through such a similar walk as I.
God bless you! Welcome home, my brother in Christ Jesus! I'd love to ask you some questions about your situation with your family or friends, as this was/is a very difficult issue for me.
Thank you! Most of my family has been accepting of my conversion (thankfully). I’ve even sent this series to them and it has led to fruitful conversations. In part, that’s why I made it. Same with friends - some may ask questions, but none have been particularly antagonistic about my conversion. But I understand it can be difficult in certain situations - I’ve heard the horror stories from some of my other Orthodox convert friends.
@@untoages well I am sure glad they have been open to you! Keep it up, man.
Fantastic, I was hoping you'd put all these together in one video.
Welcome home Brother!
Thank you,God bless!
Very similar to my experience. I love your channel it's been a big part of my journey.
May God bless your professor
So far very appreciative of this, hopefully something to share with westerner’s! Only 30 mins in so far.
I am Catholic and willing to convert to Orthodox
Glory to God! If you haven’t already, definitely make yourself known at your local Orthodox parish and talk to the priest.
@@untoages does orthodox believe and keep Exodus 20:8-11, the 7th day Sabbath, as the Bible shows us?
or does it bow to the papacy and pretend the 1st day is the Lord's day?
sincere question.
thanks for your time, Sir.
The Orthodox Church does not bow to the papacy; Rome is not in Communion with us, and we do not recognize the Pope's self-appointed "authority" over all other bishops. For the first 1,054 years of Christianity, there were no "denominations," only the Church, and all bishops had authority within their own sees, or areas of influence. The bishop of Rome, now referred to by Roman Papists as the Pope, was simply considered a position of honor--the first among equals. There was no historical precedent for the bishop of Rome having "authority" over any other bishops, as the structure of the Church was collegiate. The Orthodox still consider the Sabbath to be civil calendar Saturday, but our liturgical life revolves around the Divine Liturgy, which is the mini-Easter celebrated every first day (every Sunday), as it is truly a foretaste of the Kingdom in the age to come which will have no end.
@@evanrico3244 'easter' is pagan, Sir -- created by catholicism. and nothing in Scripture directs us to follow the papacy in pretending the 1st day is the Lord's day. in fact, Jesus resurrected and ascended and the NT was written decades later -- there is absolutely zero support for anyone pretending the Sabbath Command has changed.
does this church at least keep the 7th day Holy?
@@evanrico3244 you also stated that , 'there were no 'denominations', only the Church...' -- i agree. yet that church has specific criteria -- see 1 Tim 3:15 and John 14:15 -- can't be His church if you're not following these.
no sunday church follows these, Sir. and as for a 'foretaste of the kingdom' to come, see Isaiah 66:22-23
we will still be keeping Holy the 7th day Sabbath in God's Kingdom.
Thank you 🙏 God bless you brother 🙏
Thank you so much, I forwarded this to my sister and Brother who are protestants and prideful. And I can'ttalk to them because they really intimidate me.. thank you
Of course! I hope this will foster better discussions between you guys. God bless!
my protestant/baptist family lacks understanding because they don't have an ear for it.
They think intercession is idol worship , and that Orthodox are going to hell...
Read the epistle of James to them. And tell them that intercession is like them praying for someone.
And that condemning others is a sin and shows pride and wrath.
Hope that'll help you, it's really sad that there's such a devide in your family.
@@orthoclips2k24 i recently came across the "it's like paying for somebody" notion- and it appears to be the actual disposition of the Orthodox. You are asking brothers and sisters in Christ to ALSO appeal to Christ for/with you.
I do not see the Catholics as carrying the same disposition - especially when it comes to "Mommy Mary".
Great job! Made the decision this week to leave reformed/ Calvinistic church in favor of Orthodoxy. Started studying Church history and it didn’t take long to realize I had big problems and was probably in a cult. lol. Thank God for opening my eyes and heart to the true church.
Excellent presentation of the main differences between Orthodoxy and the rest
Many Many Thanks !!!!!!!
So many around the world are now turning to Orthodoxy as the true path to Jesus' teachings and a true community of Christians sharing a common value.
Glory to God ☦️
I’m grateful for my time in a Methodist church and the many great people I’ve met and the guidance they’ve given me but my heart is so stirred by orthodoxy. The lives of the saints are such incredible evidence of the God’s presence. I just want to seek Christ in his fullness
@@MichaelJones-vb3lk Visit a liturgy if you haven’t already!
A little background for some context: I found myself to be an atheist at a very young age. Around four years ago, I gave my life to Jesus Christ. I've attended a few churches over the years, and I just can't explain how I feel other than something is missing. I've fallen back into sin and have stopped attending church for some time now. I am trying to be very careful as I navigate and sort out these thoughts and look personally at myself so I am not trying to blame a certain church or doctrine.
I live in South Eastern USA. As you can imagine, all churches here are Protestant. That being said, I cannot help but to feel this pull and draw to Orthodoxy. An increasing desire to learn more and more. The history, the art, the tradition, the saints and church fathers, etc... It's all missing in Protestantism. It's all very appealing and attractive and seems to connect with me in a way I'm not able to articulate at this time. I pray God leads me to where I will flourish.
@@EthanLafferty Keep seeking! Orthodoxy is growing in America, depending on where in the southeast you are, there may be an Orthodox parish near you. Check one out sometime!
Thank you so much for this explanation, I can’t wait to go deeper learning about these things.
Glory to God!
Rock and sand. A video thats been sitting in my watch later for years. A video game that drew me to Orthodoxy's heart, Constantinople. Such a silly thing. But its time i followed these crumbs instead of forsaking them.
I have no idea how I found this video but I feel like all of my intrinsic questions or simply things that never made since as a Lutheran are being answered. Especially the "Push to be saved and then what?" Statement. I have asked myself that a thousand times...
Thank you for this.
I am serb orthodox each serb family has a saint to celebrate as well as christmas and easter Every year May 6th we have a family gathering where we acknowledge god and Pray to or saint to protect our home
The LORD bless you!!!
We care about you! You don’t need to defend so much in the beginning of your videos. I used to do it too- it’s stressful. Don’t worry about those who shouldn’t even be watching your videos. They can remove themselves since they are not of us. Bless you! Don’t feed your pearls to swine, and your time is valuable